Allsaints Balfern Leather Biker Jacket Review
I know it wasn’t long ago that I got my very first leather jacket (the Allsaints Papin), but it probably doesn’t come as a shock to you to know that I ended up getting a second. Since I only really had black leather style jackets and not a brown, when I saw the Allsaints Balfern in Sahara, I knew I had to get it. Luckily I managed to while they had the 20% discount going on, so that was a bonus too. It’s turned out to be absolutely gorgeous and perfect in every way and a brown leather jacket is just what I needed. You can read my review on it below!
The Sizing: The sizing on the Balfern Leather Biker Jacket seems to be quite true to size for Allsaints to me. I’m generally a size UK 6 in their coats and most of their other items (apart from the Kit Jersey Biker Jacket and the Papin Biker Leather Jacket) and the 6 is what I took in this one. It fits absolutely perfectly everywhere and isn’t too big or too small in any areas as you can see. Since I’ve been a UK 4 in their other leather jackets before, I decided to take the 6 in this one as the leather looked stiffer and not as supple, so I was definitely right in making that decision. If of course you would love to wear thicker knitwear underneath this jacket though, definitely size up one for a more comfortable fit.
The Fit: The fit of the Balfern is absolutely amazing. It’s got more of a boxy feel to it so it’s not nipped in at the waist like the Papin is, but it’s definitely gorgeous. The sleeve length is a full length design, so there’s no cropped sleeves which makes me happy. You can see the sleeves hit perfectly on my wrists, right where they should be. The actual length of the jacket is slightly cropped. It’s not full length as you can tell, but it’s not extremely cropped either. I would say it hits middle ground between the two, right at the top of my hip/pelvic bones. It would be great if it did have a more defined waist, but given the design of the jacket, with the belt around the bottom, it’s not that type of design to feature a feminine fit.
The Design/Style: In terms of the design on the Balfern, it’s pretty much perfect! The lapels actually have poppers to keep them lying flat against the jacket which is a huge bonus for me. Most of the time the lapels can end up folding in or flapping around, so keeping them strapped down is ideal. The zippers on the sleeves really add a nice touch to the design of the jacket too, as do the zippers and pockets positioned around the jacket. The belt around the bottom makes it edgy and perfect for that biker appearance and it works even in the Sahara brown colour. This jacket is really popular and comes in numerous colours each season: Black, Navy, Burgundy Red, Pink, Suede… but I really wanted something in a classic brown which is why I went for this one and it’s amazing. I’ve seen the black and it’s ideal if you want a biker jacket like this in black, I even want it myself. Usually I would go for a burgundy, but unfortunately it’s not quite the burgundy that I like as it’s a bit too dark and more on the mahogany side.
The Comfort/Leather: The leather on this jacket is a lot stiffer and harder than the usual soft leather of the Papin or Cargo, but it makes the jacket stronger and more sturdy which is why the stronger leather was used. I don’t think a really supple leather would hold up well on this jacket as it has a belt around the bottom which might pull it out of shape. It seems to be fairly durable and splash proof too, but if you want to know how to care for your leather jacket, just check that post. Comfort wise though, as long as you get your perfect size right, it’s extremely comfortable to wear. I adore mine and I can’t wait to wear it loads when the weather warms up! It’s perfect for really thin tops underneath or ideal for t-shirts!
The Overall Opinion: My overall opinion is of course a happy one. This jacket literally is everything I was looking for in a brown leather jacket. The colour is gorgeous, it’s not too much like an old leather sofa or too tan/orange, it’s the ideal brown you would want. The lapels stay down with poppers, the sleeve length is perfect on me, the fit is flattering and the versatility of the Balfern is amazing. I know this can be worn with anything! I definitely want to get the black one at some point too! Let me know what you think of it and of course, you can buy this jacket online at Allsaints for £298.
EDIT – I also own the Black Balfern Leather Jacket now too, and a couple of suede versions, which I have included photos of. The price as of 2018 is £318 and this jacket still remains one of their most popular styles. It’s a must have year in, year out.
Buy the Allsaints Balfern online at Allsaints.com
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This is beautiful – you can’t beat a quality leather jacket. I have one in brown and one in black too.
Author
Thank you so much!
Great jacket….. and leather is so….. perfect!
Author
Thanks!
Amazing review! The jacket looks so cool. I would love to have one in my wardrobe.
