For me, a leather biker jacket has always been a wardrobe staple. I’ve had many versions over the years that have since moved on to new homes and greener pastures. I currently have a couple that I love and are in constant rotation year-round. However, the humble biker is the perfect transitional piece for spring.
You may or may not have heard, but biker jackets are a huge trend for spring/summer 2022. Last time around, we saw the likes of Alexa Chung and Jameela Jamil wearing theirs with minidresses and fedora hats—it was a simpler time. This time around, however, we’re seeing designers such as Prada and ACNE Studios showcase unique styles that are slightly rougher around the edges—a bit like me.
My go-to at the moment is a vintage men’s biker I found in a charity shop last summer. I’d highly recommend checking your local charity shops, eBay, Depop or anywhere else you can shop preloved to find your own unique piece. I’ve found a great alternative below, but I can guarantee there are thousands of preloved biker jackets just waiting to be scooped up!
MY LEATHER-JACKET PICK
This might not be preloved, but the shape and style of this leather jacket feel just as timeless and authentic as my own lived-in version.Keep scrolling to see how I'm styling mine this spring.
1. Tailored Trousers + Tank Top + Chunky Sandals
Style Notes: A pair of tailored trousers and a tank top are a failsafe spring ensemble. Pair your tailored trousers with chunky sandals for some added height without the physical and emotional pain of high heels. My trousers are part of a vintage Paul Smith men’s suit I found in another charity shop last year. Top tip: Always check the men’s section! Here I’ve done some unconventional styling and ruched my biker over my shoulders to cinch me in the waist and give a more elevated look. Perfect for picture-taking or sitting perfectly still—not so perfect for living everyday life. Feel free to wear yours like a normal human.
Shop my look:
A staple in any wardrobe.
The longline cut of this biker makes it even chicer.
This bag also comes in white and black.
Trousers you can style with everything from heels to trainers.
This time around, I opted for chunky sandals.
2. Cargo Pants + Muscle Tee + White Accessories
Style Notes: With the revival of Y2K style, cargo pants have been everywhere these past few months. If you’re like me and like to keep an eye on the latest trends but don’t like to spend tonnes of money on them, why not seek out a preloved version? Second-hand retailers such as Beyond Retro, Vinted and eBay house a plethora of vintage cargoes for great prices. Try some tonal styling with a neutral Frankie Shop muscle tee—the perfect pairing for your leather biker. White accessories add some much-needed pizzazz to prevent the look from camouflaging into the background.
Shop my look:
The silver hardware is a classic leather biker detail.
In my eyes, this is the perfect vest top.
I always get complimented on this handbag.
White sunglasses make every outfit feel more springlike.
Essential for anyone who wanted to be the fourth member of Destiny's Child in the camouflage-heavy "Survivor" video.
Always the comfiest sandals.
3. Co-ord + Backless Mules
Style Notes: Co-ord sets are another great way to style up a biker for spring and are ideal for those warm afternoons that quickly turn into chilly evenings. While this isn’t an exact co-ord—the trousers are Warehouse, and the green jacket is another second-hand find—visually it does the job. Alternatively, if you’re more into toned-down styling, you can opt for a more muted co-ord set and style it with some backless mules for casual spring vibes. Crocs will always be my mules of choice—they may not be to everyone's taste, but these DIY versions are a must-have in my wardrobe!
Another styling must-have for me are sunglasses. I recently discovered this amazing Black-owned/female-owned brand Kimeze, which specialises in opticals designed to fit Black and Brown faces and features. Obsessed.
Shop my look:
Leather outerwear has the power to elevate any outfit.
Just like my zip-up.
A set you’ll get so much wear out of.
Back at it again in my favourite sunnies.
A bright tote is a staple in my accessory line-up.
Once you’ve tried on a pair of Crocs, it’s hard to go back—they’re just so comfy.
4. Bright Printed Shirt + Denim + Colour-Block Accessories
Style Notes: You can never go wrong with a biker jacket and vintage Levi’s jeans. Well-fitting vintage Levi’s can be hard to come by these days, but don’t let that deter you from the hunt. This pair was two waist sizes too big—I had them taken in by my local tailor and haven’t taken them off since! (Figuratively, not literally.) A bright printed shirt and colourful accessories add a much-needed dose of dopamine.
Shop my look:
Such a fun print!
I just know this biker will wear beautifully with age.
If you don’t have the patience to find your second-hand pair, these will serve as a good backup.
This bag will be everywhere this summer.
These sandals come in so many cool colours.
5. Short Dress + Western Boots
Style Notes: Whilst dresses for spring may not exactly be groundbreaking, they are one of the quickest and easiest pieces to style with a biker this season. As someone who isn’t really a dress girl, I tend to gravitate toward less feminine styles, which is where this muscle dress comes in handy. The streamlined shape is flattering on most figures whilst not being too girly. Try belting it for more versatility. I’ve styled mine with some vintage Western boots and a snake-print bag for extra edge.
Shop my look:
Can you tell I’m into the muscle-tank silhouette?
Leather bikers loan themselves perfectly to all-black outfits.
As we’ve already established, I have a serious soft spot for my sleek Kimeze sunglasses.
I’m always drawn to snake prints.
Free People always creates the best Western boots.
Next Up, Spring/Summer 2022 Trends: The Only 17 Looks You Need to Know About