











I've said before that a leather jacket is one of those investment pieces - one that might cost a fortune right now but the mileage they provide more than make up for their high cost in the long run. I've been on the look out for leather jackets on and off for the past couple of months and I am holding out for the perfect one. 











You know the saying - perception is everything. Whether or not it's the truth, that's another matter. Which explains why I am falling for this two-tone jacket. The contrast of wool and silk is done with the right touch of panache that this isn't simply just a sport jacket anymore.


























I love details. I am a sucker for details and I especially love it when all the details on a piece of clothing are in sync harmoniously. Just like how they are on this wonderful jacket.
I am really falling for this stylish piece. The waxed denim outer gives off a cool vibe that will work all year around. I recently bought a pair of Karl Lagerfeld jeans that were waxed and I love the slight, very subtle sheen and effect - great for both night and day.
The military styling of this jacket adds to the desirability of this piece and like its name suggests, this jacket looks like it belongs on the back of a Secret Service agent. The zipper detail at the collar is one of my favorite spots on this jacket lending a sexy, utility feel. The cross-over fabric detail at the seams is another favorite detail of mine lending a subtle, blended effect that those who notice will appreciate.
The chest pockets makes this a useful companion for traveling too - ample space to hold your essentials. But my favorite thing about this is its amazing price. at US$179, this is a steal!
Get the
Shades of Greige Agency M-65 Jacket
for US$179 at Tobi.
I wrote about this wonderful jacket last July, and even tried it on in the store a couple of times (they, sadly, didn't have my size left) and it looks like Mr Margiela decided to release it again in a fresher shade of grey (still loving grey!) and with slight improvements.
This light grey will look stunning with most solid colors and I am loving the new, improved banded collar that adds a dash of detail to this already cool jacket. The two slanted zip compartments with double zippers (another subtle detail worth loving) open to two slot pockets for easy access to your daily necessities.
The zip closure at each cuffs provides a rocker-chic vibe when left unzipped that will resonate and add an edge to whatever you're wearing. This classic piece doesn't come cheap but it will be a good, solid investment.
Get this for US$2475 at eLUXURY.
Sale periods are a great way to buy pieces at discounted prices for the upcoming seasons. Since here at Style Flavors, we don't believe in following trends or investing too much in throw-away pieces, the selected pieces we buy during sale periods are ones that will be relevant for years and years to come.
This sack jacket from Rag & Bone is one such piece. I am so drawn to its clean lines and unfussy silhouette. This button up jacket with side seam pockets is both cool and stylish. Pair this with jeans and pants, sneakers or lace-ups, this is one item that will take you from the cooler summer nights to the middle of Fall. The stand up collar adds a dash of sophistication that will be much appreciated on a night on the town.
This is one piece I can't wait to own. Get this for US$525 $393 at Tobi.
Here at Style Flavors, we appreciate exquisite pieces that stand out and make great statements. However, sometimes too much is really too much.
Just like this tuxedo jacket from Dolce & Gabanna. This jacket with its hand painted black and white floral motif would be beautiful if it were on canvas. But on a tuxedo jacket? It just looks like an overkill. I can't imagine where you would wear this to except to an Asian wedding where it will be appreciated by some and might just get you on the best dressed list for the night. But it's not going to get you any style points.
How much mileage can you possibly get out of a piece like this? You wear it once and everyone will remember it and if you keep wearing it, it stops becoming a novelty and starts being an eyesore.
And in these times, do you really want such pieces? Find this for US$4,995 at Bergdorf Goodman.

Classics like a crisp white shirt or a well-fitted blazer never go out of style and seasons after seasons, designers try to reinterpret and put fresh spins on these classics. Sometimes, they fail but other times, they succeed and make you want to take a closer look.
This short trench from Martin Margiela did just that for me. It stayed true to the classic shape and vibe while proudly displaying its modern tone. The shorter length would be perfect for those who want the look of a trench without the weight. This great coat gives a casual, chilled-out vibe when worn unbuttoned and would hit all the right notes on a cool, summer night. Simply button it up for a more dressed-up look when the mood/occasion hits and you're good to go.
The fabric gives off a subtle sheen while the ventilated back provides a useful outlet for freshness. I am digging the belted bands along the hem and cuffs - they add a dash of cool detail that won't go unnoticed.
This would be a fantastic addition to your 2009 wardrobe and it can be found at eLUXURY for US$1545.
There are some colors that work universally on most everyone - black, white, blue and some other colors that work best on some individuals - green, pink. Then there are colors that I don't think will flatter anyone like camel and mustard.
Camel and mustard tone pieces invoke a vibe of cheap, tacky and ill-fitting. This piece from Dolce & Gabanna does just that. The color itself is a big turn off and given what this coat was made for (and the season it was made to be worn), it is also extremely unflattering.
The lamb shearling trim is nice luxurious touch but the love ends there. And at US$2084.21, there are a lot of other things/services that can be bought that will evoke more pleasure than this ever would.
Find this at Diabro.

