SPLURGE - Yigal Azrouël Leather Jacket - $1,475

I know I shouldn't say this but...forget Phillip Lim! Remember when I told you I had found it (it being the perfect leather jacket) a couple of weeks back? Well I spoke too soon because this time, I really found it. This Yigal Azrouël piece is everything you could want in a leather jacket. It's beautifully crinkled black leather looks worn in yet refined with pockets in just the right places and a leather hood that can be rolled up into a high collar. Its adjustable zip-up sleeves are an edgy touch and it's warm as shit.

Even the sales man who rung me up (YES I DID IT, but it was a both a birthday present and two pay checks) admitted to purchasing one for himself when the fall shipment arrived a few weeks earlier, adding that he usually reserves Yigal's leathers each season because they go quick. This is really the definition of an investment piece, and I already have big plans for it this winter.

Above, find the look on the runway next to a snapshot of me after I took it home. The ironic thing is that the first leather piece I ever fell in love with was Yigal's leather from last fall (which I have posted below, even though I know it's a tease considering it's no longer available). Considering the fact that he has no formal design training, Mr. Azrouël has done an amazing job perfecting the grungy and modern look. I always enjoy supporting young designers who make their garments in America, and I highly suggest stopping by his location in the Meatpacking District to check out his other wears. Splurge.

(Yigal Azrouël, Fall/Winter 2009)