Here’s How to Wear Them • budget FASHIONISTA

Leather clothes made their presence known on the AW23/24 runways — and now they’re all over the store racks, ecomm pages, and social feeds. You can hardly go a day without seeing someone, somewhere looking sharp in faux leather pants or a leather midi skirt. 

My guess is you’re pretty comfortable working leather and leather-look jackets, shoes, belts, and handbags into your rotation. Luxe leather and its animal-friendly counterparts have long been dominant in outerwear and accessories. But this year, the fashion gods give us permission to confidently expand the use of leather in our wardrobes. 

If you haven’t experimented with a leather skirt, dress, or top, now is the time. Whatever piece you choose, it’ll be on point with what’s trending. And, bonus, you’ll be warmer too. 

Read on for the ultimate list of guidelines for wearing leather pants, leather skirts, leather blazers, and leather trench coats. I’ll end with some tips for incorporating leather into your daily rotation.

As always, these style tips and outfit ideas aren’t hard-and-fast rules — they’re suggestions in case you need to stretch your style chops. Enjoy. 

How to wear leather pants

1. Pair leather pants with a blazer

One of the most stylish ways to wear a pair of leather pants is by pairing them with a blazer. This combination creates a sleek and sophisticated look that can be worn for both casual and formal occasions. Opt for a tailored blazer in a complementary color to elevate the outfit.

2. Create an edgy look with leather leggings

To embrace your edgy side, try real or faux leather leggings. If you’re feeling youthful and rebellious, pair them with a band t-shirt and denim jacket. Complete the look with booties to add a touch of attitude.

For a more sophisticated look, wear your leather leggings with a lightweight tunic and a pretty heel. 

3. Match leather joggers with a lightweight blouse 

Leather pants don’t have to be skin-tight. For a feminine take on leather pants, team leather joggers with a pretty, lightweight blouse and strappy sandals with stiletto heels.

How to wear a leather dress 

True story: I generated a lot of attention when I went to prom wearing a sleek leather midi dress. This was the 1980s, when all the other girls wore satin and chiffon. Jaws dropped when I cruised in with my punk-rock hair and the anti-prom dress. 

A leather dress can easily be a statement-maker, even for formal occasions. For a chic and sophisticated look, pair your leather dress with high heels and statement accessories. 

On casual days, layer a turtleneck underneath and complete the look with ankle boots.

How to style a leather skirt

1. Wear a leather skirt with a crop top

A leather skirt paired with a crop top is a trendy and modern outfit choice. This combination creates a flattering silhouette and allows you to show a bit of skin. Complete the look with a pair of strappy heels and minimal jewelry.

2. Accessorize a leather skirt with a belt

To add some definition to your waistline, accessorize your leather skirt with a belt. Opt for a statement belt to elevate the look or go for a more classic option for a sleek and polished outfit. Pair the skirt with a tucked-in blouse and ankle boots.

3. Create a casual look with a leather skirt and sneakers

For a casual and comfortable outfit, pair a leather skirt with a graphic t-shirt and sneakers. This combination adds a sporty touch to the otherwise edgy leather skirt. Complete the look with a denim jacket for an extra layer of style.

Best ways to style a leather blazer

1. Pair a leather blazer with jeans and a turtleneck

A leather blazer can finish many outfits, including jeans outfits. Slip into your favorite jeans, add a turtleneck t-shirt and flats, and you’re good to go. Gap shows us how it’s done with a faux leather blazer and striped top below. 

2.Add a touch of elegance with a black leather blazer

For an elegant and sophisticated look, pair a leather blazer with a light-toned blouse, tailored pants, and heels. This combination is perfect for a business meeting or a formal event.

3. Experiment with different textures with a suede leather blazer

If you want to add some texture to your outfit, opt for a suede leather blazer. You can style this piece with many coordinating garments, from jeans to skirts. For a bohemian-inspired outfit, pair the blazer with a floral dress and ankle boots.

How to pull off a leather trench coat

Not literally…you don’t need help there. But here are three leather trench coat outfits to try.

1. Layer a leather trench coat over a denim outfit

A leather trench coat is a statement piece that can instantly elevate your outfit. For a casual yet stylish combination, pair your favorite jeans with a t-shirt and boots, and top with a leather trench coat. You’ll have that effortless, off-duty vibe.

2. Rock a head-to-toe leather look with a leather trench coat

If you want to make a bold fashion statement, pair a leather trench with other leather garments — pants, top, boots, whatever. A full leather outfit is edgy enough to turn heads everywhere. Make sure you’re feeling confident enough to accept stares with a smile. 

3. Create a polished look with a tailored leather trench coat

For more formal occasions, you can team a tailored leather trench coat with a dress, high heels, and matching handbag. 

How to incorporate leather into your everyday outfits

1. Pair a leather t-shirt with jeans

Incorporating leather into your everyday outfits can be easy. One simple strategy is to pair a casual leather shirt or tee with jeans. Complete the outfit with sneakers or ankle boots.

2. Try a leather pencil skirt

A leather pencil skirt is a versatile piece that can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For a feminine and sophisticated look, pair it with a blouse and heels. Add some delicate jewelry to complete the outfit.

3. Add a pop of color with a colorful leather piece

If you want to make a statement, incorporate a colorful leather piece. Opt for a leather jacket or skirt in a bold hue like red or blue. Pair it with neutral garments so that your colorful piece can shine. 

3. Accessories always work 

Not everyone is comfortable going big on leather. And that is OK! You can always start small with leather accessories. A pair of leather gloves, a bold leather belt, a leather moto jacket, or new leather boots can add new life to your fall/winter wardrobe. 

Leather clothes: Good for your confidence 

Leather clothes are stylish, warm, and durable — three great things! Whether you prefer real leather or faux leather, these pieces can elevate any outfit and give you a good shot of confidence, too. Experiment with different textures, silhouettes, and accessories to create looks you adore.