Ordering my first leather jacket - a sunburst - probably Aero

[dan-dan]

Hi,

I'm really interested in a sunburst back, and I've been e-mailing with Holly from Aero. I don't really like zippers on jackets, and prefer buttons, but the sunburst on Aeros website is with a zipper and a pretty boring collar.

I kinda want something like the Aeromarine in terms of buttoning:

I e-mailed Holly about mixing it up, but do you guys think it would look awful? It would basically be the Aeromarine with the whole sunburst back and hand warmers instead of the flap pockets. I'm unsure if they are able to do that, but I e-mailed them asking.

I'm pretty set on a sunburst, and could just go with the stock model, but I kinda want it to be "the perfect" jacket, so I can change my mind on what's perfect and get another one later on thinking that's the one...

Are there any other makers who make a sunburst? Preferably with buttons, even if it's "wrong" in terms of the way they used to look like.

Alternatively a model similar to the Aeromarine.

Do anyone have an Aeromarine? Or a Sunburst? I've lurked quite a bit and saw some pictures of them. What are your thoughts? Are the buttons loosening up like they did on my old LVC where I had to sew them back after using the jacket 4-5 times.

 

[HoosierDaddy]

Not sure that the sunburst back would look good without the halfbelt .

 

[dan-dan]

Not sure that the sunburst back would look good without the halfbelt .

The halfbelt would follow - which I just realised makes the straight transfer impossible.

Have anyone had a model change from zipper to buttons?

 

[Sloan1874]

You could probably have buttons but the Sunburst is it's a completely different jacket from the Aeromarine, so I think you'd have to look at perhaps the Sea Biscuit collar, or perhaps look to the Hooch Hauler, which is a Bootlegger with buttons and a Sunburst back.

 

[dan-dan]

You could probably have buttons but the Sunburst is it's a completely different jacket from the Aeromarine, so I think you'd have to look at perhaps the Sea Biscuit collar, or perhaps look to the Hooch Hauler, which is a Bootlegger with buttons and a Sunburst back.

The sea biscuit collar is a bit too big and the moonshiner, which is the one I think you're thinking of, got too big of a collar.

I've been thinking today and a buddy of mine basically said "have fun buttoning all the buttons every time you wear it" and maybe a zipper is the way to go, after all...

 

[steve u]

Dan-dan,
I'm not trying to steer you away from Areo(Good choice).
You could look at Bill Kelso ..Archive line for Ideas.
There are several jackets with sunburst(and other) interesting backs.
Different combinations.

 

[navetsea]

you don't buttons all buttons the same way you don't zip up all the way everytime.

to me button is a lot more wearable, when you can unbutton the lower part when sitting, if one button is failing you can fix it yourself it won't make the whole jacket unwearable while waiting for repair, also fit better since it can slide around slightly. but perhaps if the main closure is button it looks weird if the pocket is having zipper.

 

[Sloan1874]

Generally, I would say with your first jacket, Aero or whatever, go for something that is flexible and wearable that fits you well. I bought a Long Half-Belt in brown FQHH, didn't mess around with the design, and it's still one of my main go to jackets when I'm heading out the door and it looks the biz, understated and cool. It's the one that if I'm in London and I go to the likes of Son of Stag, the Red Wings store or LVC, the staff immediately compliment it and ask to have a closer look.
Once you've got the first one out the way, and you're hooked on collecting these things, then you can stretch out. I currently have seven Aeros and my latest was a Wayfarer in unfinished cream Vicenza with a black cotton lining - definitely not a starter jacket!

 

[handymike]

Ask Holly about doing a sunburst back on a Maxwell!
You could also ask about an August collar which has a bit of shape. The Seabiscuit and Speedway collars are my favs, but can’t be substituted on regular jackets as they attach differently.

 

[jonesy86]

Ask Holly about doing a sunburst back on a Maxwell!
You could also ask about an August collar which has a bit of shape. The Seabiscuit and Speedway collars are my favs, but can’t be substituted on regular jackets as they attach differently.

I like that huge Seabiscuit collar too.

