Leather jackets have been wardrobe staples and symbols of rebel cool since the 1950s greaser era. While leather jackets come in all shapes and styles today, there is something uniquely timeless and versatile about the quilted leather jacket.

With neat rows of stitching across the front and sleeves, quilted leather jackets add texture and visual interest to any outfit. The quilted pattern also provides extra insulation for colder weather while maintaining the supple feel leather is known for.

From heritage motorcycle brands to high fashion designers, quilted leather jackets have maintained popularity across decades and been reimagined in fresh modern cuts. Even with new trends coming and going, the quilted leather jacket remains a coveted piece.

This article will delve deep into everything you need to know about finding and choosing the perfect quilted leather jacket just for you. We’ll cover the top quilted styles making waves right now, tips for selecting the ideal jacket for your needs, body type and style, and frequently asked questions to round out your quilted leather jacket education.

When you reach the end, you’ll be a certified expert ready to shop like a pro. So slip on some buttery leather gloves and get ready to school yourself in the quilt!

The Current Top 5 Quilted Leather Jackets Worth Investing In

Schott NYC The Perfecto Quilted Motorcycle Jacket

The Schott Perfecto is the OG bad boy motorcycle jacket. After making pilot jackets in the 1920s, Irving Schott designed the first leather motorcycle jacket with a zipper and iconic asymmetrical closure. It became the ultimate symbol of cool for hot shot bikers and rebels from James Dean to the Ramones.

The Perfecto is made from the finest steerhide leather with a diamond pattern quilt lining the shoulders, sleeves and back yoke. The mid-weight leather has some structure while maintaining flexibility. The collar and cuffs are ribbed for a secure fit and the zippered pockets and sleeve zips add convenient storage.

This jacket has classic rugged appeal and will only get better with age. It’s made in the USA with meticulous quality. The Perfecto fits snug in the shoulders with a tapered silhouette. Sizing down is recommended for a tight retro feel or go up a size for room to layer. Expect to pay around $1000 for this forever fashion investment.

AllSaints Dalby Biker Jacket

AllSaints adds a contemporary minimalist vibe to the classic moto jacket. The Dalby is cut from soft, supple sheepskin leather from New Zealand. It has a clean silhouette with diamond quilt stitching on the shoulders and sleeves. The collar stands tall but slim and zips can be unzipped for a relaxed fit.

This jacket feels amazing to wear in and moves beautifully. The double zip pullers and buckle cuffs add moto edge. The slim sleeves work with any outfit from streetwear to work looks. AllSaints includes a separate quilted liner for extra warmth that can be removed to transition seasons. Expect to pay $595 for this modern quilted staple.

Rag & Bone Compass Quilted Bomber Jacket

For an elevated bomber style, check out Rag & Bone’s Compass jacket. The contrast of smooth premium Italian lambskin leather and tactile quilted panels gives this jacket depth. It has a cool mix of moto and military influences with zipper accents, ribbed collar and cuffs, and flap pockets.

Rag & Bone nails fit with a tailored body, slightly cropped hem and fitted sleeves. The leather quality and craftsmanship are impeccable but it still feels laidback. This is the perfect jacket to throw on over a t-shirt and jeans on the weekend. Made in the USA and priced around $1195.

Theory Quilted Asymmetrical Moto Jacket

For a contemporary minimalist take, Theory’s quilted moto hits the mark. Made in Italy from incredibly supple lambskin, it has an asymmetric zip placket and snap collar. Diamond quilting covers the shoulders and sleeves. The slim fit is elegant and timeless.

Theory keeps details modern and sleek with matte black hardware. The merino wool lining and sleeve insets offer comfort and ease of movement. Easy to dress up or down, this jacket transcends seasonal trends. Typically priced around $995.

Levi’s Sherpa Trucker Jacket with Faux Shearling Collar

For the quintessential American denim jacket, Levi’s has you covered. This iconic Trucker style gets a cozy upgrade with a fluffy faux shearling collar and diamond quilt lining the lower sleeves. The collar adds warmth while the corded trim and lace-up sides provide shape.

