Trend alert: alligator jackets

After last year’s Hermès crocodile skin t-shirt, which made headlines with its $91,500 sticker, we’ve spotted a new trend for uber-luxe and uber-pricey reptilian outerwear. 

Last week, Montreal-based luxury retailler ssence.com unveiled an exclusive Calvin Klein Collection alligator skin biker jacket in navy. The piece is made to order (with a 6-8 week wait for delivery) and retails at $70,000.

It’s part of a wider trend for luxury outerwear which can match the prices of luxury vehicles. London-based label Burberry has also got in on the act with a military green-colored trench coat in alligator currently available for a whopping $115,000. The coat comes in the classic Burberry trench-cut with epaulettes, a double gun flap and a rain shield, all in alligator skin. 

Jay-Z’s curated collection for Barneys New York (which went on sale in November last year) also featured a luxury reptile piece. That time it was the Mollino Crocodile Jacket designed by Rick Owens, made in Italy and priced at $58,000. 

We think you can expect to see plenty more of these one-off statement pieces as luxury brands seek to out-do each other with extravagant coats which will have Captain Hook quaking in his boots.