 

[Mawashi]

Hi,

I'm really interested in a sunburst back, and I've been e-mailing with Holly from Aero. I don't really like zippers on jackets, and prefer buttons, but the sunburst on Aeros website is with a zipper and a pretty boring collar.

I kinda want something like the Aeromarine in terms of buttoning:

I e-mailed Holly about mixing it up, but do you guys think it would look awful? It would basically be the Aeromarine with the whole sunburst back and hand warmers instead of the flap pockets. I'm unsure if they are able to do that, but I e-mailed them asking.

I'm pretty set on a sunburst, and could just go with the stock model, but I kinda want it to be "the perfect" jacket, so I can change my mind on what's perfect and get another one later on thinking that's the one...

Are there any other makers who make a sunburst? Preferably with buttons, even if it's "wrong" in terms of the way they used to look like.

Alternatively a model similar to the Aeromarine.

Do anyone have an Aeromarine? Or a Sunburst? I've lurked quite a bit and saw some pictures of them. What are your thoughts? Are the buttons loosening up like they did on my old LVC where I had to sew them back after using the jacket 4-5 times.

Dan-dan,
I'm not trying to steer you away from Areo(Good choice).
You could look at Bill Kelso ..Archive line for Ideas.
There are several jackets with sunburst(and other) interesting backs.
Different combinations.

I'm similar too in that I prefer buttons and I'm discussing the options with Holly (Aero) and Debs (Simmons) on what I want in a travel jacket.

Basically I second what the guys are saying in that if you're going to go w buttons choose a design that is build from the start w buttons like the Maxwell, Mulligan or go w a maker that can custom one with a sunburst design with buttons.
My take with the sunburst design is that it's a rather edgy style and may suit an aggressive front similar to a Rockafella but without the sweeping curved top stitch.

Good luck.

 

[NZJono]

Hi,

I'm really interested in a sunburst back, and I've been e-mailing with Holly from Aero. I don't really like zippers on jackets, and prefer buttons, but the sunburst on Aeros website is with a zipper and a pretty boring collar.

I kinda want something like the Aeromarine in terms of buttoning:

I e-mailed Holly about mixing it up, but do you guys think it would look awful? It would basically be the Aeromarine with the whole sunburst back and hand warmers instead of the flap pockets. I'm unsure if they are able to do that, but I e-mailed them asking.

I'm pretty set on a sunburst, and could just go with the stock model, but I kinda want it to be "the perfect" jacket, so I can change my mind on what's perfect and get another one later on thinking that's the one...

Are there any other makers who make a sunburst? Preferably with buttons, even if it's "wrong" in terms of the way they used to look like.

Alternatively a model similar to the Aeromarine.

Do anyone have an Aeromarine? Or a Sunburst? I've lurked quite a bit and saw some pictures of them. What are your thoughts? Are the buttons loosening up like they did on my old LVC where I had to sew them back after using the jacket 4-5 times.

Hi
I’ve got an Aeromarine which is lovely smart style, but not sure I’d use it as a travel jacket. It’s quite heavy even though it’s in battered steer, plus has a wool lining which makes its a winter jacket only.
The buttons are still quite stiff and I’ve had it for over 18 months. Pretty much worn it every day over the past couple of winters. I can’t see them coming loose in a hurry. Doing and undoing it is no problem. Not sure what i would recommend but my next Aero will be a lighter weight, probably Goat suede, and also a size smaller than the Aeromarine so less bulky and easier to travel with.

 

[dudewuttheheck]

I'm going to say that such a mix would not look good. They are two different jackets for a reason.

 

[dan-dan]

First off, thank you guys for all the input. I hope I managed to order every reply in order.

Ask Holly about doing a sunburst back on a Maxwell!
You could also ask about an August collar which has a bit of shape. The Seabiscuit and Speedway collars are my favs, but can’t be substituted on regular jackets as they attach differently.

Yeah, I looked into that. The Maxwell is a bit of "old dude" vibe to me, while the Aeromarine have a slimmer profile which makes it more attractive - to me. The Maxwell is a really cool looking one though.

