Everything You Need To Know About The Moto Jacket

Finding The Perfect Moto Jacket

A moto jacket is one of the wardrobe basics that I talk about all the time. I love a chic moto jacket and think it’s so easy to style. I also think it’s a modern, edgy piece that adds so much style to your look no matter what your age. But, you have to find the right one for your body and style. In this post, I am breaking down everything… from the fit to design, to preferred brands, to the details… so you know exactly what to shop for.

[show_shopthepost_widget id=”3676296″]

The Moto Jacket

For those of you who don’t know, the motorcycle or moto jacket is basically just an edgier take on a classic leather jacket. They usually have a shorter hem, more zippers or hardware, and are leather, faux leather, or suede. It’s important to note that anyone, AT ANY AGE, can wear a moto jacket. It’s a simple way to add edge and modernity to your wardrobe. That said, you are bombarded with options. But, in this post, I’m going to make it much easier for you to find the perfect moto. I share my favorite brands for every budget below.

Hemline & Fit

First, let’s talk about the hemline of your moto jacket. Moto jackets are usually shorter. So it should hit at or a little above your hip. There are so many styles out there now that are oversized and longer. If that’s what you’re more comfortable in, you can try an oversized moto jacket instead. But for a classic look, go with a moto jacket that hits you right at the hip. If you want to wear a moto jacket mostly with dresses, I would go with a cropped version that falls to your natural waist. Longer is better with jeans. I like mine to fall below the top of the jeans by at least two inches. If you’re tall, the oversized jacket might work better. If you’re petite, you might be able to find a cropped moto that works best on your frame.

FIT TIP: To find a moto jacket with the perfect fit, put on a top or lightweight sweater underneath to make sure you have plenty of room and it layers well. Then, raise your hands above your head. Do you feel trapped or comfortable?

You do NOT have to wear the moto jacket zipped up! You can wear it open with a top or throw on a scarf.

Design

There are so many subtle design variations on different moto jackets. You’ll see jackets with gold or silver hardware, extra zippers, gold or silver zippers, belts, collars, draped collars, etc.…

I strongly suggest that if this is your first moto jacket purchase, keep it simple! Minimal hardware = Maximum versatility. Less is more. I’d look for a moto jacket with minimal silver hardware, simple zippers, and a classic laid down collar. You should also consider fabric choice. I prefer traditional leather over suede since it’s easier to care for.

Brands

Decide what your budget is. If you’re ready to splurge on a REALLY nice leather jacket that you know you’ll wear a ton…go for a luxury leather jacket. If you don’t think you’ll wear it that often or want to spend less, I have many budget-conscious suggestions too!

Luxury: Joie, Iro, Doma, Muubaa, All Saints

[show_shopthepost_widget id=”3676289″]

Budget-Friendly: Blank NYC and Topshop

[show_shopthepost_widget id=”3676296″]

More Moto Jackets

[show_shopthepost_widget id=”3676295″]

Special Sizing

I wanted to include some size-inclusive options. Below, you’ll find brands and retailers who offer great options for petite, tall, and plus size women!

Petite: Petite Studio, White House Black Market, Asos Petite, Lane Bryant, Old Navy, J. Crew, Anthropologie, Ann Taylor, Express, Banana Republic, H&M, Loft, Topshop

Tall: Asos Tall, Old Navy, Banana Republic, Ann Taylor, J. Crew, Topshop, Lane Bryant, NYDJ

Plus Size: Eloquii, Torrid, Lane Bryant, Mango, Asos Curve, River Island, Good American, J. Crew, Loft, Nordstrom Plus Size, Forever 21 Plus + Curve

[show_shopthepost_widget id=”3676288″]

Be sure to subscribe to my newsletter and select the ‘daily‘ email option to get all of my latest posts sent directly to your inbox. Please let me know if you have any questions. And, thank you SO much for stopping by!

Photos by Josh King