How to Pick a Aviator Leather Jacket for Your Body Type
Picking the right aviator leather jacket for your body type can enhance your style and ensure a comfortable fit. Here are some tips on how to choose the perfect aviator leather jacket based on your body type:
Know Your Body Type:
Slim Build:
If you have a slim or slender build, it's essential to choose a jacket that adds some bulk to your frame without overwhelming you.
Opt for a jacket with some padding or quilting, which can give the illusion of a broader chest and shoulders.
Look for styles that have ribbed cuffs and waistbands, as they can create the appearance of a more filled-out physique.
Avoid jackets that are too baggy or long, as they can make you look even slimmer. Instead, go for a tailored or slim-fit aviator jacket.
Athletic Build:
Those with an athletic physique should focus on accentuating their strong shoulders and chest.
Look for aviator jackets with well-defined shoulder seams, which can emphasize your upper body.
Styles with a V-shaped neckline or a classic collar can also draw attention to your chest.
Make sure the jacket fits comfortably in the chest and arms without being too tight.
Tall:
If you're tall, you have the advantage of being able to experiment with various lengths and styles.
Longer aviator jackets can look great on taller individuals, adding a sense of proportion and balance.
Bomber-style jackets that hit around the hip are a safe choice, but you can also consider jackets that extend slightly below the hip for a unique look.
Petite:
If you're on the shorter side, it's crucial to find a jacket that doesn't overwhelm your frame.
Opt for aviator jackets with shorter lengths, such as those that hit just above the hip. This helps create the illusion of longer legs.
Avoid jackets with excessive embellishments or oversized collars, as they can make you appear smaller.
Look for jackets with vertical details like zipper pockets, as they can elongate your silhouette.
Consider Jacket Length
For Most Body Types:
A classic aviator jacket that hits around the hip or slightly below is a versatile choice suitable for many body types.
This length provides a balanced and timeless look that works well for various occasions.
Taller Individuals:
Taller individuals have the freedom to experiment with longer jacket lengths.
Jackets that extend slightly lower than the hip can create a sense of style and uniqueness.
However, avoid extremely long jackets that may make you appear disproportionate.
Shorter Individuals:
Shorter individuals should stick to shorter jacket lengths to maintain proportion.
Jackets that hit just above or at the hip are ideal for creating a more balanced silhouette.
Overly long jackets can make you appear even shorter, so be cautious with length.
Fit is Key:
Regardless of Body Type:
A well-fitting aviator jacket is crucial for comfort and style.
The jacket should be snug but not too tight, allowing room for layering underneath during colder months.
Check the fit of the sleeves, chest, and back to ensure they complement your body shape.
Shoulder Fit:
Pay close attention to the shoulder fit, as it can significantly impact your overall appearance.
The shoulder seams of the jacket should align with your shoulders, creating a clean and tailored look.
Proper shoulder fit enhances the overall structure of the sheepskin jacket.
Slim Build:
Slim individuals should consider jackets with a slimmer cut to avoid excess fabric.
A tailored fit with minimal extra fabric in the torso and arms can create a more defined look.
Athletic Build:
Those with an athletic build can opt for jackets that offer a bit more room in the chest and arms.
This provides comfort and allows you to showcase your muscular physique without constriction.
Collar Style:
Fur-Lined Collar:
A fur-lined collar can add bulk and warmth to your aviator jacket.
It can be particularly flattering for those with a slim build, as it creates a sense of volume around the neck and shoulders.
Classic Collar:
A classic collar, without fur lining, can suit individuals with an athletic build, providing a sleek and timeless appearance.
It complements the natural lines of a well-defined chest and shoulders.
Sleeve Length:
Ensure the Right Length:
Sleeve length is a critical aspect of a well-fitting aviator jacket. The sleeves should cover your wrists and reach just above the base of your hand.
Avoid sleeves that are too short, as they can make the jacket look ill-fitting and your arms appear disproportionately long.
On the other hand, sleeves that are excessively long and extend past your hands can make you appear sloppy and may hinder your mobility.
Color Choice:
Darker Colors:
Darker colors like black, brown, deep shades of green, or navy are classic choices for aviator jackets.
These colors are universally flattering and work well for most body types. They have a slimming effect and can help create a streamlined appearance.
Darker shades are also versatile and can be easily paired with various outfits, making them a practical choice.
Taller Individuals:
Taller individuals have more flexibility in their color choices.
They can experiment with brighter or bolder colors like rich burgundy, deep red, or even metallic hues if they want to make a fashion statement.
However, it's essential to balance bright colors with the rest of your outfit to avoid looking too flashy.
