Leather biker jackets are a fashion staple, offering an edgy yet effortlessly cool vibe to any outfit. Among the plethora of brands offering their rendition, Allsaints stands out for its consistently stylish and high-quality leather jackets. The Allsaints Dalby Leather Biker Jacket has become a modern classic, renowned for its minimalist design and luxurious feel. Having personally fallen for the allure of the Dalby, owning it in multiple colors, I’m excited to share an in-depth review to help you decide if this iconic piece deserves a spot in your wardrobe. Let’s delve into the details of the Dalby jacket and explore why it has garnered such a devoted following.
Design and Aesthetic: Minimalist Biker Chic
The beauty of the Allsaints Dalby leather biker jacket lies in its understated elegance. It embodies the classic biker silhouette but strips away unnecessary embellishments for a truly timeless appeal. The jacket features clean lapels that can be snapped down for a streamlined look, a subtle nod to traditional biker jacket details without being overly aggressive. Unlike jackets with bulky belts or excessive zippers, the Dalby boasts a sleek, minimalist design with just two discreet zipped pockets. This pared-back aesthetic is what sets it apart, making it incredibly versatile and easy to incorporate into various styles.
The asymmetrical zip closure is a flattering design element, creating a visually interesting line when the jacket is zipped. While I personally prefer to wear my leather jackets open, the asymmetrical zip adds a touch of classic biker edge. Overall, the design prioritizes clean lines and a refined silhouette. In a market saturated with heavily detailed biker jackets, the Dalby offers a refreshing take – a sophisticated and effortlessly chic option for those who appreciate minimalist design. It’s a jacket that speaks volumes through its simplicity and impeccable tailoring.
Alt text: Close up of the maroon Allsaints Dalby leather biker jacket showing the soft leather texture and minimal design.
Sizing and Fit: Finding Your Perfect Dalby
Navigating sizing with leather jackets, especially from brands like Allsaints known for their handmade pieces, can sometimes feel like an art rather than a science. Allsaints leather jackets, due to their artisanal nature, can exhibit slight variations in sizing. My personal experience with Allsaints jackets ranges from a UK 4 to UK 10, highlighting the importance of understanding their sizing nuances. While I’ve owned a Papin in a UK 4 (now too snug) and a Randall in the same size (fitting perfectly), my Balfern jackets, initially a UK 6, are now feeling a bit tighter. For the Dalby, I opted for a UK 8, and it proved to be the ideal choice.
The Dalby jacket is considered to run true to size. While conventional wisdom suggests sizing down in leather jackets for an initial snug fit as they stretch, the Dalby’s design and comfortable feel negate this necessity. Its relaxed yet tailored cut allows for comfortable movement and layering without feeling restrictive. Choosing your true size in the Dalby ensures a comfortable fit from the outset, allowing for effortless wear over various outfits. As you can see in the images, the UK 8 provides a perfect fit across the shoulders, arms, and waist, showcasing the jacket’s well-proportioned design. Given the handmade nature of Allsaints leather jackets, I highly recommend consulting an Allsaints size guide before purchasing to ensure you select the most suitable size for your body type.
Alt text: Woman wearing a black Allsaints Dalby leather biker jacket with a dress and boots, showcasing the jacket’s versatile style.
Color and Leather Quality: Buttery Soft Luxury
Initially, the Blush Pink Dalby leather jacket didn’t catch my eye online. The online representation seemed underwhelming, failing to capture its true beauty. However, seeing it in person in the store was a completely different experience. The soft blush pink hue instantly captivated me. Blush pink, a personal favorite alongside burgundy, is incredibly flattering, complementing various skin tones and hair colors. The color hanging on the rack was simply stunning, prompting an immediate try-on. While I briefly considered other color options, including cream and coral red, none compared to the understated elegance of the blush pink Dalby. Described as a dusty rose, light salmon, or nude-toned pastel, the color is uniquely beautiful and sophisticated. The silver hardware against the dark grey charcoal fabric lining further enhances its modern and refined aesthetic.