I am a huge fan of layering and as such, winter is my favorite season after summer. And unlike summer, I don't have to think about sweating under my layers. An overcoat adds a dash of formality to your already dapper suit and also your casual shirt and jeans combo.
This sleek black overcoat from Dolce & Gabanna will be good company in your winter wardrobe. I am loving its clean detailed lines and although in general, I do not like loud details - I find that the asymmetric zip complements the overall quiet tone of this coat.
I am also a fan of its welt chest pockets - a chic way to keep your hands toasty. The open spread collar gives a sophisticated tailored look and I personally like it spreads open to reveal a hint of your shirt underneath. A great way to play with colors.
Get this for US$2310 at Neiman Marcus.
I love detail especially unique ones. So my curiosity was piqued when I came across the name of this Dior jacket. When I think supply jackets, I think huge and multiple pockets, durability and quilted nylon? Something baggy and puffy. One that would withstand beating and weight.
This piece has all the trappings of a regular Dior Homme jacket; the fit, the beautiful rear yoke paneling and the tailored silhouette.
It's also got something extra - a bullet holster for 6 rounds of your shotgun? It's unique and slightly interesting but I don't think most individuals who wear Dior Homme would shoot game and rabbit.
It's seems like an unnecessary detail - although, it would be great for transporting those test-tube shots in the club. Or for your pens and pencils when you're heading into the examination hall. I could go on but I don't get this extra detail.
And this doesn't look like it would respond well to an outdoor beating! Find this for US$1918.37 at Diabro.
A sharp, fitted, detail oriented jacket can easily jazz up a lazy Fall day ensemble. It'll take you through both dress down and up days seamlessly.
Look at how cool and beautiful this Margiela piece is. Its arched flap pockets provide a unique origami detail while maintaining its function (it is big and deep enough to store your daily essentials).
The button paneling on the back of a poorly constructed jacket would lead to puffiness and an unflattering bloated-ness. However, on this jacket, it only serves to increase the sleek aesthetic as do its side zip and buttoned cuffs.
You can wear this year after year and it will still look relevant and fresh and at the end of the day, don't we all want such mileage out of everything we own?
Get this for US$1018.37 at Diabro.