Instagram | Styleccentric Fashion |Current Post – Pamana Restaurant | BLOGLOVIN
xo, Alyssa
Author
Thank you! You should definitely get one!
Oh yes, that’s a perfect shade of brown. There’s a kind of hint of chocolate there, I think. Nice shape too. I can easily imagine how well it’s going to work for you in all kinds of outfit combinations. 🙂
Now here comes the strange bit. After reading the text of your article I was going to comment that I thought you should have got the green one (as you might expect me to). But… I thought I’d best know what I was talking about first. So I followed your link and took a look at the green version and, I have to say, I really don’t like it at all in that strange green! :O There’s a first time for everything, I suppose. So I think you chose the best colour for sure. 🙂
Author
That’s funny that you said that about the green, it is like an olive khaki green more than a nice green, so I’m glad I chose the brown. Really glad you like it too!
Yes, I’m glad you chose the brown too. 99% because it looks great on you but the other 1% because I don’t quite know what I’d have commented if you’d chosen the green… 😉 LOL 😀
Author
Ha ha, now that’s the question. Would you have been honest or would you have said you liked it?
Good question which deserves a straight answer. 🙂
I’d have been positive about the aspects that I like (the shape, the style, the fit) but probably said that I’d prefer one of the other colours better. Or, I might’ve just sat it out and not commented if I felt it really wasn’t to my taste at all.
I won’t ever leave you a dishonest comment though. I respect you far too much to do that. 🙂 Plus I don’t think you’d want me (or anyone else) to do so anyway. 🙂
Author
I always appreciate the honesty in every aspect, whether it’s bad or not, so definitely always feel welcome to say your opinion 🙂 I’m glad you wouldn’t lie!
Thanks. 🙂 OK, I’ll feel welcome to do that but I don’t think it’ll make much difference. There’s only ever been one instance of me keeping quiet due to not liking an outfit though. 99% of the time I love your choices. 😀
Author
Oooh now I am intrigued as to which one that was!
I’m afraid it’s one of your own personal favourites, Lorna. Sorry. 🙁 It’s the For Love And Lemons Desert Rose Maxi Dress. I know that it’s an extremely popular item with the vast majority of your readership so I’m completely baffled as to why I can’t see what everyone else can see and loves in it. :/ I’ve tried to but… I just can’t get there. It’s clearly a fabulous item as the general reaction shows – so I guess it’s just not my taste.
But hey, that’s genuinely the only time so far that I’ve not liked one of your outfits. 🙂
Author
Oh that does surprise me! I’d be interested to know actually what it was about it that you didn’t like? You are right, it’s definitely popular and one of my most popular/commented on blog posts to date, so it’s definitely a hit among the women. I’d love to know what it was about it that you didn’t like!
Basically it’s the length and shape of the net layer of the dress that I’m struggling with.
I like the shape of the solid black under layer and I quite like the cactus flower red patterns on the net layer. If it had been a solid black dress with the cactus patterns on then I think I’d have liked it. Or, maybe even with the net layer if it stopped at around knee length. So I guess it’s what’s going on below knee level that is spoiling it for me.
The bottom of the net layer looks distractingly strange to me and I feel as though rather than complimenting your figure the lower portion of the dress is instead battling against your figure – and it’s your figure that’s winning the battle and so further questioning the point of bottom of the dress.
There are several shots in that photo shoot where the bottom of the dress is out of shot and I feel much more favourable towards in those. 🙂
I think it really boils down to individual personal taste though and, this once, my taste isn’t in close enough conjunction with your choice. But… I am genuinely happy for you that that entry got such a hugely positive response overall. 🙂
Author
That’s fine, that makes sense completely, everyone has different tastes and loves, so I’m fine with that!
I can’t believe I never even thought about getting a brown leather jacket…! Not a deeper almost chestnut brown like this one, I have a lighter tan/camel colored one. But there’s something so alluring about this piece. And the cut is just perfect on you. Love it!!
Xo Melissa
Cherish & Bloom
Author
Thank you so much! Honestly you should get one, I never really thought about one this shade until now, but it’s definitely amazing!
One of most traditional and stylish biker jacket which everyone favorite color.
Author
Glad you like it!
Your rocking this jacket. Thanks for the review.
http://www.amysfashionblog.com/blog-home/
Author
Thanks Amy!
this is amazing! i hope you’re doing well 🙂
mfashionfreak♥blog
Author
Thank you so much 🙂
Amazing pics as ever doll, love your style!
