The Item I Wear to Death: My AllSaints Leather Jacket
It's the edgy piece everyone needs.


In our biweekly series, editors share "the item they wear to death," whether it be a basic white tee or a super-trendy jumpsuit. Prepare yourself (and your credit card) for some guilt-free shopping.
For a long time, a leather jacket felt like a "one day" purchase for me. When I first moved to New York City, I noticed this investment coat on every street corner, the epitome of je ne sais quoi style to me. I knew I needed one to complete my new, all-black (very New York!) wardrobe. A leather jacket, however, is nerve-wracking buy: Get yours wrong–too big, too small, poor quality—and your fantasy of being an elusive cool-girl slips away (until you return it, that is).
I spent years hunting the internet for the absolute perfect one. My journey took me to clearance-price cropped motos, oversized (and overdone) versions, and statement zip-ups with way too many buckles. When I finally stumbled upon the AllSaints "estella" leather biker jacket, I realized I might just have found the one. The tailored cut and streamlined silhouette made it feel timeless, but ribbed detailing on the sleeves added a punch of edge…without being too Joan Jet. This, I decided, could be my foray into rebel-chic.
As with any investment purchase, I was nervous about taking the plunge. I wanted to be certain that the "estella" jacket was truly the one. Cue an entire year of me hesitantly hovering my mouse over the "purchase" button. Every time I got close to checking out, I would freeze up at the thought of dropping hundreds on a jacket, so I patiently watched the website, willing a sale with Jedi-like mind control.
'An outfit, featuring my beloved leather jacket, that I wear to work without fail.'
Finally, it was my chance to pounce: Black Friday 2018. My dream jacket dropped nearly 50 percent in price, and the "purchase" click never felt easier. More than a year later, I can confidently say my buy was well worth it. I wear my jacket in lieu of a blazer at the office, adding edge to otherwise buttoned-up workwear. I sport it with jeans and white sneakers for a casual Saturday brunch. I layer it over a floral dress on a crisp spring days. I layer it under a puffer coat on chilly winter nights. Some might say leather jackets are a seasonal token style, but I disagree: Styled right, my leather jacket remains a go-to any time of the year.
If you're considering adding this staple to your wardrobe, don't wait a year. Shop mine, plus other options, right now.
For more stories like this, including celebrity news, beauty and fashion advice, savvy political commentary, and fascinating features, sign up for the Marie Claire newsletter.
Stay In The Know
Get exclusive access to fashion and beauty trends, hot-off-the-press celebrity news, and more.
RELATED STORIES
Megan DiTrolio is the editor of features and special projects at Marie Claire, where she oversees all career coverage and writes and edits stories on women’s issues, politics, cultural trends, and more. In addition to editing feature stories, she programs Marie Claire’s annual Power Trip conference and Marie Claire’s Getting Down To Business Instagram Live franchise.
-
The Weekend Hobby George and Louis Are Currently Obsessed With
"At weekends, we go from one competition to the next," Prince William revealed.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Queen Mary Forced to Cancel Engagements Due to Illness
"Her Majesty The Queen, like many others right now, has become ill."
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
Why Princess Kate and Prince William "May Need a Referee"
Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis could get caught in the middle, according to one royal expert.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
13 Hailey Bieber Outfit Formulas Defining Her Laidback Personal Style
Copy and paste to your closet.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
8 Women Over 60 Share Their Age-Defying Fashion Wisdom
These eight style icons prove that age-appropriate fashion is a myth.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Margaret Qualley's Backless Chanel 2025 Oscars Dress Secretly Nods to 'The Substance'
The backward necklace is the cherry on top.
By Emma Childs Published
-
Embrace 2025’s Cherry Red Color Trend With These Delectable Accessories
Try the tart shade with accessories like glossy handbags and sweet slingbacks.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
I’m Copying These Street Style Outfits I Spotted at New York Fashion Week
They're low-effort and high-impact.
By Lauren Tappan Published
-
Here’s What Marie Claire Editors Are Buying for Valentine's Day
From cherry red heels to sweet-smelling candles, we're oh-so in love with these products.
By The Editors Published
-
Hailey Bieber Is the Quintessential Rich Mom Styling a Fur Coat, Massive Designer Bag, and Luxury Stroller
The Rhode Beauty founder keeps expanding her collection of mom-friendly designer bags.
By Amy Mackelden Published
-
A Classic White T-Shirt Is the Best Winter Styling Piece
This basic is the secret ingredient to creating the perfect outfit.
By Lauren Tappan Published