How to Wear a Waxed Motorcycle Jacket in the City Without Looking Over-Dressed

A waxed motorcycle jacket has a pretty strong personality. Put it on with heavy boots, riding trousers and a full helmet, and people will quite reasonably assume you're heading for the bike.

But take away a few of those obvious riding pieces and the same jacket can work perfectly well around town.

That's part of the appeal of Women's waxed jackets. You get the practical feel of a traditional motorcycle jacket without having to dress like you're going riding every time you leave the house.

Start With the Rest of the Outfit

The jacket doesn't need much help.

Try it with straight-leg jeans, a simple jumper or T-shirt and everyday boots. Trainers can work too, particularly with a cleaner, less traditional jacket.

The trick is not adding too many “biker” details at once. Studded belts, heavy boots, gloves and a motorcycle graphic top underneath can quickly make the whole outfit feel like a costume.

One or two classic details are usually enough.

What About Colour?

Brown, tan and darker waxed finishes are pretty easy to wear with everyday clothes.

They work well with jeans, neutral trousers and, when it's cooler, even a simple dress. The slightly worn look of waxed cotton helps too. It has a bit of character and doesn't look overly neat or dressy.

Speedwear's Havana women's jackets have that traditional feel, with a tailored cut, waxed cotton, tartan lining and storm flaps. They still look like a motorcycle jacket, obviously, but you can wear one around town without the whole outfit feeling too “biker”.

“Will it look too bulky?”

It depends on the jacket and what you're wearing underneath.

A fitted jacket over a thin top will look quite different from the same jacket over a thick jumper. Leave enough room to move, especially across the shoulders, but don't size up so much that the whole jacket loses its shape.

Let the Jacket Do Most of the Talking

You don't really need loads of accessories with a jacket like this.

A pair of jeans and a plain top can be enough, since the waxed cotton already has plenty of texture and character. Add a scarf or a simple crossbody bag if you fancy softening the look a bit for a café or a walk into town.

One other thing to remember: waxed cotton can get quite warm indoors. It might feel great outside, then you're sitting in a heated pub wondering why you brought such a heavy jacket with you.

One Important Difference to Remember

Not every waxed motorcycle jacket is protective riding gear.

Some heritage styles are made mainly for their traditional construction, weather resistance and everyday appearance and do not include armour. Speedwear's Havana range has that heritage character, while the company's more technical jackets offer certified protective features.

So, if you're riding, check the actual specifications rather than choosing based on appearance alone.

A Jacket That Can Leave the Bike Behind

That's probably the real advantage.

A good waxed motorcycle jacket doesn't have to disappear into the wardrobe once you've parked the bike. With simple clothes and a bit of restraint, it can work for a coffee run, a pub, a city walk or an ordinary day at work.

Speedwear offers Women's waxed jackets in classic styles designed with that everyday versatility in mind. Have a look at the range and choose a fit that works for both your riding and the rest of your day.