Should You Wear a Jacket Today? When and How to Sport a Leather, Denim 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 day, though, you’re one of the millions wondering: Should I wear a jacket today? Unsurprisingly, this is such a common question that there’s even a Do I Need A Jacket? website, solely dedicated to settling that conundrum. 

In other blog articles on our Gentleman’s Guide, we’ve talked all about how and when to wear a blazer, a 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. Specifically, we’ll focus on the leather, denim, and bomber jackets. Let’s get into it!

At What Temperature Should You Wear a Jacket?

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

• Warm Weather (65°F+): No jacket, festive jacket
  Blazer, sport coat, madras jacket, linen jacket, seersucker jacket

• Cool Weather (50-65°F): Light jacket
  Blazer, sport coat, denim jacket, leather jacket, bomber jacket, windbreaker, trench coat

• Cold Weather (32-50°F): Medium-weight jacket
  Wool jacket, herringbone jacket, tweed jacket, pea coat, wool overcoat
  
  
• Freezing Weather (Below 32°F): Heavy winter coat
  Parka, down jacket, wool 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 gatherings, and can be layered under a heavier coat or over a sweater or hoodie for added warmth and style. Consider these ideas for how to wear a denim jacket.

Double Denim Casual Look

• Also known as the Canadian tuxedo!
• Pair with contrasting T-shirt, jeans, and sneakers or boots
• Ensure the jean jacket and jeans are different shades to avoid a uniform look
• Accessorize with a beanie, baseball cap, or 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 trendy, relaxed 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 necessary, turn 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 out, or for slightly more formal settings. Like denim, on 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-shirt, jeans, and 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 stylish, relaxed vibe
• Combine with jeans and boots for a rugged, outdoorsy appearance

Office-Appropriate

• Choose a sleek, minimalist 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 attention, especially if it is stored for long periods of time. In warm weather, when your leather jacket will be out of sight and out of mind, hang it on a wide, padded hanger to maintain its shape. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight, which can fade and dry out the leather. If you choose to cover it, use a breathable garment bag, not a plastic cover. 

When you’re ready to wear your leather jacket again, wipe it down with a damp cloth to remove surface dirt and dust. As your jacket ages, consider 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 short, zippered jacket with a fitted or elastic waistband and cuffs, originally designed for military pilots. Some men have long had a collection of bombers in their wardrobe, and – with its recent resurgence into popularity – others may be new to the style.

Either way, the bomber jacket is an ideal light to medium layer for casual outings and sports events, especially during season transitions when the weather can be unpredictable. When lined with fleece, a bomber jacket is good for winter, too.

Casual Look

• Pair with a T-shirt or casual shirt, jeans, and sneakers for a relaxed vibe
• Accessorize with a baseball cap or beanie for added style.

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 stylish, streetwear-inspired outfit
• Pair with jeans or cargo pants and casual shoes

Caring for a Bomber Jacket

Bomber jackets come in a variety of fabrics, including denim, leather, waterproof oilcloth, and even silk – check the care label for specific cleaning instructions! As with all jackets, a bomber should be hung on a sturdy hanger to maintain its shape and kept in a cool, dry place to avoid moisture damage and odors. 

Have a favorite denim, leather, or 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!