This Winter, You Need Bob Dylan’s Suede Jacket
A suede jacket isn’t necessarily what most people would think of throwing on when the cold snap arrives and snow piles up on the streets. Yet it’s exactly what a 21-year-old Bob Dylan slipped into for the cover for his game-changing second studio album. (I guess lumping one of the greatest songwriters in history with ‘most people’ is a stretch too far.)
“Bob chose his rumpled clothes carefully,” wrote his then girlfriend Suze Rotolo in her memoir The Freewheelin’ Time. He cared more about having “the right image” over what was “remotely suited for the weather”. You can see how the frosty air cuts through the pair in the final shots.
Six decades later, and suede is by no means a more appropriate winter material than it was back then. Yet The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan outfit – blue shirt poking out at the collar; Levi’s 551Z jeans and well-trodden work boots – is still adored, even by Gen Z (as proven by the Bob Dylan-core #OOTDs found on TikTok).
With the imminent release of Timothee Chalamet's Bob Dylan biopic, A Complete Unknown, the timing couldn’t be better to take some winter styling lessons from the legendary musician. Here's how:
What To Look For
To replicate Dylan’s style, you want to be looking for shirt-esque designs where the collar is turned over. The shade should be more auburn than chocolate brown, and if you really want to replicate the look, opt for a regular fit – but we’d recommend opting for a slightly oversized option so that you can fit thick jumpers under it.
What To Know About Suede Jackets
If you’re unfamiliar with the material, suede is a type of leather with a napped finish that can prove quite troublesome. It’s heavy and unmalleable, making it difficult to work with when creating a garment. The time and skill that goes into its creation makes it all the more special, but also means that suede usually comes at a cost. Expect to see this purchase as an investment, whether it’s a new or second-hand.
Also, you won’t be able to wear it in all weather conditions. Its lack of breathability will prove too hot for the warmer months and rain poses a real threat. Just a few droplets can can leave their mark – and Dylan rule-breaking suggests that he didn't care too much about keeping his jacket in pristine condition. Suede protectant sprays can help, and we’d strongly advise dousing your jacket in the formula before its first outing, but that won’t help if you’re wearing it out in a storm.
Where To Buy This Type Of Suede Jacket From
Considering the amount of buzz that’s around James Mangold’s A Complete Unknown, it’s hardly surprising that brand’s have made their own interpretations of Dylan staples for the season.
Massimo Dutti, Gant, Baracuta and Mr P. are all reliable brands for more down-to-earth pricing of suede jackets, but if you’re in the market for a luxury purchase, head straight to Loro Piana, Canali or Brioni.
You could look to the Levi’s capsule that has just dropped, too. The brand was a staple in Dylan’s wardrobe, so naturally A Complete Unknown’s costume designer, Arianne Phillips, worked with the denim brand on creating a collection that emulates the pieces used in the film (including the famed suede jacket).
Of course, you don’t have to buy new. There’s plenty of garms on eBay, Vestiaire Collective, Vinted and Depop that are looking for a new home. Just be wary that marks might be difficult to photograph, so it’s worth checking with the seller about its condition.
Leo Suede Jacket
Suede Chore Jacket
Suede leather jacket with patch pockets
Suede Blouson Jacket
Suede Shirt
How To Style It For Winter
If you want to make it through the season, you’re not going to be recreating Dylan’s outfit exactly. A shirt is just not warm enough. However, layer it over some thermals and you could get away with it on a sunnier, milder day.
Knits are a natural accompaniment during the winter, and the mix of wool and suede texturally are even easier on the eye. Dylan was known for his black turtlenecks, so that’s a good shout, but anything that’ll compliment the earthy tones of the jacket will do. Make sure you’re opting for 100% cashmere or wool, as those natural fabrics are more insulating than polyester.
For your bottom half, you really can’t go wrong with a pair of well-worn jeans. Keep the leg straight, and opt for faded shades of blue and black to emphasis the vintage patina of the suede jacket. If you’re bringing it out for a smarter occasion, why not pair it with some wool suit trousers (remember what I said about natural fabrics?). Block colours are best, but a pin-stripe looks just as good if you want to bring in a print.
Finally, the feet. This is a retro look, so trainers won’t look right. You need shoes made of leather, but they can be a tattered pair of boots or a slicker style of loafer.
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