You know you’re probably onto a keeper when you’ve been coveting an item for 12 months or more. Case in point, the Whistles Clean Bonded Leather Jacket. I’ve been burned in the past with expensive, splurge-worthy items that have lived rent-free in my mind for far too long, so there’s some vindication in knowing that your style senses were onto something.
I got lucky with this buy, managing to nab it during a flash sale (the Carted app is great for tracking when items do get discounted FYI). And after contemplating it for more than a year, umm-ing and ahh-ing over whether to keep it, I wanted to download whether I thought this splurge was truly worth it.
Wearing Blanca t-shirt, Whistles Clean Bonded Leather Jacket, Facade Pattern trousers (10% off with MADEMOISELLE10), Aeyde heels
Whistles Clean Bonded Leather Jacket Review
Price: $979 AUD / $605 USD
Available in three colours
The second I pulled the jacket out of the box, I knew I was in trouble. Even 20% off, it was still a very spendy purchase, and I’m almost always looking for ways to convince myself not to keep something.
The design is unusual; a shacket style but in leather – I suppose part of the draw – and the details themselves, exquisitely done. Expertly crafted. First impressions? I was struck by the quality of the leather, which was soft, sumptuous with structural integrity, but the type you know will relax to the contours of your body with wear.
With its clean lines and streamlined silhouette, it leans into the stereotypical minimalist style tropes. A placket and snap closure that conceals the gleaming silver zipper. The oversized silhouette with patch pockets adds in a touch of cool; a modern aesthetic that feels both timeless and on-trend, making it at least one version of a perfect wardrobe staple (for me).
The other thing that I was drawn to.. The clincher, really, was the longline silhouette. It can be tricky to assess where a jacket will fall online, and anything that feels a bit half-mast or cuts me off mid-hip is typically a no-go.
Sizing and Fit Notes
I typically wear a size S, and would say that the Whistles Clean Bonded Leather Jacket fits true to size for a relaxed look. If you’re someone who likes to layer, there’s ample room to layer over chunky knits while still having full range of movement; a significant plus.
That said, if you’re petite, you may like to consider sizing down, as the relaxed fit can easily overwhelm a smaller frame.
The sleeves are slightly on the longer side so this may be another consideration for sizing down. On me, they fall just above the knuckles.
Wearing COS l/s top, Everlane barrel leg jeans, Aeyde heels, Whistles Clean Bonded Leather Jacket, Oroton clutch
And the verdict is…?
Honestly, I didn’t want to like it as much as I do. It’s far exceeded my expectations; and I had an inkling it would be good as I’ve owned leather jackets from Whistles in the past. Just not this good. It has that perfect trio of style/silhouette, quality materials and craftsmanship, and comfort.
Made from 100% sheep leather, it’s no joke when I say it’s buttery soft. Perhaps my only reservation here could be that if you’re not mindful, you might expect to get the odd scratch. I’ve not had the chance to wear it for an entire season (yet…!), but so far I’ve been impressed. It is one of those items that feels very special to wear. Despite its simplicity, it elevates the mundane. Lifts a simple outfit. Which is really the power of a good item (for you).
While I don’t see this as being one of those items that can crossover into every facet of my lifestyle, the reality is that I tend to favour more relaxed silhouettes these days. At least 85% of the time. So I tend to focus my wardrobe budget accordingly. It’s practical from a layering sense, and has an insulating quality, yet doesn’t feel too heavy for a Sydney winter. Just perfect, paired with an underlayer or two. From a styling perspective, I’m finding I loving it most worn with a trouser or jean, with neutrals or no-colour colours as my base.
So was the Whistles Clean Bonded Leather Jacket worth the splurge? In my eyes… it’s a solid yes. Even better if you can score it on sale…!
