How to Wear a Leather Jacket Over 40, 50, 60 and Look Chic
You don’t have to ride a motorcycle to wear a leather jacket. Mine’s never seen the back of a Harley, but it’s still one of the hardest-working pieces in my closet. It’s easy, it’s youthful, and it makes everything I wear feel a little more “cool”.
That said, many women have told me they start second-guessing pieces like this after a certain age. “Is this still for me?” “Am I trying too hard?” I get it. No one wants to look like they’re trying to hang on to their 20s.
But a leather jacket is not about age. It’s about how you wear it—and that’s where the magic happens. You can wear a leather jacket and make it feel like you, not someone you’re trying to be.
Quick tips to keep your look modern and flattering at any age.
- Timeless at any age: Leather jackets are stylish at 40, 50, 60, and beyond.
- Fit first: Choose modern, elegant cuts and flattering shapes that define your waist or hit just at the hip.
- Color counts: Skip harsh black if it drains you, and wear warm neutrals or rich tones like burgundy, camel, or navy for a softer, sophisticated look.
- Style it smart: Pair it with jeans, pants, dresses, or leggings for effortless chic. With the right fit and confidence, you’ll look amazing at any age.
A Few of My Favorite Leather Jacket Looks
Are Leather Jackets Still in Style After 40, 50, and 60?
Let’s get this out of the way: yes—they absolutely are!
Leather jackets for older women are more stylish than ever. They’re not about looking edgy or rebellious; they’re about confidence. A sumptuous leather or faux leather jacket adds polish, structure, and timeless style to your outfit—without feeling over-the-top.
If you’ve never found one that felt like “you,” maybe you just haven’t seen the right style yet. Or perhaps leather jackets aren’t your thing—and that’s perfectly fine too. But if you’re curious, let me show you how flattering and versatile they can be.
5 Reasons I Love Leather Jackets (and You Might Too)
1. They Give Your Outfit an Instant Edge
Like a great haircut, a leather jacket sharpens your look. Even if you’re wearing jeans and sneakers, it makes your outfit feel intentional and pulled together.
2. They Go With (Almost) Everything
From denim to dresses, trousers to skirts, leather jackets are surprisingly easy to mix and match.
3. They’re Comfortable Now
Today’s leather and faux leather jackets for mature women are soft, lightweight, and easy to wear—nothing like the stiff versions of the past.
4. You Can Wear Them Year-Round
They work in spring, Fall, and even indoors during summer. Think of them as a more polished version of a cardigan or denim jacket with a cool edge.
5. They’re a Smart Investment
One or two in flattering shades can anchor your wardrobe. Visit Saks Off 5th, Nordstrom Rack, or Dillard’s for excellent deals on high-quality leather jackets designed for women over 50.
How to Choose a Flattering Leather Jacket Over 40
- Pick Quality Over Trendy: Whether you go faux or real, focus on smooth texture, clean lines, and minimal hardware. These details elevate a jacket’s look and make it timeless.
- Fit Is Everything: Being too tight or too boxy throws off the entire outfit. You want it to skim your shape without overwhelming it. Elegant = perfect fit.
- Try Softer Colors: Black is classic, but can be harsh as we age. Experiment with colored leather.
- Choose classy cuts: A Chanel-style is more sophisticated than a heavy biker-style. Leather and faux leather jackets with clean lines are more elegant than those with busy, fussy designs.
- Look for Interesting Details: unique collars, asymmetrical zippers, or subtle textures can elevate your style without overpowering it, often making it look a little more feminine than tough.
similar jacket | similar sweater | jeans |booties
How to Style a Leather Jacket Over 40: Outfit Ideas That Work
- With Jeans: Straight-leg or wide-leg, paired with a pretty blouse or tee, and finished with ankle boots, loafers or fashionable sneakers. Easy and done.
- With Leggings: Add a long sweater and suede boots. Polished, cozy, and casual.
- With a Dress: A floral midi or wrap dress softens the leather. It’s the perfect mix.
