Should You Wear a Jacket Today? When and How to Sport a LeatherDenim or Bomber Jacket

There’s a tipping point in every season when you know you need to reach for outerwear before you leave the house. Until that daythoughyou’re one of the millions wondering: Should I wear a jacket today? Unsurprisinglythis is such a common question that there’s even a Do I Need A Jacket? websitesolely dedicated to settling that conundrum. 

In other blog articles on our Gentleman’s Guidewe’ve talked all about how and when to wear a blazera Tweed jacket, and even a breezy Seersucker sports coat. But we haven’t addressed other popular outerwear choices - so in this article we’ll uncover some frequently asked questions about jacket weather and discuss when it’s appropriate to wear our favored staples. Specificallywe’ll focus on the leatherdenimand bomber jackets. Let’s get into it!

At What Temperature Should You Wear a Jacket?

As a general rule of thumbjacket-weather temperature is anything below 65°F. Of courseif your commute is door-to-door with minimal time in the elementsyou may be able to forego a jacket until temps dip a fair bit lower. 

• Warm Weather (65°F+): No jacketfestive jacket
  Blazersport coatmadras jacketlinen jacketseersucker jacket

• Cool Weather (50-65°F): Light jacket
  Blazersport coatdenim jacketleather jacketbomber jacketwindbreakertrench coat

• Cold Weather (32-50°F): Medium-weight jacket
  Wool jacketherringbone jackettweed jacketpea coatwool overcoat
  
  
• Freezing Weather (Below 32°F): Heavy winter coat
  Parkadown jacketwool overcoat

When & How to Wear a Denim Jacket 

A denim jacket is an excellent light layer on the cooler days and fresh evenings that come with the seasonal transitions from Summer to Fall and Spring to Summer.

It’s great for casual events and gatheringsand can be layered under a heavier coat or over a sweater or hoodie for added warmth and . Consider these ideas for how to wear a denim jacket.

Double Denim Casual Look

• Also known as the Canadian tuxedo!
• Pair with contrasting T-shirtjeansand sneakers or boots
• Ensure the jean jacket and jeans are different shades to avoid a uniform look
• Accessorize with a beaniebaseball capor in-season hat for a laid-back vibe

Smart-Casual Look

• Wear over a button-down shirt with chinos or tailored trousers
• Add loafers or casual dress shoes to elevate the look

Layered Look

• Layer over a hoodie or sweatshirt for a trendyrelaxed appearance
• Combine with joggers or jeans (avoid the same shade) and casual shoes

Caring for a Denim Jacket

Hang your denim jacket on a sturdy hanger to avoid hard-to-release creases. Wash infrequently to maintain color and shape. When necessaryturn the jacket inside out and wash in cold water with mild detergent; avoid bleach to preserve the fabric. Always air dry your denim jacket to prevent shrinkage and maintain its integrity.

When & How to Wear a Leather Jacket 

The moderate weight and warmth of a leather jacket makes it best suited for cooler weather when temperatures are between 50 and 65°F – it’s not typically a jacket you can wear year round.

It’s perfect for casual days or evenings outor for slightly more formal settings. Like denimon colder days a leather jacket is a great over or under layering option. Here are some ideas on how to wear your versatile leather jacket.

Casual Look

• Pair with a plain or graphic T-shirtjeansand boots or sneakers
• Accessorize with sunglasses or a casual scarf

Smart-Casual Look

• Wear over a button-down shirt with chinos or tailored trousers
• Opt for dress shoes or stylish boots to complete the look

Layered Look

• Layer over a hoodie or sweater for added warmth and a stylishrelaxed vibe
• Combine with jeans and boots for a ruggedoutdoorsy appearance

Office-Appropriate

• Choose a sleekminimalist leather jacket in black or dark brown
• Wear over a dress shirt and necktie with tailored trousers and dress shoes

Caring for a Leather Jacket

Leather requires special attentionespecially if it is stored for long periods of time. In warm weatherwhen your leather jacket will be out of sight and out of mindhang it on a widepadded hanger to maintain its shape. Store it in a cooldry place away from direct sunlightwhich can fade and dry out the leather. If you choose to cover ituse a breathable garment bagnot a plastic cover. 

When you’re ready to wear your leather jacket againwipe it down with a damp cloth to remove surface dirt and dust. As your jacket agesconsider using a leather cleaner and conditioner periodically to keep the leather supple and prevent cracking. Be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions for any specific cleaning recommendations. 

When and How to Wear a Bomber Jacket

A bomber jacket is a shortzippered jacket with a fitted or elastic waistband and cuffsoriginally designed for military pilots. Some men have long had a collection of bombers in their wardrobeand – with its recent resurgence into popularity – others may be new to the .

Either waythe bomber jacket is an ideal light to medium layer for casual outings and sports eventsespecially during season transitions when the weather can be unpredictable. When lined with fleecea bomber jacket is good for wintertoo.

Casual Look

• Pair with a T-shirt or casual shirtjeansand sneakers for a relaxed vibe
• Accessorize with a baseball cap or beanie for added .

Smart-Casual Look

• Wear over a button-down shirt with chinos or slim-fit trousers
• Opt for loafers or casual dress shoes to elevate the outfit

Sporty Look

• Combine with joggers or track pants and sporty sneakers
• Add a baseball cap or athletic accessories to complete the look

Layered Look

• Layer over a hoodie or lightweight sweater for a stylishstreetwear-inspired outfit
• Pair with jeans or cargo pants and casual shoes

Caring for a Bomber Jacket

Bomber jackets come in a variety of fabricsincluding denimleatherwaterproof oilclothand even silk – check the care label for specific cleaning instructions! As with all jacketsa bomber should be hung on a sturdy hanger to maintain its shape and kept in a cooldry place to avoid moisture damage and odors. 

Have a favorite denimleatheror bomber jacket in your wardrobe? Tell us the story behind your signature piece and share an inspirational look on social – #RHanauer on Facebook and Instagram!