Beyond the captivating color, the leather quality is exceptional. The Dalby jacket is crafted from incredibly soft, buttery leather. Designed as a spring/summer piece, the leather is lightweight and thin yet remarkably supple to the touch. It feels luxurious and high-quality, a dream to wear. Although lined with polyester, the areas in contact with your skin, particularly the sleeves and exterior, are incredibly smooth and pleasant. The superior leather quality is a key factor in the Dalby’s appeal, and it’s a testament to why I’ve acquired the jacket in white, burgundy, and classic black as well – experiencing the leather firsthand is truly convincing.
Alt text: Side view of the blush pink Allsaints Dalby leather biker jacket showing the lapel and zip details, highlighting the jacket’s feminine color.
Wearability and Styling: A Versatile Wardrobe Addition
The Allsaints Dalby leather jacket, particularly in the blush pink shade, is surprisingly versatile. Its neutral undertones allow it to function almost like a nude or neutral piece in your wardrobe, effortlessly pairing with a wide range of colors and styles. It complements grey, black, white, other nudes, and light blue, making it incredibly easy to style with jeans, dresses, skirts, and more. While blush pink might initially seem like a bold choice, its muted tone acts as a sophisticated neutral, enhancing rather than overpowering outfits.
Whether you’re aiming for a casual daytime look or a more polished evening ensemble, the Dalby jacket adapts seamlessly. Throw it over a simple t-shirt and jeans for an everyday chic vibe, or drape it over a dress to add a touch of edgy sophistication. Its versatility extends across seasons too; perfect for spring and summer evenings, it can also be layered during milder autumn days. The Dalby jacket transcends trends, offering timeless style that integrates effortlessly into any wardrobe, making it a truly worthwhile investment.
Alt text: Outfit featuring a blush pink Allsaints Dalby leather biker jacket paired with shorts and sandals, demonstrating its suitability for warmer weather.
Price and Value: An Investment in Style
The price point of the Allsaints Dalby leather jacket is a pleasant surprise considering the quality and design. High-quality leather jackets often retail for upwards of £400, frequently exceeding £500 and even reaching £1000. The Dalby, with a price tag around £299, presents excellent value. While still a significant investment for a high street jacket, within the Allsaints range, it’s considered accessible. Given that Allsaints knitwear can cost around £150 and coats around £300, the Dalby’s price for its leather quality and timeless design is remarkably reasonable.
Considering its versatility, durability, and enduring style, the Dalby leather jacket is more than just a purchase; it’s an investment. Its ability to elevate countless outfits and remain a wardrobe staple for years justifies the price. For those seeking a high-quality leather biker jacket without breaking the bank, the Allsaints Dalby offers an ideal balance of luxury, style, and value.
Final Verdict: Why the Dalby Deserves a Place in Your Closet
It’s clear that the Allsaints Dalby leather jacket has won me over completely. It’s a rare piece that leaves little room for criticism. While I typically deliberate extensively before making purchases, my impulse buy of the Dalby is one I’ve never regretted. If I were to rate it, it would easily score a 9.9 out of 10 – the only minor consideration being the need for careful handling due to the soft leather, which is a characteristic of its luxurious nature rather than a flaw.
The fit, design, leather quality, and color options are all exceptional. If you’re in the market for a new leather jacket, especially for spring or summer, the Allsaints Dalby leather biker jacket comes with my highest recommendation. It’s a purchase you’re unlikely to regret. While I appreciate my Boda Skins and other Allsaints leather jackets, the Dalby holds a special place due to its unique blend of minimalist design and luxurious feel.
Pros:
- Timeless minimalist design
- Luxurious buttery soft leather
- Flattering and versatile fit
- Excellent value for money compared to other high-end leather jackets
- Available in a range of classic and seasonal colors
Cons:
- Soft leather requires careful handling to prevent scratches
Ready to add this iconic piece to your wardrobe?
Buy the Dalby Leather Jacket at Allsaints.com for £299