Made from rigid denim for that authentic broken-in feel. The lining offers heat without bulk which maintains the signature Trucker silhouette. Affordable at around $200 but Levi’s quality remains. This jacket is perfect over hoodies or flannels for casual winter layering.

How to Find Your Perfect Quilted Leather Jacket Match

You’ve seen the best of the best, but now it’s time to find the quilted leather jacket of your dreams. Keep these key considerations in mind while shopping:

Consider Your Style and Needs

First and foremost, think about your personal style and wardrobe. Do you tend to dress more casually, like weekend jeans and t-shirts? Or is your aesthetic sleek and polished for work and nights out? Are you preppy, boho, edgy, feminine, artsy?

Your style will dictate what shapes, details and vibes call to you. Will you wear this as an everyday jacket or just occasionally? Figure out the function to narrow your options.

Details and Features

Determine what features are essentials or deal breakers for you. Would you prefer a standard moto look or bomber shape? Does it need zippered pockets or certain length sleeves? Do you always want an attached hood or removable liner? Prioritize must-haves over negligible add-ons.

Leather Quality and Lining

Examine the leather closely – you can immediately spot good quality. Opt for buttery soft leather that still has structure. Full grain leather will age gracefully compared to suede and other thinner leathers. Sheep and lambskin tend to be most supple.

A quilted jacket will only be as warm as its lining. Go for quilted polyester or wool rather than just a basic lining. The lining should also be smooth against your skin for comfort.

Stitching and Quilting

Inspect the stitching on seams and the quilted pattern. It should appear very neat and consistent without loose threads – no cut corners. The diamond or box quilt shapes should have symmetrical even lines and spacing. This attention to detail shows quality workmanship.

Brand Reputation

Seek out reputable leather brands known for excellence in leather goods. These companies have perfected their leather sourcing and construction over years. Iconic brands like Schott and Levi’s or designers like Rag & Bone and Theory are solid choices.

Fit and Sizing

Finding the right size quilted jacket for your proportions is key. Size up for a roomier relaxed fit or size down for a snugger style. Some brands fit true to size while others run large or small. Read reviews and size charts. If possible, try the exact jacket on in store.

The jacket should contour your body without pulling or restricting movement. The ideal fit also leaves room for layers underneath. Don’t hesitate to order a few sizes if needed and return what doesn’t fit.

Hardware and Zippers

The zipper is one of the most important elements, so test it out. It should glide up and down smoothly without catching or sticking. Metal hardware like snaps, buckles, grommets and zipper pulls should have some heft and not feel flimsy. This hardware withstands wear and adds edge.

Color and Versatility

A black or brown quilted jacket in standard moto or bomber style will pair well with nearly any outfit from jeans to dress pants. Neutral shades like navy, army green, gray and tan are also versatile. Statement colors or prints limit what you can wear with it.

Budget

Quality materials and construction mean most quilted leather jackets run $500 to $1000+ range. But you can shop end of season sales for discounts, especially on neutral color staples. Consignment and resale sites like TheRealReal offer deals on high end brands too.

Read Reviews

Research the brand’s site and read reviews from real customers on details like fit, quality and accuracy of color. This gives you a sense of sizing, comfort and versatility before committing. Watch out for reviewers with atypical body types or proportions that may not apply to most.

Try It On First

If at all possible, head to the store and try that jacket on! There’s no substitute for seeing the drape, shape and movement on your body. Things like sleeve length can be hard to assess otherwise. Make sure it feels comfortable and allows mobility. Trying in store also allows you easy returns or exchanges.

Vintage Style or Modern

Decide if you want a true vintage look with patina or a new modern jacket. If you want an aged effect, shop vintage and resale sites for real well-worn jackets. For a clean contemporary style, stick to current brand offerings in retail stores or online. Mixing old and new styling can look disjointed.

