Whether you are going on a date just to hang out with your friends at the bar or just going to a library, the one attire that goes for all of it is your leather jacket. This is one of the ultimate fashion apparel that matches many different combinations.
But do you know how it evolved? Who was the first person to wear it? We doubt it. We hardly go into the details and history of fashion. But sometimes, it is inspiring to the evolution of something amazing like a leather jacket.
So, let us walk you through the amazing evolution of leather jackets with the time in this article.
The Early History of Leather Jackets
The origin of the leather jackets is traced back to military history. Military demands both functionality and durability, and therefore the leather jacket seems to be the best option.
If we look back, the history of the jacket looks like this:
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World War I: Pilots in the fledgling aircraft often had to face extreme weather when flying at high altitudes. It was hard to cope in such environments, therefore, the US government came up with the idea of leather flight jackets also known as bomber jackets. These jackets came with added features like high collars, snug cuffs, and warm linings.
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During World War II: The bomber jacket became even more popular, representing both utility and valor. Additionally, they now had shearling linings - making it a symbol of toughness.
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During the Russian Civil War (1917-1923): Bolshevik commanders also needed leather jackets, and it was the military identity. It showed resilience at its extreme level.
Cultural Impact: From Military to Fashion
Women loved the military men already, and seeing them in a leather jacket only added to the admiration. So, any normal individual will take it as a sign to enhance their fashion. Therefore, leather jackets soon became the fashion icon.
After the war, many men brought their jackets home and wore them as regular clothing. So, slowly and gradually it became a fashion statement.
Then, in the 1950s we saw jackets getting more attention in film and media. It started with actors like Marlon Brando in THE WILD ONE and James Dean in REBEL WITHOUT A CAUSE.
The two of them were introduced to the bomber and biker jackets as a staple wardrobe for coolness and rebellion.
With time it blended into the fashion roots like it was always there. Mainly, it happened because of the durability these jackets offer to the people. One purchase lasts longer than any usual jacket.
1928- Irving Schott and the Birth of the Perfecto
The leather jacket was first introduced as a civilian fashion garment by Irving Schott. Schott employed a zipper for the front closing instead of buttons, like in military-issued coats.
His design was intended to be worn on a regular basis, with an asymmetrical, double-breasted cut that allowed riders to lean over their motorcycles without feeling restricted.
Schott dubbed the jacket the Perfecto (after his favorite cigar) and started selling it for $5.50 at a Long Island Harley Davidson dealer.
Rise of the Leather Jacket in Popular Culture
Hollywood has had a major influence on changing the history of these leather jackets, and we have examples of this.
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Marlon Brando in The Wild One (1953)
Hollywood was instrumental in bringing the leather jacket to legendary status in American culture. The leather jacket became a symbol of coolness and defiance in the 1950s, owing in large part to its portrayal in cinema.
Marlon Brando's performance of Johnny Strabler in the 1953 film "The Wild One" may be the most memorable leather jacket moment in cinematic history.
Brando's character, a motorcycle gang leader, donned a traditional Schott Perfecto jacket that embodied the spirit of youthful defiance. This film popularized the leather jacket as a must-have for America's rebellious young men.
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James Dean in Rebel Without a Cause (1955)
This jacket on the list is not made of leather, but it is a classic piece. You may recall James Dean's red windbreaker from "Rebel Without a Cause" as a symbol of rebellion and teenage culture.
McGregor designed this jacket, which has subsequently been replicated by a variety of manufacturers. The jacket's brilliant red hue portrays Dean's character's fire and ferocity, making it a memorable picture in American pop culture.
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Winona Ryder and Kate Moss (Keeping jackets relevant in the 1990s)
Ryder, known for her edgy, alternative style, was regularly in the news not only just for her work but also for her leather jacket styling. He brought versatility to the scene with modern appeal. And with the combination of leather and grunge made this a fashion garment for a new generation.
Also, at the same time, Kate Moss was the 1990s rock and roll inspiration. She was also known for her high fashion sense, and with sleek leather pieces, she looked amazing.
Musical Subcultures - another Era of Leather Jackets Fashion
The leather jacket evolved over the decades, gaining popularity among rock artists, punks, and fashionistas alike. The leather jacket evolved in the 1970s and 1980s from studded and patched punk jackets to sleek and fitted versions popular among rock royalty.
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In the 1960s and 1970s, the leather jacket gained a new cultural home in the punk and rock 'n' roll movements. Leather jackets became synonymous with anti-establishment beliefs after being adopted as part of the characteristic style of bands such as The Ramones and The Sex Pistols.
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However, it was not until the 1980s when glam rock singers Joan Jett and Debbie Harry (blondie) made the leather jacket associated with rebellious femininity. Their black leather jackets, embellished with buttons, studs, and pins, became an extension of their public identity, combining harshness with matchless class.
Subcultures:
The leather jacket adopted by the punk and rock subcultures became the universal symbol. Through the decade, musicians kept redefining the meaning of rebellion through leather jackets. Therefore, it became a core identity of individuality and self-expression. In the later days, there was also another group called the Greasers.
The greaser subculture may have started in the post-World War II era among motorcycle clubs and street gangs in the late 1940s in the United States. However, it was undoubtedly entrenched by the 1950s, when ethnic urban youth began to adopt it.
This look, which featured slick-backed hair, cuffed jeans, leather jackets, and a strong affinity with autos, became extremely popular.
Outerwear options were denim or leather jackets for most men.
Female greaser attire featured leather jackets and provocative apparel, such as tight and cropped capris and pedal pushers (which were popular at the time). If you search greasers, you will find a plethora of images of motorcyclists dressed in leather jackets.
Evolution and Reinvention of the Leather Jacket
The reinvention of the leather jackets was seen in the 1970s. This was the time when it was famous among subcultures. Seeing the polarity, designers started experimenting with different styles cysts, and also other textures. So, it was now the runway collection, too.
Later, after a decade, it started coming back. In the 1990s, the transition was in the shape of rebellion. It was the identity of the rebellious group. You can see it in modern times,s too. Moreover, it was more popular among the bikers and other gangs.
As we discussed, in this grunge culture, Kate Moss was one of the unforgettable icons.
Grunge Culture and the Leather Jacket
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The grunge movement is one of the laid-back and anti-establishment ideologies. When rebellions started their protests, the leather jacket was their symbol as most of the people wore it.
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Then, brands like Nirvana and Pearl Jam promoted thrifting store bargains and edy pieces supporting the style. They were usually worn with plain shirts, ripped jeans, and even combat boots.
It made generations reject polished fashion, and the adoption of more eddy fashion became the star.
Global Impact of Leather Jackets
The leather jacket’s fashion has now traveled from the USA to many other countries. If you look for the manufacturer, you will find countries like Russia. In a civil war, the very same leather jackets became a symbol of authority and were later embraced by the European rock gangs.
What made it this special? Well, if you see the durability and the protection a leather jacket offers, it is timeless. With time, designers recognized the need among people and started blending it into the daily styles, too.
Conclusion
Now, in these modern times, the leather jacket is not just a style choice for motorcyclists but also famous among men and women from all industries. Be it a date or a hangout day with friends, both men and women love to style with a leather jacket. Even if you see a teenager, they love the leather jacket for their biking rides or even for a library visit.
If you are one of the enthusiasts looking for original leather jackets, FMCo NY has the best collection along with the accessories for you. Shop for the best now and continue the inspiring history to shine.