- With a Skirt: Try a pencil or pleated skirt and a tucked-in blouse. Add your jacket and go.
- With Black Pants: Sleek and classic. A silk cami or tee with heeled boots gives it a dinner-ready edge.
- Tone-on-Tone: Match your jacket to your outfit (e.g., all camel, all navy) for an ultra-chic look.
Black Leather Jackets: How to wear one after 50
Even if black has always been your go-to, you may find it a little harsh now that you are older. As our hair and skin start to fade and wrinkles appear, softer shades tend to be more flattering. They don’t cast shadows on your face the way high contrast black does, and a bit of color goes a long way to lift your complexion.
I like to rotate between a beautiful tan, a rusty red, and my favorite—burgundy. I do wear black on occasion, but I like to pair it with a lighter or more colorful blouse or sweater. I also tend to pump up my makeup a touch to compensate. Silk scarves, which are trending this fall, can also soften the look of black leather or any colored leather.
Do I, Deb? Final Thoughts
You’re not too old for a leather jacket. I promise.
The trick is choosing one that flatters your figure, feels like you, and works with what you already own. It’s the secret to looking effortlessly chic and age-amazing with anything you wear.
If you’re concerned about looking like you are trying too hard, remember: choose a simple, elegant style of leather jacket or a softer color like brown, tan, or burgundy,etc. to bring some warmth and life to your face.
Do you already have a leather jacket you love? Are you into color like I am, or still rocking black? Leave me a comment—I’d love to know how you wear yours.
More Posts on Leather Jackets to Check Out!
- Best Leather Jacket Styles for Women Over 50
- How to Style a Brown Leather Moto Jacket
- What to Wear with a Burgundy Leather Jacket
- Chic Fall Outfts with Leather Jackets
FAQs About Wearing Leather Jackets Over 40
Can women over 50 still wear leather jackets?
Absolutely. Leather jackets are timeless. The key is choosing styles that flatter your figure, feel authentic to your style, and pair well with your wardrobe.
What color leather jacket is best for older women?
Soft neutrals, such as tan, camel, burgundy, navy, and deep green, tend to be more flattering than harsh black. They add polish without washing you out.
How should a leather jacket fit after the age of 40?
Look for a tailored fit that skims your shape without being too boxy or tight. A cropped or hip-length cut is generally most flattering and versatile. The simpler the style, the more elegant.
Can you wear a leather jacket to a dressy event?
Yes! Pair it with a midi dress or a blouse and trousers, then complete the look with heels and accessories. It’s a great way to mix edge with elegance.
Where can I find affordable leather jackets for women over 50?
Try Saks Off 5th, Nordstrom Rack, Mango, Dillard’s, and even Amazon for chic real or faux leather options that won’t break the bank.
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Where can the leather jackets be purchased? I have looked and cannot find it on your post
Hi Judy, Most times the links are under the collages/photos. Sometimes I have to use archive photos of me if I don’t have a recent one. Which jacket in particular are you looking for and I can see what I can find for you?
Years ago, I bought an Eddie Bauer leather Gasoline leather jacket. I loved it, and I wore it with everything. Unfortunately, I grew out of it. (it was a small).
I have tried to find another one but have yet to find it.
I agree with you that leather is timeless and a good investment.
I’m crazy about those smokey blue sunglasses! Who makes them?
Hi Holly, They are from Rayban. The link is here:https://amzn.to/3mvSmwv I love this shape. I wear them all the time!
You look amazing in this outfit.
Hi Deb,
I have at least five leather jackets in my closet.
On the discussion of age appropriateness, at what age is it getting to look like trying to be younger? I don’t want to look ridiculous at over 70 now. However, my style is classic with a bit of an edgy side. Otherwise, I feel matronly. Thank you for sharing.