Alice Cerea,
Alice Cerea blogger
Author
Thank you!
Such a beautiful jacket! Love the photos!!
I’m following you on G+ and Instagram @mystylishcorner
mystylishcorner.blogspot.ba
Author
Thank you!
Absolutely LOVE this jacket!
xo, Jennifer
http://www.publicistinpearls.com
Author
Thank you so much!
It really is a nice fit, and I have to say you wear it better than the model does. My favorite leather jacket is a cognac one, but it is really soft and scrunchy.
Linda, Libra, Loca: Beauty, Baby and Backpacking
Author
So glad you like it and yours sounds lovely!
Love this jacket!! Amazing look!!
Xoxo,
Love from http://www.trangscorner.com {a lifestyle, fashion, beauty, and food blog}
Author
Thank you!
Just stumbled upon your photos in a search for the Cargo and Balfern. I am trying to decide between the two with no store nearby to try them on. I am short, 5’2″, and an All Saints rep told me the Cargo is a full length jacket but did not have measurements to provide regarding length. The Balfern looks more cropped and I am so drawn to it; however, the Cargo is calling me too. You look great in this jacket! I always prefer brown over black whenever possible. Can you tell me the length of the Balfern from shoulder to hem?
Author
Hi, sorry I just found this message as it was in my spam box. Each jacket varies with different sizes, my size UK 6 from shoulder to hem is around 18 inches, however I don’t have the Cargo leather jacket, I have the Papin. I’ve seen the cargo in store and know that it runs pretty big too much like the Papin does, but the Balfern runs a bit smaller. Balfern isn’t cropped actually, I find it to fit me in the same place that the Cargo would when I tried it on, but the Papin is definitely the most cropped out of them all. I have outfit photos of both jackets (not the Cargo though) if you want to search my blog. It’s hard to judge online on All Saints as the models wear the jackets about 3 sizes too big and they look really baggy and sloppy so you don’t get a full idea of the length and fit properly unfortunately.
Ha, I just now found your reply to my message so we are both behind! 🙂 Thank you so much for your thoughts/assessments and the measurement. I ended up with the Cargo in grey in a size UK 6 as it was on deep discount – the only size and jacket left in the US at the time of purchase! It fits nicely enough but does not sit as close to my body as I’d like. The UK 4 may have been too tight in the shoulder though. I am still stalking the Balfern but in the interim (until it goes on sale again or I come across a great ebay deal) I purchased the Zara Basic Leather Jacket and Muubaa Asha. Both have belts, are black, and collectively cost less than the Balfern (Muubaa on sale; Zara full price). There is still something about the Balfern that is calling to me and I know I will own it someday. Sure hope you are enjoying yours!
Author
I am! I am loving it so much, it’s a gorgeous jacket. Thank you for the update on yours 🙂 All your jackets sound lovely! Did you see my new ones for Spring?
I did! You have such great taste Lorna!! The Plait Balfern is lovely too. I have a couple of goat leather jackets and find it to be a very durable leather, not to mention comfortable. It helps that your body type wears clothes well; the Balfern fits you perfectly everywhere. Bloomingdales here in the US just started carrying All Saints and offered a 10% discount to sign up for online emails and another 10% to open a credit card, I decided to just take the plunge and order the Balfern at 20% discount. I’ll cut up the card afterward! 🙂 I hope it fits me as well as it does you. I am trying the UK 4 first as my UK 6 Cargo is a little too big.
Author
Good luck with it 🙂 I hope it fits! I know when I tried the cargo it ran a little bigger than the Balfern, but hopefully the 4 works for you!
I really like the style of the leather jacket, it looks great on you! Have a nice weekend.
http://www.mintnotion.com
Author
Thank you so much!
Lorna, this jacket is just divine! It look stunning on you! I Wonderful pictures too! Just love it!!!
Happy Friday, my gorgeous friend!
xoxo, Vanessa
http://www.WhatWouldVWear.net
Author
Thank you so much!
Don’t care too much fotr the white t-shirt hanging out, but I must say that your bum is much nicer that the model with the black jeans… then again I’m a sucker for your body. 😉
Keep going, Lorna! Luv from Spain.
Author
Lol, thanks Michael 🙂
Sounds like you discovered leather jackets for you 🙂 Also your second jacket is amazing and I really like the colour and cut. Wish you many fun with your new jacket.
xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
http://www.dressedwithsoul.com
Author
Thank you so much! 🙂
Your brown leather Jacket is truly a show stopper!! It adds so much edge to the whole look! You look stunning!!
http://www.fashionstylemogul.com
Author
Thank you!!