We've not been very kind to jackets with fur (real or faux) trimmings on their collars because generally, they either look ridiculous or unnecessary. The only reason we could think of why unsightly trims would be adorned on collars was that design houses could get off charging more for said piece.
This is how you do fur trimmings. Subtle, blended and cohesive. The faux fur trimmings on this jacket don't stand out in a negative fashion but rather serve to be a silent point (aka My neck was screaming for warmth).
The 2 flap front pockets and the 2 interior pockets have zip closures so you don't have to worry about your possessions falling out when running for that cab. Speaking of pockets, there is also a rear pocket which can double up as a storage space for important documents or letters. This jacket would be great for when you need to run to Kinko's but don't want to carry a bag or to that hot neighbor 3 houses down to return mail that you might have taken stolen just to get a chance to talk to him/her.
See, we're practical like that. Everyday uses for your wardrobe pieces.
The hidden zip front adds a overall streamlined touch to this already stylish jacket. Get this for US$1545 at eLUXURY.
Leather jackets are investment pieces. Sure, they don't come cheap but you will wear yours for life. Hence, the fit and obviously, the design and attention to detail is crucial - since plonking down a 4 figure sum for an item will not give you the same returns that buying cheap stocks would (and waiting for them to go up - but that's another story altogether) given the whole economic blip.
I've been staring at this jacket for a while now and I am quite drawn to this. The 4 zipper pockets ensures you have ample space for your daily essentials. This would also make a good traveling companion and would save you the occasional hassle of carrying around a day bag.
The stand collar with a button snap tab can be undone or done according to what you're wearing that particular day. If you have a statement shirt with a eye-catching collar, un-snap the collar and lower the zip. If you're wearing something without a collar, snap and zip it up and stay toasty.
This looks like it would fit snug which is another plus point, the short hemline provides a modern vibe while the dark brown lambskin will go quite well with most every color.
Get this for US$1695 at Bergdorf Goodman.
Fall/Winter season is usually a time where you make purchases that will last you years and years. A good coat is one such purchase. If you live in a temperate country, think of all the winters and then think of how you much mileage you would get out of a good, stylish coat and there you'll have the justification of said coat's price tag.
This single-breasted wool coat from Raf Simons will keep you warm in stylish. Its clean lines and it's big but not-too-large buttons (I am not a fan of those huge attention grabbing buttons - why make them so big? Is there something you need to compensate for?) go well together.
It is the details that I am loving most about this coat. The button tab on both wrists gives a cool touch while the small belt behind the coat provides a subtle platform for detail. It is not adjustable but hey, at least it looks good!
Get this for US$1305.32 at Brown's.
A leather jacket is one of those investment pieces. Get a great one and it will serve you well for years. Not only will a leather jacket look better with age, it will also be softer and more comfortable the more you wear it. So take good care of yours - you won't regret it.
I am digging this beautiful piece from Dior Homme. Its paneled design and stitched detail is exquisite and like items from Dior Homme, this would fit like a glove, which is ultimately what you would want from a jacket with a 4 figure pricetag.
The popper fastening on this jacket ensures you don't have to fumble with a broken zip years down the road; which would be a hassle. 2 zip pockets on either side will give you the freedom to carry around your passport, documents and daily essentials. So you get both style and function.
I am loving this and I can't take my eyes off it. Throw your favorite tee on, jeans, a pair of boots and this will look rocking or wear a great shirt, tailored pants and sharp shoes.
Either way, this jacket will look amazing all year round so if you're looking to throw some cash down on a classic piece - look no further.
Get this for US$3664.59 at Browns.

Moncler has been a favorite of winter athletes since the 1960s; known for its stylish ski wear, Moncler is slowly getting the due attention it deserves. I first discovered this brand while traveling in Europe 2 years ago and I've worn a few myself. They are soft, comfortable, snug and created to protect you from harsh winters.
This limited edition jacket will not only ensure you stay toasty but also give you style points when skiing down your favorite slopes or checking out the sight on your summer vacation.
The patent sheen on this puffer jacket adds a sleek detail while the 5 pockets ensures your belongings stay dry and close to you. The cream zip with its cute orange zipper adds a fun vibe.
The popper collar fastening will your neck warm if you don't have a scarf and it also gives you the option to easily wear one with the jacket.
Get this handy jacket for US$847.09 at Browns.
I tried this gorgeous blouson on at the Balenciaga boutique in Paris and I didn't want to take it off. But sadly, they were sold out on my size. So you can imagine the hot reception it got when the Fall 08 collection hit the store.
This felt blouson was constructed beautifully; with snap button closure and contrasting seams. It was also made to serve its function; that of keeping its owner warm and chic. With two side hand-warmer pockets, it is easy to stay toasty during the colder months.
The thing I loved most about this was how amazingly it fitted. Get this in your correct size and you won't need another jacket for years.
If you look closely, you can also see how it's a tad puffed up at the mid-section and this is the result of the genius of Nicolas Ghesquiere whose keen interest in playing with shapes and silhouette never fails to excite me.
It might be a bit too heavy and thick for warmer months but come winter, this will make a stylish statement year after year.
Call your local Balenciaga boutique to see if they have it in stock.


