How many of the items in your wardrobe will deliver value and style for decades? How many could you pass down through the generations, so your kids can enjoy them just as much? We’re betting the answer is ‘none of them’. Except, of course, your leather jacket.

The classic zip leather jacket is a case in point. Hit any big city vintage outlet or online vintage clothing store and you’ll find beautiful old leather wear in great condition, often costing as much – if not a great deal more – than a new one. It’s a style that never goes out of fashion. It’s simple and elegant, practical and stylish. And it’s a hot favourite with celebrities this season. Actress Hilary Duff has been spotted sporting a wonderfully zippy Doma zip leather jacket. Lily Cole, Katy Perry and Taylor Swift have obviously fallen head over heels with the Rick Owens version, in amazing pre-wrinkled leather with side zip, lovely wide collar and smooth, unobtrusive chest zip pockets for a super-slim silhouette.

Ordinary mortals can’t always afford to push the boat out and splash out vast wads of cash on an expensive designer zip leather jackets. Thankfully there’s a host of excellent alternatives without the huge price tag. All you need to do is invest a bit of time and effort and get your internet surfing finger in position!

Choose from the fold down shirt-style collar, the large ornamental collar – a bit hit right now – or the classic Nehru collar, neat and stylish. None of them will date. And they all suit any occasion. There’s the ‘blouson’ style jacket, AKA the leather sports jacket, massive in the ’70s and equally popular right now. Choose from an elasticated waist or a contemporary classic with a straight waist band that isn’t elasticated.

Zips are always easier to handle than buttons. The zip leather jacket is endlessly versatile and easy to wear. Best of all it’s really handy for the British spring and summer when, no matter how high the temperatures climb during the day when the sun’s out, the evenings and nights are usually disappointingly chilly.

Think jeans and t shirt, topped off by a wonderfully soft, supple leather masterpiece. Or a simple but very posh frock, finished off to perfection with a big necklace, huge earrings and a chunky leather blouson. Pick your favourite from a vast range of gorgeous colours from cherry reds to purples, creams, beiges and of course brown and black. Or go for broke and choose ’70s tan for a look that’ll never die!