Men's Outfits
The classic: T-shirt and dark jeansA plain white, grey or black T-shirt, dark straight-leg jeans and boots or clean trainers. It works with a biker or a cafe racer, in black or brown.
Over knitwear
A fine merino or a crew-neck sweater under a cafe racer smartens the look without making it formal. Keep the knit thin so the shoulders still sit properly.
With tailoring
A slim cafe racer or a leather blazer over a shirt and wool trousers is a good smart-casual combination. A full biker jacket usually fights with a suit — save it for denim.
Cold weather
A shearling-lined bomber or aviator over a hoodie or heavy knit, with boots. Size up if you plan to layer this heavily — see the fit guide.
Women's Outfits
With a dressA cropped or slim biker jacket over a slip dress or a floral midi dress is the best-known pairing for a reason — the contrast between hard and soft is what makes it work.
Jeans and a simple top
High-waisted jeans with a tucked-in T-shirt or bodysuit keeps the proportions right with a shorter jacket.
Instead of a blazer
A leather blazer or a clean cafe racer over tailored trousers and a knit is office-appropriate in most workplaces.
Oversized
Sizing up on purpose, or choosing an oversized cut, gives a relaxed look over a hoodie or chunky knit with straight jeans or leggings.
Black or Brown?
Black is the more versatile and the more urban — it works with every colour and reads slightly dressier. Brown is warmer and more casual, pairs naturally with denim, olive, cream and navy, and shows its patina more as it ages.What to Avoid
- Too many layers of leather: leather trousers and a leather jacket together is a strong look that is hard to pull off. Leather boots and a belt are fine.
- Bulky layers under a slim jacket: they strain the zip and distort the shoulders.
- A jacket that is too big in the shoulders: it is the one fit problem styling cannot hide.