Leather Jacket Shoulder Strap: A Feature That Adds Character & Style

Some things just hit differently when they blend design and purpose. The leather jacket shoulder strap is one of them. 

Whether you’re someone who loves the look or you’re customizing your dream jacket, this feature deserves attention. At Leather Mate US, we create custom leather jackets and bespoke shoulder straps that aren’t just stitched to impress, but stitched to speak your style.

Here’s everything you need to know about leather jacket shoulder straps. Clean structure. No fluff. Just straight value.

What Are the Shoulder Straps on Leather Jackets For?

Those shoulder straps aren’t just for show. Technically called epaulets, they trace back to military roots. Originally used to hold gear or signal rank, today they serve both function and fashion.

In modern men’s leather jackets, epaulets help with:

• Securing bags or slings to the shoulder.
• Giving structure to soft leather around the shoulders.
• Adding an edgy, defined silhouette to the jacket.
• Reinforcing stress points on custom made leather jackets.

Most classic biker jackets, especially those made by legacy leather jacket manufacturers, include this feature as a nod to rebellion and utility.

Types of Leather Jacket Shoulder Strap Designs

Here are the styles you’re most likely to see, whether shopping for a genuine leather jacket or designing one with a custom jacket maker:

1. Classic Button Epaulets: The timeless military-style strap with a single button. Functional. Minimal. Adds a tactical finish to black leather jackets or flight-inspired styles.
2. Buckled Shoulder Straps: These come with tiny adjustable buckles. They allow more flexibility and are often used on tailored leather jackets meant for layering.
3. Snap Tab Shoulder Straps: Snaps are quicker than buttons and ideal for a sleeker profile. Great for people customizing for daily wear.
4. Decorative Stitch Straps: These straps don’t function but are stitched to appear as if they do. Ideal for style-first buyers who still want the rugged aesthetic.
5. Oversized Utility Straps: Often found on military jacket shoulder strap designs, they feature extra length, bigger buttons, and sometimes loops or clasps for actual gear. Perfect for a vintage, 90s style leather jacket feel.

Why People Customize Leather Jackets With Shoulder Straps

People love custom leather jackets because they make a statement. Straps on the shoulders aren’t an afterthought. They frame the top half, make broad shoulders broader, and balance the shape of the coat.

When done right, shoulder straps:

• Give symmetry to asymmetrical zippers.
• Make men leather jackets look more structured.
• Add edge to leather jackets for men who want rugged energy.
• Bring personality to simple designs.

If you’re designing with Leather Jackets US or any high-end custom jacket maker, make the straps part of the conversation.

What Are the Straps on Shoulders for in Military Jackets?

In true military jackets, shoulder straps held rank badges, whistles, or secured straps of rifles. In modern fashion, they still bring that same sharp, disciplined energy.

Shoulder straps on jackets today carry:

• Nostalgia for vintage uniforms.
• Functionality for people who bike or carry gear.
• Masculine confidence through sharp silhouette lines.

It’s about commanding attention without shouting. A leather jacket with straps gives that confident lift.

How to Style a Jacket With Straps on Shoulders

Here are 3 ways to pull off this feature without overdoing it:

1. Pair With Slim Layers: Since the shoulder area is visually heavier, keep what’s underneath simple. A plain tee or henley works best.
2. Stick to Solid Colors: Let the straps stand out. Too many prints can make the top look crowded. Go for a solid black leather jacket or warm brown tone.
3. Add One Bold Accessory: Boots, chain, or vintage aviator sunglasses. Don’t crowd the look with too much going on. Shoulder straps already make a statement.

What Are the Shoulder Straps on Jackets Called?

If you’re browsing or ordering from a leather jacket custom brand, use the term “epaulets.” Some brands also call them “shoulder tabs” or simply “shoulder straps.”

They appear across styles:

• Coat shoulder straps (especially in trenches and long leather coats).
• Jacket with straps on shoulders (more rugged, everyday wear).
• Shoulder strap jacket (typically in military or moto styles).

Terminology varies slightly, but they all point to the same design function.

FAQs About Leather Jacket Shoulder Straps

Do shoulder straps affect the fit of a leather jacket? 

Yes, they can give structure and visual balance. In soft leather, they reinforce shoulder areas, especially in custom made leather jackets.

Are straps only found on men’s jackets? 

Not at all. While leather jacket mens styles made it popular, many women leather jackets include strap designs for function or flair.

Are epaulets purely decorative now? 

Mostly, yes. But for bikers or travelers, they still serve a purpose. They help hold bags, camera straps, or gear in place.

Are there leather jackets with removable shoulder straps? 

Yes, especially in modular jacket designs. These allow you to shift between a casual and tactical look.

Does every jacket maker offer strap customization? 

Not all. It depends on whether they offer true custom tailoring. Brands like Leather Mate US do.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to designing or choosing a leather jacket, don’t ignore the shoulders. They shape the first impression. A jacket with shoulder straps turns plain outerwear into a personal statement. It says you’re not wearing just any leather jacket. You chose this one.

If you’re ready to go beyond basics, Leather Mate US can help build the jacket that fits your body and your style. Whether you want a classic black leather jacket, a 90 style leather jacket, or something completely yours, we make it happen.