There's no better time than fall to wear a leather jacket. As summer comes to an end, the temperatures will become cooler. While there are dozens of jackets and coats from which to choose, none compare to the versatility of leather. A genuine leather jacket will offer the perfect combination of strength, style, comfort and durability. But if you're planning to wear a leather jacket this fall, you should follow a few tips.

Check the Thickness

When choosing a leather jacket to wear this fall, check the thickness. If it's too thick, you might overheat when wearing it. On the other hand, if it's too thin, it may lack the insulation to keep you warm and comfortable during the evenings and nights. Most people will agree that medium-thickness leather jackets work best in the fall. They aren't too thick, nor are they too thin.

Go Genuine

The allure of buying a faux leather jacket for half the price of a genuine leather jacket may seem tempting, but you have to consider its long-term value. Because they are made with synthetic materials -- and usually poorer craftsmanship -- faux leather jackets degrade more quickly than their genuine counterparts. Assuming you want to wear your jacket for multiple seasons, you need to choose one made of genuine leather. Genuine leather is a higher quality textile that's more resilient than synthetic materials. The only benefit of faux leather is its price, but that shouldn't be the only factor influencing your purchasing decision.

Dark Color

While leather jackets are available in a variety of colors, a dark color is recommended for the fall and winter months. Going back to the basics of fashion 101, light and bright colors are better suited for the spring and summer, whereas dark colors work best in the fall and winter. Whether you choose black, brown or any shade thereof, choose a leather jacket in a dark color to wear this fall.

Zip It Up

Why should you zip up your leather jacket? Well, doing so offers two purposes. First, it insulates your body by minimizing the release of heat, thereby keeping you warm during the otherwise chilly fall months. Second, zipping up your leather jacket creates a more complete and comprehensive appearance. With your jacket zipped up, your entire upper body will be defined by the leather jacket -- and that's a good thing! As long as you wear the right trousers and accessories with it, it will enhance your appearance. Of course, you can still zip down your jacket when you get hot or at other times, but keeping it zipped up with protect you from the cold and improve the look of your outfit.

The Right Pants

It's important that you wear the right pants or trousers with your leather jacket this fall. Some people assume that it's best to wear pants in the same color as their jacket. In doing so, however, they inadvertently create the appearance of a one-piece jumpsuit. To prevent this from happening to your outfit, choose pants in a different color than your jacket. If you're wearing a black leather jacket this fall, for example, don't wear black pants. Rather, choose a different color that compliments black, such as charcoal gray. Your pants should match your leather jacket, but they shouldn't be the exact same color.

Condition It

If you're going to wear a leather jacket this fall, you need to condition it. Leather jackets require minimal effort to maintain. However, the one thing that you need to do to keep your leather jacket looking like like is condition it. This involves applying a leather conditioning product like saddle soap to the material and rubbing it in. Conditioning helps to moisture leather and protect it from dryness. Furthermore, it adds a protective coat over your jacket that protects it from oversaturation. If it rains or snows this fall, you don't have to worry about this excess moisture damaging your jacket if you condition it.

Skirt and Leggings

A popular women's outfit for the fall includes a leather jacket worn with a skirt and leggings. You'll only have a brief window of opportunity to sport this outfit, as the winter weather is typically too cold for skirts in most regions. However, this is a fun outfit that's perfect for fashion-forward women. While your skirt should be a different color than your jacket, you can wear the same color leggings as your jacket. With a black leather jacket, for example, consider wearing a blue denim skirt with a pair of black leggings.

Layer It

Another idea is to layer your outfit with a leather jacket this fall. In addition to a t-shirt, you might want to wear a button-up shirt or blouse. You can then wear a leather jacket over this combination to achieve a unique, layered look.

Accessorize

Accessories are an essential component of an attractive outfit. Without accessories, or without the right type of accessories, you won't be able to create a complete and cohesive outfit. So, what type of accessories should you wear with a leather jacket this fall? Popular choices for men include a metal-clad wristwatch and necklace, whereas popular accessories for women include a bracelet, leather handbag and earrings. Just remember to choose accessories that flow with the rest of your outfit. If an accessory clashes with a particular garment, omit it from your outfit.

Wear a Hoodie Under It

If your leather jacket doesn't already have a hood -- which most don't -- consider wearing a hoodie or hooded sweatshirt underneath it. If it rains, you can pull the hood over your head to stay dry. Most importantly, though, a hood creates a uniquely casual appearance that many people prefer. When choosing a hoodie or hooded sweatshirt to wear underneath a leather jacket, make sure it's relatively thin. Otherwise, it may hinder your ability to move freely.