The moto look was once a sign of rebellion, but today many people are drawn to it and its cultural meaning and want to adapt it to their needs and style. This can be easily done if you are considering a few things: which pieces you want to wear and how you want to style them.
Of course, a moto look is definitely a casual one and, if done right, you don’t even need a motorcycle to rock it.
Balancing motorcycle gear and regular clothes
If you are going for a moto look, there is definitely no reason why you would not wear motorcycle gear in a casual outfit. Of course, it makes more sense if you actually do have a motorbike, but you can wear some motorcycle gear pieces even if you don’t have a bike or are not riding it on that day. The reason you can wear “some” is because most moto gear does not actually work to be worn as casual attire. For example, wearing something like a pair of Alpinestars motorcycle boots is a great choice for going for a ride, but with a casual look they might look costumey, while a cool leather jacket goes anytime. In other words, you want to convey a moto vibe and not look like you dressed up in a biker for carnival.
The moto jacket
The moto jacket is one item you can wear with an everyday outfit. It goes with jeans, it goes with boots and with many other items: from casual shirts to khakis, the moto jacket can be styled in a wide variety of ways. Many men actually worry that a motorcycle jacket might not be appropriate after 40 or so, but we say that a motorcycle jacket is not a children’s menu – it doesn’t have an age limit. Wear it confidently and you are all set. A good motorcycle jacket can mean many things: from a designer jacket that is created more for an aesthetic effect to a Scorpion motorcycle jacket that, besides the visual impact, also offers the protection you need.
Moto shirts
Motorcycle shirts or t-shirts can be worn casually with almost anything. What is great about moto shirts is that while they are quite specific in terms of references but not in an immediate obvious way, they are very versatile and can be mixed in many ways. They go very well with jeans, leather jackets, casual pants (even shorts) and, if done right, even with sneakers.
Moto pants
Protective motorcycle pants are great for when you are wearing a motorbike, but they are not as great for a casual look. If you wish to convey a moto vibe through your pants, you can appeal to a great pair of sturdy dark wash jeans or to a pair of strong leather pants. Motorcycle pants actually mean many things: from classic, protective pants to simple, more versatile ones.
Hats and accessories
We always say on AC that accessories can make or break an outfit. While it is not recommended to wear many adorning accessories when you are riding a motorcycle (always wear protective items), you can wear more moto accessories when you are not. A cool hat, bracelets and chains can all make you look like a moto guy, even if you don’t have a motorbike. Search for strong pieces: leather often works great with moto outfits, plaid is a common pattern and silver says “moto” more than gold.
The moto look is definitely a strong look and in the end it’s up to you how you want to adapt it. This is why you should know that there are many ways to wear moto gear and that you can wear these items with casual items as well. It’s up to you how you want to create a personalized approach to the look, but our general recommendation is to go for a balanced look. Being balanced always looks good and gives one a good amount of confidence.
Fraquoh and Franchomme
P.S. We want to hear from you! How do you wear moto gear? Do you ride a motorbike? How do you mix and match your moto gear on a casual day? Share your feedback, questions or thoughts in the comments below! For more articles on style, fashion tips and cultural insights, you can subscribe to Attire Club via e-mail or follow us on Facebook, Twitter or Instagram!
2 replies on “A Guide to the Moto Look (B)”
I’ll get the look down, getting a motorcycle will be harder 🙂
Not always… but we get it 😛