The leather uniform is the ultimate symbol of gay masculinity that challenges the effeminate stereotype often associated with gay men. It was born during the rise in interest in motorbike culture that followed World War II that provided gay men with a rebellious and dangerous image.

In the late 1950 Touko Laaksonen (aka Tom of Finland) began producing drawings of bikers and leathermen inspired by the popularity of denim and leather as symbols of masculine and active gay men. His iconic drawings became more popular and widespread in the 1970s as Laaksonen focused full-time on his images. This coincided with the rise of the gay leather scene in Berlin and the opening of several leather clubs.

Today, the classic gay uniform look has developed into a style that is a mix of biker and police uniforms, drawing on various uniform styles and traditions. Typically, leathermen who identify with the Uniform Tribe, wear tall boots (usually motorcycle riding boots), tight leather jeans or breeches, leather shirt and tie, and a classic motorcycle jacket (such as Langlitz or Perfecto), a Sam Browne belt and a Muir cap.

BLUF (Breeches and Leather Uniform Fan Club) is the internet based group that personifies the leather uniform tribe today and its members meet regularly throughout the world. Membership to the club is open to men who prove an understanding of how to dress in accordance with the dresscode which reflects the spirit of the classic leather uniform.

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