Dan-dan,
I'm not trying to steer you away from Areo(Good choice).
You could look at Bill Kelso ..Archive line for Ideas.
There are several jackets with sunburst(and other) interesting backs.
Different combinations.

I took a look at that, and I got thinking. It says they are made in Greece - which is not necessarily a problem, but how do they compare to Aero, in terms of quality, for an example? Thedi does their in Greece and they are of great quality.

There were a few really interesting models. Have you ordered from there?

The ones I found on Bill Keslos mfg are these:

For zipper:

https://billkelsomfg.com/shop/product/1930s-shawl-collar-half-belt-jacket/

For buttons:

https://billkelsomfg.com/shop/product/jonas-bros-half-belt-jacket/

you don't buttons all buttons the same way you don't zip up all the way everytime.

to me button is a lot more wearable, when you can unbutton the lower part when sitting, if one button is failing you can fix it yourself it won't make the whole jacket unwearable while waiting for repair, also fit better since it can slide around slightly. but perhaps if the main closure is button it looks weird if the pocket is having zipper.

That's true, I guess. I think zippers and buttons on the same is a weird look, I agree. I did not think about the way it can slide around with buttons giving it a better fit, but that's true. I didn't think about the repair process, but you're right.

I'm similar too in that I prefer buttons and I'm discussing the options with Holly (Aero) and Debs (Simmons) on what I want in a travel jacket.

Basically I second what the guys are saying in that if you're going to go w buttons choose a design that is build from the start w buttons like the Maxwell, Mulligan or go w a maker that can custom one with a sunburst design with buttons.
My take with the sunburst design is that it's a rather edgy style and may suit an aggressive front similar to a Rockafella but without the sweeping curved top stitch.

Good luck.

What makes you think it is edgy? I felt like it was quite a nice subtle detail giving the back a more pronounced V-look, slimming it down, and avoid the, to me, somewhat dull backs of a single piece.

I agree with the Rockafella though, but the collar is too much - I don't like the lapel styled collars.

I will settle for either a button design OR a zipper design though - and stick with the intended method of closure.

Hi
I’ve got an Aeromarine which is lovely smart style, but not sure I’d use it as a travel jacket. It’s quite heavy even though it’s in battered steer, plus has a wool lining which makes its a winter jacket only.
The buttons are still quite stiff and I’ve had it for over 18 months. Pretty much worn it every day over the past couple of winters. I can’t see them coming loose in a hurry. Doing and undoing it is no problem. Not sure what i would recommend but my next Aero will be a lighter weight, probably Goat suede, and also a size smaller than the Aeromarine so less bulky and easier to travel with.

Is it that much of a difference for travel jackets? I got a peacoat that I was intending to wear for the really cold times in Sweden, so the leather jacket would be a F/W/S-jacket for around ~-10C/14 and upwards.

It makes me happy that the buttons are so good. I bought a LVC jacket a few years ago, like I said, and the buttons came off after around 5 wears. Pathetic.

Is it a hassle to unbutton and button them every time you put it on/off?

I'm going to say that such a mix would not look good. They are two different jackets for a reason.

The more I think about it, the more right I believe you are.

 

[steve u]

Dan-dan,
I don't have any experience with B.K. .
I can think of one member who's ordered from the Archive line.
I do have a jacket made with Italian vegetable tanned horsehide .
Very Nice Leather...That's all I know.
Welcome to the Lounge!
steve

 

[Edward]

Aero are open to a moderate levle of customisation, but it has to be on jackets where the patterns are compatible. Not every collar with fit straight onto every jacket, and not every back panel ios interchangeable. I would be surprised if they were open to the combination mentioned in the OP simply because they are such different jackets, it would require a whole new pattern to be drawen up for that onep roject, which just isn't the Aero business model.

 

[dan-dan]

Dan-dan,
I don't have any experience with B.K. .
I can think of one member who's ordered from the Archive line.
I do have a jacket made with Italian vegetable tanned horsehide .
Very Nice Leather...That's all I know.
Welcome to the Lounge!
steve

Thank you!

