Biker Jackets

Biker jackets for men are a design classic, remaining a key element of the retro motorcycle look with T-shirt, shades and blue jeans. Biker jackets are also an everyday casual option for a trip to a bar or gig. Men's biker jackets range from classic to contemporary with styles including the simple black leather version with distressed finish and zipped chest pocket or a studded, multicolored designer punk style jacket. The Stylight site showcases various biker jackets for men.

From James Dean to YSL: Keep It Cool In A Biker Jacket

Biker jackets are a casual style staple that have stood the test of time since their initial popularity spread in the mid-1950s. The distinctive style has served as the calling card for an array of subcultural groups and pop-culture icons, alike, including: American teenagers of the 1950s, members of the 1970s-1980s punk movement, and pop stars like Michael Jackson and Prince, among others.

The biker jacket remains relevant today and is an edgy alternative to the denim jacket or blazer. Discover the history of this enduring style and find the contemporary iteration that best suits you.

Teenage Cool

Thanks to the aura of “cool” portrayed by lead actors Marlon Brando and James Dean in their films The Wild One (1953) and Rebel Without A Cause (1955), the biker jacket became a symbol for the burgeoning youth movement in America. It was during this movement that the term “teenager” was coined and the biker jacket came to be an identifiable piece of youth culture.

Punk Rockin’

With the emergence of the punk rock sound via The Ramones and other bands, the accompanying punk style movement of the 1970s-1980s took hold in both the U.S. and the U.K. In addition to spiked and dyed hair, fishnet clothing, and numerous facial piercings, the biker jacket took on an even edgier role than that of its origin.

Pop Star Royale

Michael Jackson’s red and black iteration, which he donned in the music video for “Thriller” (1982), remains one of the most identifiable biker jackets in the history of western popular culture. Likewise, Prince’s iridescent, purple, studded version from the 1984 Purple Rain Tour is also a memorable moment in the style’s history.

On The Runway

Hedi Slimane of Saint Laurent is one contemporary designer who continues to create collections around the biker jacket and the classically edgy aura it exudes. Its prominence in both cold-weather and warm-weather collections illustrates the biker jacket’s perennial strength as a wardrobe all-star.

The biker jacket is versatile and has been a go-to layer for decades of stylish men. Today, it remains as relevant as ever and the style options are endless.

Which biker style are you? Classic, embellished, or both?

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