Return Policy

Before purchasing any apparel online, it’s wise to verify the return policy. Many brands allow returns within 30 days for unworn items, but some sales or custom pieces are final sale. Make sure you have a timeline to receive, try on, and return or exchange if needed.

Now that your quilted jacket knowledge is locked and loaded, it’s time to get shopping! Keep this criteria checklist handy as you browse. Trust your instincts when that perfect quilted jacket speaks to you. Soon you’ll be cruising in quilted style.

Frequently Asked Questions About Quilted Leather Jackets

Still hungry for more insider intel? Get familiar with the FAQs and answers to round out your education:

How should I clean and care for a quilted leather jacket?

Real leather requires special care and cleaning methods:

• Spot clean stains immediately with a gentle leather cleaner then wipe away residue. Avoid excessive rubbing.
• Use a leather conditioner every few months to moisturize. Test first on an inconspicuous spot.
• Avoid submerging leather in water or using harsh chemicals that may strip oils.
• Allow leather to air dry naturally away from direct heat or sunlight after cleaning.
• Store in a breathable garment bag, not plastic. Hanging helps maintain shape.
• Take to a specialty leather cleaner for a deep clean and conditioning 1-2 times per year.

With proper care, a quality leather jacket will last for many years.

What steps can I take to prevent damage to my quilted leather jacket?

Protect your investment by being mindful of:

• Moisture – Allow damp leather to fully dry before wearing to prevent mold or stiffness.
• Sunlight – UV rays will fade and dry out leather over time.
• Heat – Avoid placing leather near sources of high heat like radiators or fires.
• Weather – Rain and snow can stain light leathers.
• Other surfaces – Keep away from oils, chemicals, makeup, food, etc. that can transfer to leather.
• Hang up properly – Folding and wrinkling can weaken creases.
• Condition regularly – Locks in moisture so leather doesn’t dry out and crack.

Storing in a breathable dust cover or garment bag will provide protection when not wearing.

What style of quilted leather jacket is most versatile to wear?

For maximum versatility from season to season, opt for a classic moto or bomber silhouette in black, brown or navy. These styles pair well with jeans, trousers, dresses, skirts, etc for both casual everyday looks and dressier occasions.

Neutral colors allow you to mix and match across your wardrobe more freely. Avoid embellished designs or bold patterns if you want just one jacket to wear with anything.

Consider a mid-thigh length that hits near your hips for coverage and proportion. For maximum versatility, look for a zip-out quilted liner you can remove to transition the jacket through warmer weather.

What type of quilted leather jacket is most flattering for petite frames or tall/plus sizes?

Petite women will want to seek out more fitted styles cropped to the waist or hips to avoid overwhelming a smaller frame. Try a moto jacket with tab details at the waist or a bomber cut slender through the body. Avoid boxy shapes or jackets that hit below the hip.

For taller or plus size figures, opt for a jacket length that hits just below the hips to flatter and elongate. Look for quilted jackets with a touch of stretch or sizing options. Seek out brands that cater specifically to curvy figures. Details like belted waists help define shape.

The right fit is about paying attention to your unique proportions. Try different shapes and lengths to determine what complements your body type best. A professional tailor can also adjust any jacket that needs slight tweaks for the perfect custom fit.

How can I dress up a quilted leather jacket to wear with business or formal attire?

A quilted leather jacket easily transitions from daily wear to dressier occasions with the right styling:

• Pair it with a shift dress rather than jeans for dinner out.
• Layer over a silk blouse with trousers or cigarette pants.
• Choose sleek chelsea boots instead of casual sneakers.
• Offset edgy hardware with elegant jewelry and accessories.
• Select a jacket in a dark neutral color without distressing.
• Wear with a midi pencil skirt and heels for sharper lines.
• Add a blazer on top for more polish.
• Have it professionally cleaned before wearing to remove grime.

The key is balancing the casual vibe of leather with more refined fabrics, footwear and accessories.

What type of top should I wear under a quilted leather jacket?

Consider the neckline of your top first. Crew necks or mock neck styles look neat under a moto jacket’s standing collar.

