The models stood still amidst piles of white tires at the Booker Spring/Summer 2016 showing, Models at the Booker Spring/Summer 2016 showing stood amidst piles of white tires, but founder and designer Jameelah Booker’s signature deerskin leather jackets inspired visions of flying across the Williamsburg bridge on a motorcycle. A video Booker took from her own bike projected on the back wall and aided this visualization.

Booker founded her eponymous line of NYC-made leather jackets in 2012, wanting to design the perfect jacket to wear on and off her bike.  In her Spring Summer 2016 Collection, she has definitely added to the brand’s repertoire.  Some models sported structured skirts and dresses, others wore contrasting ensembles of leather jackets over mesh lingerie; each piece adorned with multiple chunky silver zippers and detailed stitching.  

One look included tight black pants with a zipper so long it began at the waist and disappeared between the model’s legs.  All of Booker’s minimalist, but edgy all-black pieces gave off a fierce vibe that undoubtedly gives the consumer a look of strength. Even if she doesn’t pair it with hair so shiny it’s reminiscent of bike grease, or a Booker cuff bolted around her wrist like the models at the presentation.

However, it’s still the leather jackets that are the line’s oh-so-irresistible signature.  They are structured with armor-esque sleeves, but also appear to be soft and form fitting—ideal for a tough ride, and easily sophisticated enough for city life.  Jameelah Booker has created the ideal motorcycle jacket. It’s hard to imagine what she will do to improve it in future collections.     

Rose Gilroy is a contributing writer. Email her at [email protected].