Okay, there are leather jackets and then there are leather jackets. Where does one find the really good ones that are made to last a lifetime and beyond? You know, in cowhide with really strong stitching and such? I've heard of all the big US makers but since I live in Europe, France to be precise I'd rather buy one here and try it on. I was also told that the really good makers will make the jacket bespoke to fit your body perfectly, is that true? Thanks for your help and advice!

'Best' is a subjective term. I love my leather motorcycle jacket. It is thick enough to withstand road rash. I'll look at the tag tomorrow and see who makes it. As with most wearable items, it depends on the manufacturer as to if they can or can't custom fit something for you.

On the heavy metal forums everyone seems to recommend Aero, but they don't seem to do custom sizes? I have short arms.

I actually don't wear jackets anymore. I wear a heavy black velvet cloak. I'm in love with it.

I use to have a motorcycle jacket too, Wolfie. Mine was from Harley Davision (I blame my family, they are all Harley fans!). It was very comfortable. I think I still have it somewhere...

Good luck finding a custom leather jacket, Am I Goth?!

I got my long leather Trench from alocal leather shop- they do custom work too- but don't sell online. I'd recomend trying local leather shops- then you can get to try the jacket on before you buy.

Also ebay is good.

The tag on my jacket reads: AMT International London.

I've had it since I was 15 and I'm currently 32. Fits like a dream.

I once had a very fancy leather jacket from Italy, with very fine thin leather and padded shoulders. It was stolen out of my car in Hamburg. Now I have a Kutscherjacke. Very thick leather without any cushion and a little bit longer than normal. I have to go to the shoemaker, to fix a button. It's from Cinque, but don't ask me where it's from. Somewhere in Europe probably, but it might be Turkey or Marocco as well. It's not so easy to say.

I have a leather coat that I've had for 12 years now, but I don't know they are still in business (hell, if no one comes back within the decade for more products...).

I would recommend looking around in specialised stores. Some stores will tailor coats, but there are also seamstresses that can make a coat for you, with the design and material you choose. This will not be cheap, though, and you'll have to look for someone who can work with leather as not all tailors have the equipment for that.