Leather Coats Are American Icons

Wearing a leather coat, for many Americans, is a rite of passage. It is a means to achieve a level of cool. It is a method for minor teenage rebellion, as leather coats are associated with biker gangs, tough men, and greasers. It is also a way that designers can convey a sense of richness and boldness. Leather has been a part of the American landscape for centuries, with early pioneers wearing nubuck and other leather coats. Cowboys later became the primary wearers of leather coats, sporting the look from a practical standpoint, because leather is a protective covering over the skin, helping keep those in dangerous lines of work free from abrasions and other injuries.

Leather morphed, over time, into a purely fashion statement. Leather is now on the runway in almost every designer's collection. Leather has an "edge" that designers look for, in part based on the roots of leather coats in the United States.

Leather coats also speak of strength. Bomber jackets were worn by aviators, our proud, and strong flying force during many wars. Other military officials also wear leather coats, and this place of honor was solidified by movie depictions of virile young military men wearing leather coats. Leather coats can make even the most timid among us seem stronger, appear to be tough and ready for action. From a heritage of explorers, cowboys, bikers, and military men, it is no wonder that if a man wants to appear rough and hardened he wears a leather coat.

For women, the tradition of leather is different. It took longer for women to find practical uses for leather coats, and so their wear doesn't have the same long lineage as leather coats for men. For women, though, it remains true that a leather coat is a symbol of strength, and rebellion. A woman in leather can look more "punk" or wild than a woman wearing another type of fabric.

Leather coats for women also give a sense of luxury. Leather is an expensive product, and when one wears a leather coat that richness is evident. The more luxurious the leather itself, as in exotic, or high end leathers, the richer the look. These exotic leathers are often preferred by designers to convey a sense of exotic perfection in their designs. Movie stars wearing leather coats have also helped make them a staple of American fashion. Everyone, from Tom Cruise in Top Gun, to James Dean in his personal life, has made leather coats an icon of American fashion. Leather is found around the world, and there are notable countries where leather making is a prime art, but here in America leather has its own special place in our culture.

Leather is so important to what it means to be an American, everyone should purchase at least one leather coat in their lifetime. The good news about buying a leather coat is that the material wears well, so you can likely keep your leather coat purchase for years to come, and feel like a true American every time you slide on the supple leather garment.