Trends may come and go, but the luxurious leather jacket will forever remain a staple in any wardrobe. From dresses to dungarees, a sleek leather jacket dresses up any outfit. Although leather jackets are as versatile (and practical) as they come, many woman don’t actually own this fashion staple. And it’s largely because they find the notion of shopping for a leather jacket intimidating. So many choices, so little direction. They also worry that they aren’t stylish enough to pull off the look. In all reality, the right leather jacket will have you looking cool while staying warm. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you shop for a leather jacket. Give yourself a budget. Keep in mind that this is one article of clothing that will last for years or even decades.

Decide from the get-go how much you want to spend. While some people are content with synthetic material, others want the real deal. If you want genuine leather, prepare to pay the piper. Before you buy, figure out which style you want. Leather jackets are available in every length — from crops to dusters. Experiment with different jackets to determine which looks best for your body type. You want a leather jacket that’s going to flatter your figure and give you that certain je ne sais quoi. Prior to your purchase, closely examine the quality of the jacket. Look for loose seams, any cracks or other indicators that your jacket isn’t going to stand the test of time.