The Most Expensive Jackets in History

It’s no secret that we love a luxurious jacket, and we’re betting that if you’re reading this, you’ll 100% be with us. Over the years, we’ve seen some incredible creations grace the fashion scene, not only worn by some of the world’s most iconic figures but also designed by some of the world’s hottest fashion houses. Today, we’re celebrating some of the most luxurious (and the most expensive) jackets to ever hit the fashion scene.

Michael Jackson’s Thriller Jacket

Arguably one of the most iconic fashion items in history, this instantly recognisable jacket was worn by the king of pop himself in the Thriller music video back in 1983. Designed by Deborah Nadoolman Landis, known for her work on blockbuster movies such as Raiders of the Lost Ark among others, the candy-apple red jacket became one of the hottest trends of the 80s when it came to outerwear. So much so that counterfeit copies of the jacket were mass-produced and sold to die-hard fans who thought they were getting the real thing. Eventually, Jackson himself filed a lawsuit to prevent further unauthorised sales of his merchandise. So how much did this iconic piece of memorabilia sell for? Well, in 2011, it was sold at Julien’s Auctions for $1.8m, with the proceeds being donated to charity.

Gucci Studded Leather Biker Jacket

Luxury fashion house Gucci has been known for high-end, “more is more” style fashion pieces, including ready to wear shoes and accessories. However, the brand is also known for their collection of the most expensive leather jackets in the world. At the very top end of the spectrum is the studded leather biker jacket, designed by Alessandro Michele and inspired by London’s punk rock scene. Crafted with tanned Italian calfskin, this badass piece was known to take around 40 hours to complete, with over 2000 studs being added by hand, one by one. With every detail of the jacket meticulously thought through, it makes use of 17 different types of studs along with numerous chain lengths dangling from it. Lined with red and black checkered cotton for contrast, this ultra-luxurious biker jacket is packed with detail but will set you back over $18,000.

The World’s Most Expensive Jacket - Farrah Gray and Peter Marco

A fairly new addition to the list, this diamond bejeweled number, nicknamed “The One” was first revealed in 2019. A collaboration between award-winning fashion designer Farrah Gray and diamond extraordinaire Peter Marco, this one of a kind creation features over 460 carats of GIA certified diamonds and has been valued at an eye-watering ten million dollars. As the first and only of its kind, never to be reproduced, the jacket currently resides at Peter Marco’s Extraordinary Jewels in Beverly Hills, California, and is viewable by appointment only.

Balmain Embroidered Leather Jacket

The luxury French fashion house is known for its rich couture history, creating impressive designs featuring everything from golden medallions to their signature coat of arms. It’s no surprise that one of their luxurious leather jackets makes the list when it comes to some of the world’s most expensive jackets. Their Paris headquarters is home to some of the most high-end clothing, including their embroidered leather jacket, coming in at around $7,000. The jacket features the brand’s signature golden embellishments, embroidered sleeves, and multicoloured studs with an asymmetric two-way zip. While it certainly comes in at the lower end of the spectrum in our list, we never thought that we’d be saying a jacket costing $7,000 is the cheapest in the lineup!

Mastermind Japan Biker Jacket

Finally, we end with one of the more minimalistic jackets, coming courtesy of Mastermind Japan, one of the country’s leading streetwear brands. The simple but sleek leather number has everything you’d want from a biker jacket - zips, epaulets, buckles, you name it - without going over the top, but it’s eye-catching finishing touch comes in the form of the skull and crossbones design on the back, created using hundreds of studs. For anyone keen on adding this one to their collection, it’ll set you back around $12,000.

If this list doesn’t quite fit in with your budget, fear not. There’s still the chance to get your hands on your very own luxurious jacket from your favourite fashion brand. Whether it's a statement piece from Versace Jeans Couture or a classic overshirt by Marshall Artist, there’s something for everyone. Browse our full collection of luxurious coats and jackets today to find your next standout piece.

Written by Amy Jackson - 21st September 2020