I stopped in my tracks for a split second when I saw this exquisite jacket. The webbed design brings a chic sheen and fresh spin on the classic zip up jacket. This is one jacket that will induce double takes and looks of envy when it's on your back.
With its crisp structure and sleek silhouette, this is seriously giving me lustbumps. Available in two colors; black and cement. Both amazing but I am drawn to the cement color so much more. Check out the whole fall range at Calvin Klein Collection and here for store information.
Maison Martin Margiela is seriously giving me lustbumps. His Fall 08 collection is wearable, inspired, cool and modern. I cannot wait to go check out the whole collection in Paris.
For now, there is the world wide web. This useful pocket jacket will not only keep you warm and stylish, I am quite sure you can keep skip the day bag and live out of this jacket. With 4 generous sized pockets and two interior pockets (one with button-and-loop closure), you don't have to worry about losing your daily essentials. There is space for passports, wallets, hand cream, lip balm, maps, keys, coupons, condoms and oh, even lube! (As long as it's not Costco-sized, everything that I have mentioned will fit into this great jacket).
The thing I dig the most about this jacket is the adjustable waist belt which adds shape and contour that is usually not highlighted in men's fashion. You can also wear this without the belt for easier removal (if you're shopping or on your way to a tryst) but I would, personally, make sure that belt stays on everytime I wear this. The adjustable belt details is also present on the collar which only adds to the uniqueness that is often associated with Maison Martin's designs.
This 100% Polyurethane jacket is going for US$1395 at eLUXURY.
This rocking leather jacket from Martin Margiela is giving me lustbumps. They are like goosebumps but instead of being triggered during fear or cold, they get released when I see an item such as this. Lust and want combined into a potent emotional concoction. You heard it here first.
Coming back to this, I am digging the twin front zipped pockets on this jacket and the two zippers on the start and end of the individual zipper. They are still pockets so you get functionality as well as edge. The soft premium grey leather adds a sleek, devil-may-care debonair to the whole look. Mr Margiela has also thrown in 2 zippers at the cuff to complete the look. I can't wait to go try this on. Get this for US$1,903.85 at Diabro.

This multi pocket coat from Emporio Armani's Fall collection is both utilitarian and stylish. With its two zippered breast pockets, it doesn't run the risk of looking too busy; you know how it is with some jackets that have an overload of pockets. The bottom two side pockets are roomy enough to store your daily essentials. Stay warm with the zipped knit underlay and if the crisp winds of Autumn are blowing at you like a street whore on a dateline; just button it up with the external button closure. Don't you just love double protection?
With its lean structure and ample storage space, this is one chic coat to have for Fall! Get this for US$895 at Emporio Armani.

I am drawn towards the above vests, especially the sleek grey one. I love the play on the traditional structure of a vest that closed diagonally. This would be a great addition to a modern wardrobe; wear it with your favorite shirt or tee shirt with a skinny scarf. Looking forward to having this hanging in my closet.
I am also digging the dark blue leather jacket. Mr Armani chose to have his models walk out without a shirt but I would put a shirt on before leaving the house. I find the zippers that zip up diagonally interesting and it's one of the reasons why I am drawn to this jacket. The color is great as well, I can see blue being a staple this coming Spring.
Check your local Emporio Armani store for more details and for the complete collection, head to Men Style.com.

I am really digging this Balenciaga Leather Blouson from its Fall/Winter 08 collection. This has the trappings of a blazer; a sharp, fitted blazer but in leather. Very cool. I completely admire the genius that is Nicolas Ghesquiere for taking a classic piece and turning it into something entirely inspired and modern. I can't wait to try this on in the Balenciaga boutique in Paris come September! Check out more of the Fall/Winter collection here.

This sleek jacket from Dolce & Gabanna will keep you warm, dry and trendy all at the same time. Flap front pockets with snap closure make up the most of the front of this nylon jacket. Store your wallet, passport, keys, condoms or whatever you might need on a daily basis. With tassels that adjust the fit of the hood, this is one handy jacket. It is on sale at Saks Fifth Avenue for US$586.23.
This techno fabric full length jacket from Costume National will make a chic addition to your Fall/Winter wardobe. With its cool belt attachment on the waist for a fitted look and its cuff bands, this jacket would be a stylish investment and it's on sale for US$688! The button closing will further ensure this jacket serves its actual purpose of keeping you snug. Also avaliable in Black. Get it at YOOX.
Sales are the best way to add classic pieces to your wardrobe without paying full price. With Summer beckoning, stores are clearing out past Winter inventory to make way for summer stock. Hence, it's also a good time to get pieces for the upcoming seasons at reduced prices. This perforated leather jacket is made from soft Italian lambskin. With zip pockets on chest and sides that will come in handy for passport storage and documents when making the annual skiing excursion. This two-way zip front jacket will provide a stylish shield from the cold. Get it at Saks Fifth Avenue for US$1186.50 (was US$1695).
This is the official ad picture of the safari jacket from Public School's Spring/Summer 08 that I hope to find at Barney's the next time I am in the US. It's got the classic 4 button style you would associate with a safari shirt/jacket. But the thing that caught my eye was the adjustable belt at the end of the jacket and the studs lining on both sides. It adds a modern touch to the tried and tested design of a safari jacket.
Public School was founded by Dao-Yi Chow and Maxwell Osborne; both former employees of Diddy's line (Sean John). They left to create Public School and its line of tailored streetwear. For full store listings and where to buy this safari jacket (US$300), visit Public School.