For bombers, henleys, turtle necks and v-necks pair well without bunching up. The fabric of your top matters too. Cotton basics, cashmere sweaters, or silk tanks feel great next to leather.

Aim for a fitted top in a complementary color palette so the layers are streamlined. Keep the underlayer simple to let the jacket shine. Neutral tops offer the most mixing and matching power. Don’t be afraid to try dressier blouses too!

Where can I find quality quilted leather jackets at discounted prices?

Quality leather at lower prices can be found by:

• Shopping end of season sales in late winter for the biggest discounts up to 50% off.
• Browsing thrift stores and consignment shops in wealthy areas.
• Checking sites like eBay, Poshmark and TheRealReal for pre-owned pieces.
• Finding private sales on designer brand websites.
• Scouring outlet malls for past season leftovers.
• Joining brand/retailer email lists for notifications of sales and codes.
• Asking local boutiques if they ever host trunk shows or sample sales.

Be wary of cheap imitations and stick to reputable brands to ensure you get authentic leather. With some persistence, you can score designer jackets at steep markdowns this way!

How can I make a quilted leather jacket work in warm spring weather?

To get more wear through spring:

• Seek lighter, thinner leathers that won’t feel stifling like lambskin.
• Ensure the lining is also breathable like silk, rayon, or cotton.
• Wear over breezy sundresses, camis, or tanks – less layers.
• Remove inner insulated liners if the jacket allows it.
• Avoid trapping heat by going sleeveless underneath if weather permits.
• Swap heavy boots for sandals to balance the look.
• Apply a protective spray to resist new stains from rain.
• Store in a dry, well ventilated space between spring wears.

With smart styling choices you can definitely make leather work beyond winter!

What are the major differences between lambskin leather and cowhide leather?

Lambskin leather comes from young sheep, so it’s ultra soft and flexible. It has a refined, luxurious feel and drapes beautifully. Lambskin is lighter in weight. It scuffs more easily than cowhide and shows markings.

Cowhide leather comes from adult cows so it has a thicker, tougher hide. It offers more inherent structure, stiffness and durability. Cowhide ages well, developing a patina over time. It withstands abrasion and wear better than lambskin.

Choose lambskin if you desire that buttery softness and drape in your jacket. Opt for cowhide if you want something hardy that will hold its shape and stand up to regular use. Let your preferences and needs dictate which animal leather suits your quilted jacket.

How can I soften up a stiff new quilted leather jacket?

A new leather jacket starts out stiff. Here’s how to break it in:

• Wear frequently and allow your body heat to soften the leather.
• Apply a leather conditioner to infuse suppleness into the hide.
• Roll up the jacket and compress it to weaken the structure.
• Machine or hand wash gently on cold when truly dirty to maintain softness.
• Avoid over-washing, heat tools, or aggressively working the leather.
• Give it time. Natural wear and aging will gradually loosen it up.

Within several weeks of routine wear and care, that stiff jacket will start to mold perfectly to your body for a custom feel and fit. Don’t give up too soon!

Conclusion

We’ve covered everything from the elite top choices in quilted leather jackets to navigating fit, details, quality and care. You now know exactly how to shop like a pro for your dream quilted jacket to last a lifetime.

Follow this advice to seek out the brands, materials, and styles best suited to your needs. Trust the criteria that speaks to your personal taste and lifestyle. Although investment-worthy quilted leather jackets have a higher price tag, they offer outstanding value for the years of durable wear and enjoyment you’ll get. Quality over quantity is key – one exquisitely made jacket outweighs mediocre fast fashion.

Your jacket quest comes down to listening to your instincts when that just right quilted leather baby calls your name. Tune out trends and fads. This purchase is about identifying your signature style, the cut that perfectly contours to your body, the details that light you up.

With this ultimate quilted leather jacket guide under your (future quilted leather) belt, you can browse with confidence and certainty. Before you know it, you’ll be rocking quintessential cool in your custom quilted armor ready to take on anything. Now get out there, be bold, and quilted leather jacket dreams!