The Perfecto is widely regarded as the original black leather biker jacket. It was created in 1928 by the Schott Brothers of New York City, at the request of a Harley-Davidson motorcycle distributor. The Perfecto’s design derives from the black leather jackets of German World War I aviators, but each design element was customized for motorcycle riders: the button fasteners of early military jackets were replaced with more secure, yet accessible, chrome snaps and zippers; the waist was cropped to facilitate freedom of movement while riding; and a buckled belt and asymmetrical, zipper front were added to protect the wearer from the wind. The well-engineered construction of the Perfecto established it as the archetypal biker jacket, destined to become an inspiration to motorcyclists and fashion designers alike.
Schott Perfecto Jacket
