Most leather jacket brands stop at a French 54. At Atelier Bertrand, our customisable models are made in Paris in French sizes 44 to 62, up to a 4XL, and our in-stock jackets, in black plongé lambskin, go from 44 to 56. A big and tall jacket needs a cut designed for it: broader shoulders, a more generous chest and an adjusted length, without turning the jacket into a coat.
Why big and tall leather jackets are hard to find
A jacket pattern is drawn on a base size, then graded up size by size. Beyond a 54, simply scaling it up gives sleeves that are too long, a back that is too short and shoulders that drop. Many makers therefore stop their range at 54. Leather adds a constraint of its own: a lambskin has a limited surface, and the back of a size 62 needs larger, better-chosen skins.
Our patterns are reworked at every size up to 62. The shoulders and chest widen, the sleeve and back lengthen slightly, and the ease remains that of a fitted jacket.
Size conversion
| French size | International size |
|---|---|
| 54 | L/XL |
| 56 | XL |
| 58 | 2XL |
| 60 | 3XL |
| 62 | 4XL |
How to take your measurements
- Chest: take a jacket that fits you well, lay it flat and measure from armpit to armpit. Compare with the size guide on the product page.
- Shoulders: from one shoulder seam to the other, across the top of the back. This is the most important measurement.
- Sleeves: from the shoulder seam to the wrist.
- Back length: from the collar to the hem of the jacket, at the centre of the back.
Between two sizes, choose the one that fits your shoulders. That is the measurement that decides how the jacket hangs.
Which style suits a broad build
- The Bomber: ribbed knit at the waist and cuffs, it structures the silhouette and moves with you. The easiest to wear.
- The Aviator: a wide collar that balances strong shoulders, and a warm lining for winter.
- The Harrington: a straight cut and a small two-button collar, discreet and elegant at the office as well as at the weekend.
- The Biker: the asymmetric zip draws a diagonal line that slims the torso. Wear it open.
- The Leather Blazer: longer, it covers the hips and lengthens the silhouette.
- Straight cuts: the Rivoli, the Minimaliste or the Col Officier, with a clean line.
Supple leathers such as plongé lambskin drape better on a broad build than a thick, stiff hide. Dark colours (black, dark brown, midnight blue) are visually slimming.
Customisable and made to measure: when it is the best option
If your arms or torso are longer than average, our customisable, made-to-measure service solves the problem. We start from our patterns up to size 62 and adjust the sleeve and body length to your measurements at no extra cost. You also choose the leather from more than 120 colours. Each jacket is made in our Paris workshop in 4 to 6 weeks, from €1,470.
Try it on at the showroom
The surest way is to try it on. At our showroom in the 9th arrondissement, by appointment, you can try the in-stock jackets in sizes 44 to 56 and our big and tall fitting samples, and we take your measurements on the spot. If you are travelling to Paris, our guide to buying a leather jacket in Paris will help you plan the visit.
Frequently asked questions
What is the largest size you make?
Up to a French 62 (4XL) on the customisable models, and up to 56 (XL) on the in-stock jackets, in black plongé lambskin.
Does a big and tall leather jacket cost more?
From 44 to 58, the price is the same. In sizes 60 and 62, the customisable jacket costs €290 more, so €1,760, because it needs more leather.
How long does a customisable big and tall jacket take?
4 to 6 weeks. Every jacket is made to order in our Paris workshop, whatever the size.
Can I order a large size without coming to Paris?
Yes. Send us your measurements, or those of a jacket that fits you well, and we will advise you on the size and adjustments by phone or email.
Should I choose a 56 or a 58?
The one that fits your shoulders. Measure the shoulders of a jacket you wear often and compare with the size guide, or come and try our big and tall samples at the showroom.