The jacket looks fabulous on you Lorna, and suits your style really well. The fitting is perfect, and I especially like the stylish belt and zips, which add a certain toughness to the look.
Saba x
http://www.trulymadlydeeplyfashion.blogspot.com
Author
Thank you so much, Saba!
Thank you for reviewing this 🙂 It’s so pretty in brown 🙂
Author
You’re welcome! It is!
This jacket looks amazing… perfect blend of style and class
Author
Thank you!
Hi! I was searching for Balfern reviews and came across yours 🙂 Has this stretched out at all? I’m deciding between the 4 & 6…the 4 is pretty tight when I move my arms up and out but wondering if it will stretch with wear. Thanks!
Author
Hi, it’s stretched a bit, not a huge amount, but definitely stretched out some 🙂
Thank you!
I will chime in too that mine has stretched a little in the shoulders and upper back. Some day I will try on the next size up but I think it would not be as fitted in the body as I like. Also, the Balfern is not the same length in every size. Each time you size up, the larger size is about 1/2 to 1 inch longer. So if you’re short like me, this could be an issue.
Author
Thanks for giving your advice on this too! I tried the size up and it was sloppy in the chest area, which was no good.
Thanks for the info!
Would you say that the balfern is warmer than the papin and cargo ? I have both of those but I live in a super warm climate so I don’t have a need for heavy jackets, though I do love leather jackets so much ( maybe I need to move)
Author
Hi, I would probably say the Papin is the warmer one as it’s padded and thicker. The Balfern is just the one layer of leather. I don’t own the cargo to know, but I have tried it and I would say it’s about the same as the Cargo. But it’s definitely not thick. Hope that helps!
Thanks so much for replying ! I think I’m going to be getting the balfern and returning the papin. It’s so cute but just too warm for me!
Author
Good idea! I find the Balfern is my favourite one. I own it in 5 different colours now! The suede ones are even lighter weight again, but they usually come out in the Springtime. The black Balfern is my favourite! If you’re ordering online, would you do it via the link on my blog? They know my website referred you then!
I have both Balfern and Cargo and feel the Cargo is warmer than Balfern, mostly because the Cargo sleeves are longer and have the extra wrist strap/snap, making them harder to push up. But, comparing leather to leather, the Balfern is a slightly thicker leather than the Cargo. I live in southern AZ; the Balfern is my go-to leather jacket. I use the Cargo on colder days to layer over long sleeves since it is considered a full-length jacket by All Saints. Balfern is a slightly cropped length.
Author
Thank you for chipping in there! Really helpful!
Beautiful jacket! I’m considering buying one in black but I’m a bit stuck sizing-wise! I’m 5’4 with a 36 inch bust and a 25 inch waist. I’m normally a UK 6-8 in jackets. I would quite like my jacket to zip up but I’m worried I won’t be able to find one that fits my waist nicely! I’m very petite other than my chest and hips. What are your measurements, if you don’t mind me asking? Any thoughts on what size I should get?
Author
Hi Madeliene! Sorry I didn’t see your comment before as it was in spam for some strange reason!
My height is 5ft 4, I’ve got a 38 inch bust, a 27 inch waist and am usually a UK8 in jackets. As it has two zipper runners, you can have it tighter or looser. I can just about do the zip up on the tightest runner, but it looks silly, so I have it on the loosest one. It’s the only leather jacket I can actually do up! I would probably say try the UK8 and see how that goes? My 8 is pretty snug and tight, so it might seem like the safest option and you can do it up on the tightest zipper runner? I think it depends how you want to wear it and what with. Which hardware would you get? It would be hugely helpful if you could order through my link as well as it’s affiliate based and would help support my blog. Let me know if you need anymore advice xx.
Thanks so much for your help. I’m actually also looking into the Papin Jacket. Do you have any sizing suggestions (UK)? I would definitely like it to be slim fitting and I don’t mind terribly if it doesn’t do up.
Author
Hi, I actually reviews that one too, here https://raindropsofsapphire.com/2015/12/22/all-saints-papin-leather-biker-jacket/
Hi, could you tell what are the measurements between shoulders? 🙂
Author
Hi, are you buying online from the Allsaints website? 🙂