Leather coats for men – bold trends

Men’s fashion is constantly evolving, and men are becoming increasingly interested in this sphere, experimenting more with their style. However, this doesn’t mean they’re abandoning the classics. There are certain wardrobe staples that men truly value and have been wearing season after season. are definitely among these timeless pieces.

A floor-length, oversized leather coat is simply unbeatable. Incredibly subtle, it adds character to any outfit and catches the eye of every passerby. For some time now, it has ceased to be just the signature piece from the iconic Matrix film series and has become an essential element of fashion.

It all began during the war

The leather coat, which has won the hearts of many, has an intriguing history. It may seem like a product that has been on the market for ages, having firmly established its place in the fashion industry. While leather itself has been used in clothing production since the dawn of time, men’s leather coats in the form we know today are actually a relatively recent invention.

Its origins trace back to early 20th-century America. Invented by Americans, it was once worn during the transitional and summer seasons by drivers of open-top cars. They would put on leather, cotton, or linen coats to protect themselves from dust. Later,, it found a new purpose—adopted by pilots, although over time, for comfort, they switched to the also American and highly valued bomber jackets.

Men’s leather coats – how did they make their way to the streets?

It was all thanks to a young French designer—Yves Saint Laurent. Now associated with the brand that bears his name, he was once the creative director at the Dior fashion house. However, his collaboration with Dior ended rather quickly, as his bold designs of the 1960s were not widely appreciated at the time.

So, already working under his own name, in 1967 Laurent designed the costumes for the film starring Catherine Deneuve. The French beauty, often referred to as the first lady of French cinema, appeared in a black leather coat tied at the waist, reminiscent of a trench coat. That timeless version of the coat soon won the hearts of people all over the world.

Futuristic vibe

It all started with, but soon more film stars began appearing in public wearing leather coats. At the time, this was something completely new and unfamiliar—a true revolution in the way fashion was perceived. Dark, bold looks stood in stark contrast to the colorful, patterned clothes of the ’60s. It didn’t take long for the coat itself to become one of the most iconic and recognizable designs in fashion history.

In the second half of the 20th century, it became part of mainstream fashion

Cinematic values and leather coats for men

Lana and Lily Wachowski decided to use the leather coat as a foundation for the film’s entire aesthetic, as clothing in The Matrix is a crucial element that defines the rebellious personalities of its characters. The leather coat turned out to be perfect for this role. Combined with the iconic narrow sunglasses worn by the Matrix characters, it brought the desired atmosphere of mystery and darkness to the world of The Matrix. 

Today, with the resurgence of trends from the ’90s and early 2000s, leather coats are back in style. The autumn-winter 2018/2019 collection featured them, among others, from, and Balenciaga also showcased their own versions during Paris Fashion Week. Since then, they have remained one of the most popular trends. In a way, the leather coats worn by men in past decades now serve as inspiration for many fashion brands.

Their immense popularity among both women and men is the best proof of this. Once again, it seems that men are increasingly embracing current trends, opting not only for elegance but also for originality.

What materials do we use to make men’s leather coats?

Leather is one of the earliest raw materials used by humans. In the 19th century, the invention of the rapid chrome tanning process enabled the industrialization of leather production, and today tanners offer us an endless variety of types and colors. Cowhide is most commonly chosen for the production of leather jackets and coats.

It is relatively inexpensive and widely available on the market.. Garments made from it offer a high level of wearing comfort. From a visual perspective, it’s worth noting that jackets made from cowhide leather have a smooth texture, which makes them look elegant and stylish. The same type of leather is also a popular choice for footwear and other leather accessories.

Or maybe eco-leather?

Recently, with the rise of the animal rights movement, eco-leather—material that imitates the appearance of genuine leather—has gained prominence. Modern technology makes it possible to produce high-quality eco-leather that closely resembles natural leather not only in appearance but also in some of its properties.

Additionally, eco leather is much more resistant to water, importantly requires no maintenance, is flexible, and comes in a wide range of textures and colors. However, at this point, its biggest drawback is that, unlike natural leather, it does not allow air to pass through, which can certainly be problematic.

Why choose genuine leather?

Setting aside the visual appeal of leather clothing for a moment, let’s consider what makes its quality so exceptional. The leather used for outerwear is soft, pleasant to the touch, highly breathable, and resistant to moisture absorption. However, what truly sets this material apart is its remarkable durability. Properly cared for, natural leather will last for many years without any mechanical damage, maintaining its pristine appearance.

There’s a reason why it’s called timeless—your leather coat can truly last a lifetime. However, to make that happen, proper care is essential. The most important rule is to avoid machine washing and drying, and to protect the leather from moisture. It’s also worth investing in professional leather conditioners, which will restore its shine and freshness.

Are leather coats a women’s fashion trend?

One might think that the trend for oversized leather or faux leather coats has been completely taken over by women. However, while it’s true that stores still offer a wider selection, men are increasingly reaching for this universal blend of comfort and elegance as well. To meet the needs of their customers, brands now offer an exceptionally wide range of leather coat styles. From short designs with pockets and a Catherine Deneuve-style collar, to black, more fitted options, and even light and dark brown versions reminiscent of those seen in iconic American TV series. Undoubtedly, men now have plenty to choose from. 

Looking out onto the street, leather coats are seen mostly on relatively young men. Older men tend to opt for classic trench coats or, if they stick with leather, traditional biker jackets. Still, for many, a leather coat remains a key piece for breaking up classic outfits, or for adding an unexpected, retro vibe. This winter, all-black looks paired with heavy, chunky footwear are dominating—perfectly capturing that Matrix-inspired style. 

Questionable price?

The only thing that might be holding you back from running out to get your own leather coat right now could be the price. There’s no denying that buying a men’s leather coat can put a serious dent in your wallet. However, it’s worth considering whether this investment isn’t actually worth it. Our answer is a resounding yes. Leather coats for men are one of those wardrobe staples where it simply doesn’t pay to cut corners.

It’s much better to invest in a single, high-quality piece that you won’t have to part with after just six months. It’s a smart investment for years to come, as every new season proves that leather never goes out of style. An elegant men’s leather coat will be the perfect choice for the upcoming spring days.

Today, this is on trend!

The universal appeal of the leather coat convinces many. It’s one of those wardrobe staples that pairs perfectly with both jeans and a hoodie, as well as with a smart shirt and tailored trousers. Combining sophistication with functionality, it has quickly become.

Recently, it has also become a kind of foundation for fashion experiments. It’s safe to say that the men’s leather coat has evolved into something more than just a seasonal trend for fans of the heavy, dark Matrix aesthetic. Given their growing popularity, it’s likely they’ll remain a staple in our wardrobes for a long time to come.