Shorter Individuals:
Shorter individuals may benefit from sticking to darker shades of aviator jackets.
Dark colors create the illusion of height and make you appear taller.
While you don't have to limit yourself to dark shades, consider using brighter colors as accents through your accessories or other clothing items.
Material and Texture:
Quality of Leather:
The quality of the leather can greatly affect the overall look and feel of your aviator jacket.
Opt for high-quality leather, such as full-grain or top-grain leather, as it not only looks better but also tends to last longer.
Lower-quality leather may appear less refined and can develop signs of wear more quickly.
Texture:
The texture of the leather can influence the jacket's style and formality.
A matte or distressed finish gives the jacket a more rugged and casual appearance. It's great for everyday wear and pairs well with jeans and boots.
A glossy or polished finish adds sophistication to the jacket, making it suitable for dressier occasions. It pairs well with slacks and dress shoes.
Try Before You Buy:
Importance of Trying On:
Before purchasing an aviator jacket, it's crucial to try it on in person, if possible.
Trying it on allows you to assess the fit, comfort, and overall feel of the jacket.
Ensure that the jacket is easy to move in and that you can comfortably zip or button it up.
Check Mobility:
Move your arms, shoulders, and torso while wearing the jacket to make sure it doesn't restrict your range of motion.
Bend your arms and reach for things to ensure the sleeves and overall fit accommodate your movements.
Inspect Fit Details:
While trying on the jacket, pay attention to how it fits in the shoulders, chest, and waist. It should be snug but not constricting.
Check the length of the sleeves and jacket body to ensure they are in line with your preferences and body proportions.
Accessories and Styling:
Scarves:
Scarves are a versatile accessory that can complement your aviator jacket while adding warmth and style.
For those with a slim build, a chunky knit scarf can add bulk to your upper body, creating a more balanced look.
Taller individuals can experiment with longer scarves, while shorter individuals should opt for scarves that are proportionate to their height.
Consider matching the scarf color or pattern with other elements of your outfit to create a cohesive look.
Boots:
Boots are a classic footwear choice to pair with aviator jackets, as they add an edgy and rugged touch.
Slim individuals can opt for chunky or lace-up boots to create a more substantial appearance in the lower body.
Athletic builds can balance their physique with a variety of boot styles, including combat boots or classic leather boots.
Taller individuals can wear boots with a slightly higher shaft for added style, while shorter individuals may want to stick with ankle boots to avoid overwhelming their frame.
Hats:
Depending on your personal style, adding a hat can enhance your aviator jacket look.
A beanie or a flat cap can give your outfit a more relaxed and casual vibe.
For a bolder statement, consider a fedora or a wide-brimmed hat that complements the aviator aesthetic.
Gloves:
Leather gloves can be a practical and stylish addition to your aviator jacket ensemble, especially during colder months.
Opt for gloves that match or complement the jacket's color for a coordinated look.
Gloves with some texture or detailing can add visual interest to your outfit.
Sunglasses:
Aviator sunglasses are a natural choice to complete the aviator jacket look, as they share the same iconic design.
The right pair of aviator sunglasses can enhance your facial features and add a touch of sophistication to your style.
Jewelry:
Minimalist jewelry, such as a simple pendant necklace or a cuff bracelet, can add a subtle touch of personal style.
Keep jewelry understated to avoid overwhelming the overall look of the jacket.
Tailoring:
Why Tailoring Matters:
While many off-the-rack aviator jackets are designed to fit a broad range of body types, tailoring can make a significant difference in achieving a personalized fit.
Tailoring can ensure that the jacket contours your body in a flattering way, enhancing your silhouette.
Common Alterations:
Sleeve Length: If the sleeves are too long or short, a tailor can adjust them to the proper length.
Waist and Torso: Tailors can take in or let out the waist and torso of the jacket to achieve the desired fit.
Shoulder Fit: While it's challenging to alter shoulder fit significantly, minor adjustments can sometimes be made by a skilled tailor.
Considerations:
When buying an aviator jacket with tailoring in mind, focus on the fit in the shoulders and chest, as these are the most challenging areas to alter.
Be sure to choose a reputable tailor with experience in leather garments, as leather can be more challenging to work with than other fabrics.
Customization:
For a truly unique and perfectly fitting aviator jacket, consider going the custom-made route. This involves working with a skilled leather tailor to create a jacket tailored specifically to your body measurements and style preferences.
In conclusion, accessories and styling play a vital role in enhancing your aviator jacket look, allowing you to express your individuality and balance your body proportions. Additionally, tailoring can make a world of difference in achieving the ideal fit for your aviator leather jacket, ensuring that it flatters your body type and complements your style preferences.