Style Talk: The Shearling Jacket
luxurious and definitive.
Shot ON LOCATION in BROOKLYN, NEW YORK.
Photography, SIMI VIJAY
Styling, Igee Okafor
The shearling jacket can be seen as a controversial piece within the menswear community.
While its unique and jagged features are characteristics some enthusiasts find refreshing, compared to the squeaky clean reputation traditional menswear styles embody, other criticisms find that various options can be difficult to pull off sartorially. Not to mention, its lofty price points and vast silhouettes.
In consideration of the critiques, having owned a few shearling jackets myself for the last four years, I reckon the piece is worth the spend if you’re someone who enjoys a bit of functionality and risk in your personal style. While I don’t consider the shearling jacket an essential, I find it to be just as utilitarian as it is luxurious and definitive.
It’s a personal preference. The value lies in the softness of the shearling serving as a vessel for warmth during colder months and its ability to be redefined to suit modern taste.
When it comes to pulling off styling, it can be very tricky. On one hand, the piece seems to have a more casual affiliation so in a way, anything goes. Since most jackets are a bit more voluminous, running the risk of looking bulky, I suggest prioritizing styling with thinner clothing items.
My personal preferences see more tonal looks that feel more outdoorsy or semi casual. Layer the jacket with a denim on denim look with boots or opt for a more sportif look like I’ve done with the jeans and sneakers.
GET THE LOOK:
RALPH LAUREN
CARL F. BUCHERER
