By Cory David, Mr. Eagle WM 2020/2021

Sometimes the things we are running away from, we actually, find ourselves running to!

My friend Mr Eagle NYC 2020/2021, Michael Jeavons, inspired my leather self image at IML. His positive laid back attitude and his style rocked me.  It actually shook my core in a positive way. I have always been drawn to his same style. I have purchased several biker style pieces, but would I dare compete in them? 

I spent a few nights looking at a picture of my leather at IML, questioning my choices. Why did I think conforming to a predetermined look was for me? I ran from that in my early twenties. This isn’t anything compared to coming out, but it was still fitting a mold of sorts.  

Now inspired, I took a deeper look at myself, who and what I was trying to achieve or express.  A realization of a look, I thought was expected from the leather community and in May from the judges. 

I was stuck in a leather protocol embedded in me for years.  There is no right or wrong way to show your genuine leather self.  A cover and tie for formal events respecting culture and history in Old Guard style is always a great standard. 

Now if you decide to follow the formal looks, know the protocol.  For example, never touch the rim of your cover and know the proper way to hold it.  You will put an Old Guard Leatherman in “stroke conditions.”  

In the fraternity style IML traditions, Jeff Tucker’s amazing motivating sessions behind closed doors with competitors, IML elite and only those that wear the medal in pride around their necks still.  The brotherhood events in those rooms remain silent to all, not yet to be heard from the next year’s class of IML. Now embedded in my IML self is Jeff’s words, and they are ringing clear.  Be comfortable in your style and genuine in your attitude. 

Leather is a genuine connection to your inner self, exploring your style should happen organically. The new guard biker style gear I have from Rough Trade LA, normally I have paired them with a formal style. I am now exploring leather in my daily life with my everyday looks, it’s not just left for the weekend anymore. 

My current favorite is motocross pants, sleeveless t-shirts, cap and boots.  If you feel sexy and confident in your choice, you made the right one.  This process will be an evolution of trial and error, feel the vibe, its  journey, don’t be influenced by the norm, try the path less traveled, show your genuine self.