How much leather is in your wardrobe? If you’re anything like me, there is probably at least a few pieces that you couldn’t resist – but have never quite got the confidence to wear. Well, now’s the time to dig them out! Here are the new leather rules – ways to wear leather that will leave you looking and feeling gorgeous.
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1. Put the Black Back!
Traditionally, leather has always been black. Tight black pants, black blazers, black dresses… black gives leather it’s tough, attitude-filled look, but it can make it intimidating, too. Make your leather more wearable by opting for more everyday shades, such as tan and nude, that are much easier to coordinate with the rest of your outfit too.
2. Mix Your Fabrics
Think leather has to look tough? Think again. Eva Longoria has been snapped looking gorgeous in tan leather shorts, tan heels and a chiffon blouse teamed with a white blazer. Take inspiration from her fabric mix, and team your leather with softer materials and feminine colors for a whole new way to wear leather.
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3. Opt for Detailing
On the catwalk, leather is rarely plain. It needs to catch the eye, and have buyers and journalists alike remembering each piece. Buttons, studs and sequins are all easy additions, and laser-cut leather is a particular favorite of mine. I’ve been taking inspiration from London Fashion Week, which was filled with leather shift dresses and futuristic designs.
4. Dress It down
Don’t keep your leather pieces for special occasions; there are plenty of ways to wear leather in a relaxed style too. Leather shorts can look gorgeous with a jumper or flats, and leather skirts look great teamed with jumpers. I love teaming nude shorts with a cami during the summer!
5. Choose Midi Styles
It can be tempting to stick to the common leather items, such as leather trousers, mini skirts and tiny shorts – but there are some gorgeous more unique pieces too. A midi-length leather skirt, for example, is a great way to wear leather for work. Wear it with a blouse or smart jumper, and add a satchel or handbag and some heels to finish the look.
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6. Get a Coat!
Leather is more commonly associated with blazers and cropped jackets than coats, but a leather coat is a great way to wear the trend, and the current styles are designed to be timeless. Opt for a classic fitted trench shape, and add some detail with sparkly buttons. I’ve got a striking army green coat with black leather sleeves – unusual but oh-so-warm, and it’s gotten a whole bunch of compliments!
7. Leather and Lace
Did you see Jason Wu’s leather designs at New York Fashion Week? My absolute favorite was a classic black mini dress, with ¾ length lace sleeves. His model rocked it with black ankle boots and casually tied back hair – the perfect inspiration for a really stylish but effortless look.
8. Mix Trends!
Love the classic leather trousers look? Wearing it is easier than you might think. Opt for some classic shaped black trousers that fit perfectly – flattering your figure and being comfortable are the important things here, so try some pairs on and forget about sizes! Then team them with pieces from other trends. I’ve been wearing mine with prints and patterns, lace, feminine jumpers, cut-out tops and sheer fabrics, and they give any trend a polished, high-fashion finish. Just make sure they fit right!
There are so many great ways to wear leather! It’s all in the fit and the style, so explore different shapes, designs, styles and fits until you find the one that you love – and that loves you too. The perfect pair is sure to become one of your favorite wardrobe items! Found a great pair, or got a great leather outfit? I’d love to hear how you wear yours, too.