I looked around a bit, and they seem to be around the same price point as Aero - it will be hard to justify not going Aero then.

They do have some amazing jackets though.

Aero are open to a moderate levle of customisation, but it has to be on jackets where the patterns are compatible. Not every collar with fit straight onto every jacket, and not every back panel ios interchangeable. I would be surprised if they were open to the combination mentioned in the OP simply because they are such different jackets, it would require a whole new pattern to be drawen up for that onep roject, which just isn't the Aero business model.

Yes, I realised it the same second I sent the e-mail that I probably am way out there. I kinda feel bad for taking up her time now... I maybe should send her a new e-mail telling her to forget about the styles I asked for.

Are the half-belts just aesthetically pleasing or do they fill a role? I see the smaller adjusters "after" the belt, which I assume are the things that actually changes the fit, not the belt itself?

There's a bespoke maker who makes jackets for like $1500-1800 near me, who do great work, and maybe she would be my best option since I don't have to deal with any compromising then, but once again, that's nearly double the price.

 

[4444Design]

i recently received my tailor made MAXWELL with some alterations - if you are keen on Buttons and not that "hot" for a MAX check for any other AERO styles and let them add the SUNBURST back.

I changed the back as well as the cuffs of my MAX to my taste and worked pretty well.

Off Course ain't possible with all different styles but i think Holly should be able to guide you trough.

People at AERO are pretty Patient so go ask her ...

I'm 100% satisfied with what i got

Also check for the sizing whether you are more after a trim fit or more roomy (eg. my MAX is in 44 and the 1930ies Halfbelt i own is in 46)

 

[Mawashi]

What makes you think it is edgy? I felt like it was quite a nice subtle detail giving the back a more pronounced V-look, slimming it down, and avoid the, to me, somewhat dull backs of a single piece.

I agree with the Rockafella though, but the collar is too much - I don't like the lapel styled collars.

I will settle for either a button design OR a zipper design though - and stick with the intended method of closure.

To each his own but I find it more eleborate than most of the other jackets.

I'm considering a Mulligan or Klondike in a slim fit. The Long half belt is also in the mix as these styles look good a little longer which is what I'm looking for in a travel jacket.

Either good luck with getting the right jacket.

 

[dan-dan]

i recently received my tailor made MAXWELL with some alterations - if you are keen on Buttons and not that "hot" for a MAX check for any other AERO styles and let them add the SUNBURST back.

I changed the back as well as the cuffs of my MAX to my taste and worked pretty well.

Off Course ain't possible with all different styles but i think Holly should be able to guide you trough.

People at AERO are pretty Patient so go ask her ...

I'm 100% satisfied with what i got

Also check for the sizing whether you are more after a trim fit or more roomy (eg. my MAX is in 44 and the 1930ies Halfbelt i own is in 46)

Hi 4444,

How much is it to modify stuff like that? I kinda like the Aeromarine, but to like it a lot I'd have to change the pockets to hand warmers.

I'm also curious what the fee for changing a back would end up being. Your Maxwell fits you really, really, well; I'm nearly 30 so I end up being a bit too young for that style, IMO.

To each his own but I find it more eleborate than most of the other jackets.

I'm considering a Mulligan or Klondike in a slim fit. The Long half belt is also in the mix as these styles look good a little longer which is what I'm looking for in a travel jacket.

Either good luck with getting the right jacket.

Hi, and thank you, Mawashi!

Yes, it's elaborate - I just thought you meant it as some kind of edgy as in trying to challenge, maybe something associated with something I did not know about.

Do Aero make their jackets in slim fit? Are there pictures of both slim and boxy? I've only looked at the stock models, thinking boxy means boxy and not a possibility to slim it down...

The Klondike is nice.The Simmons Bilt V2 is an absolute amazing piece.

http://www.simmonsbilt.com/vintageclassics/simmons-bilt-1098.html

I e-mailed them asking about a potential sunburst. I'd customise it by removing the zipper pocket on the chest.