The Surprising Ways Fashion Insiders Are Wearing Leather Right Now

By Danielle Naer

ICYMI: leather has crept into near-every corner of the street style space in 2020. First, it was with floor-sweeping leather trench coats (courtesy of Kourtney Kardashian); then came blazers and button-downs. At this point, fashion plates would be hard-pressed to find a silhouette not yet rendered in the slick texture — making it easier than ever to channel it into your own wardrobe. For those whose current leather arsenal might be confined to a few pairs of boots and biker jackets, you’ll want to take stock of the ways fashion insiders are wearing leather right now — spanning pleated skirts, suits, and everything in between.

To browse the top six leather-clad looks making the rounds from Paris to LA, browse below:

Leather Trench Coats

 

When we look back on trends years from now, leather trench coats will practically signal the start of 2020. Beloved by New York It-girls, the style can be shopped in jet black for a more demure look; or, go with a honey-colored style for a ‘70s-worthy twist. Camel tones and butter yellows are also major this fall — especially when worn together for a tonal look. Consider shopping for a trench in one of the two, and style with accessories in the opposite shade.

Leather Pleated Skirts

 

Pleated skirts have been omnipresent this fall, after taking over the runways earlier in 2020. Though trending in several formats — trousers, skirts, and shorts, to name a few — skirts have been having a major moment, especially when rendered in leather. Be sure to style with your favorite lounge hoodie or crew neck for a cozy look; or, go polished with a simple button-down.

Leather Button-down Shirts

 

Leather button-downs were this spring’s surprise trend, and they’re steadily making a return for fall. Consider shopping a neutral tone that will pair seamlessly with winter whites; or, keep with head-to-toe black by styling with cotton trousers and loafers.

Leather Shorts

 

Leather shorts are a transitional dressing piece with tons of potential. Once the weather has cooled too steeply to wear these stag, layer a pair of tights (such as Balenciaga’s BB All Over Flock Tights) underneath them. Just be sure to keep your desired level coverage in mind while shopping, as styles range from ultra-short hot pants to longer Bermuda styles.

Leather Jeans

 

Yes, the two — “leather” and “jeans” — do belong in the same sentence. Slightly more casual than leather trousers and leggings, the leather jeans trend offers a baggy silhouette that oftentimes comes with a contrast-stitch, for added dimension. Though Maison Margiela’s widely-popular style is sold out, there are tons of similar styles worth pilfering.

Leather Suits

 

Once you’ve mastered the rest, you’re ready for the leather suit. Albeit bold, the co-ord look is super impactful, offering its wearer two pieces that can be styled on their own and together. For a synced look, simply layer them over a white tee (or, a knit bra top, to also tap one of fall’s biggest trends). On its own, style the blazer with a slip dress and turtleneck. For the trousers, go with a mesh top and a statement necklace.

cover photo courtesy of @mariakragmann