Forever Cool: How To Look Like A Biker

The looks that are truly timeless are often tied to subcultures, from the earthy bohemian community to the dark romance of goths. But there’s one in particular that stands out if you want a look that’s as edgy as it is functional: bikers, and their distinctively tough style.

It’s a look that has permeated from the backroads of America to the high fashion runways of Paris and Milan, and everywhere in between. Thanks to its universal popularity, you don’t need to join a gang or even learn how to ride a motorcycle to get the biker look… though it certainly doesn’t hurt!

If you want to learn how to nail this rebellious aesthetic, keep reading to find out some of the best ways to look like a biker.

To get started, it’s good to know the history and evolution of this iconic look. The original bikers of the 1950s dressed pretty differently to their contemporary counterparts, favoring simple yet practical styles like streamlined leather jackets, plain blue jeans, and basic t-shirts. Over the decades, the style diversified to include more embellishments and hardware, like gang-related patches, studs, and graphic prints.

Thanks to cult movies and TV Shows like The Wild One, Mad Max, Easy Rider, and Sons of Anarchy, the biker look has influenced mainstream fashion trends, with biker-inspired looks found in popular chain stores and upscale designer collections alike. Luxury fashion houses like Saint Laurent, Balenciaga, Alexander McQueen, and Diesel have all released biker-inspired pieces — or entire collections. It’s a look that’s always in style, whether worn by a rider or an admirer.

Old school bikers liked to keep their foundational pieces simple. Think James Dean or Marlon Brando — a basic white t-shirt and classic blue jeans make the perfect base pieces for the tough gear that you’ll be layering on.

If you want your look to feel more modern, you can choose an edgy graphic tee or hoodie instead. Patterns like skulls, eagle wings, wolves, or (of course) motorcycles are all excellent choices.

Otherwise known as biker jackets or moto jackets, a well-worn leather jacket is a biker’s staple. On a functional level, bikers opt for leather as their material of choice for outerwear thanks to its exceptional durability — few materials can withstand the impact of pavement collisions while still looking good (and offering much-needed protection, of course). And even if you’re not planning on actually riding a motorbike, a leather jacket is still great for general weather protection and longevity. It’ll protect you against wind and rain, and keep you warm in cooler temperatures. Plus, their durable nature means a good quality leather jacket will last you for years to come.