Hi Pat, I think leather can be appropriate for over 70. My girlfriend’s mom is in her mid 70’s, and I’ve seen her wear a leather jacket, but I would go for an excellent, lightweight, soft leather and probably not black as it can look very harsh and brutal. It also depends on the style. Instead of a short-cropped moto jacket with lots of hardware, I would go for something very minimal and streamlined with almost no hardware. This jacket is sleek and sophisticated and comes in many colors. I prefer suede as we get older. It’s softer and more forgiving. It’s less harsh against aging skin and hair. In the end, it’s all about how you feel. It would help if you felt confident and “owned the look” to pull it off. I hope that helps!
I purchased several leather jackets, all different styles, at thrift stores. A super cool moto jacket, a more tailored brown croc-style leather, a classic black, and just last week, for less than $20, I found a full-length leather jacket from Stockholm. It’s beautifully made, clearly for freezing weather, and fits like a glove. You must be mindful of outdated styles when buying thrift, but unique pieces can be found.
Great idea, Tamara, because they can be expensive, and there are items in thrift shops that have hardly been worn. I see a trend in this direction – sustainable clothing!
Deborah,
I have three faux leather jackets in my closet, and I love how stylish they look; I’m over 60!
I agree that they are great transition pieces and can elevate your look.
Hugs,
Robin
I have a faux leather black jacket that I love! Thank you for Ann the styling options!
I have a black one that I love. When I wear it, I get tons of compliments!
Hi – I have had a short black foo-leather jacket for years. I just wore it to see a live performance of Murder On The Orient Express. It pairs well with a black suede pencil skirt. The theater is known for being cold, so a turtle-neck sweater worked well. Very classy.
Hi Slyvia. It sounds like you put together a very sophisticated outfit. I think turtlenecks with pencil skirts are always so classy. Audrey Hepburn made this look famous, so you are in good company!
The biggest mistake we can make as we age is to stop being true to ourselves. Those awful questions are what I mean: too young, too old? It’s time to be Goldilocks and ask ourselves, “Is this just right for me?” If you like it, it looks good on you, it works with your existing wardrobe, and it’s within your budget, then it’s just right.!
If you loved leather jackets in your youth (before the word “pleather” existed), there’s nothing wrong with traveling that road again. There may be a few sizes, styling, and color adjustments, but why not wear them?
Hi Chris, I try to show women who are 40+ like in some posts..see here:https://www.fabulousafter40.com/moto-style-jackets-that-are-perfect-for-women-over-40/. Sometimes I have to use shots from stores to offer particular clothing items, and sadly the big department stores and chains don’t use models past 25 or so. It’s very frustrating. Cheers, Deborah
I have a butt-length, black leather blazer from several years ago. It fits perfectly and is in perfect condition. I’ve worn it belted to be a bit more stylish, but the short styles seem more current. Should I shorten it?
Hi Ellensue, I don’t think altering a leather blazer is worth it. The moto-style has been trendy in the last couple of years. It’s not just a short blazer; it’s a different look. The market is flooded with them, and I think you’d be better off to find one on sale and spend the money on that than to spend the money on trying to shorten the one you have. If you dont think you will wear the one you have, why not put it on eBay?
Cheers, Deborah
Leather jackets look great! They are so versatile and can be worn over the years.
Annette | Lady of Style
I still wear my vintage Agnes B leather jacket and love it. You look great in that bright blue.
I still wear my leather jackets. I have a vintage one by Agnes B which I bought way back and still love. You look great in that color blue.
I was very disappointed when I saw your article on buying a leather jacket. I am a member of PETA, and I also read this blog, but I am very much upset that you would talk about buying leather. Never buy leather! Never kill animals for their skin! This is a terrible way to dress yourself, and look stylish. Anyone who wears leather is not a friend to animals, and does not care about the pain and suffering that an animal goes through for their skin. NEVER BUY LEATHER!
Hi Margaret,
I hear your passion, and please know that I do love animals. We all have different political views, and I’m sorry if this article offends you. I am happy to print your comment and suggest to those who do not choose to wear leather that these tips can also be applied to non-leather goods. Thanks for writing in and awakening me to other views!
That’s an item that I don’t have in my wardrobe! I’m looking forward to reading more! ♥