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How to Wear Leather {and not look trampy}

October 6th, 2009 by crystal
How to wear leather
Photos: 1, 2


There was a lot of leather on the Fall 2009 runways. It seemed every designer had some take on how to best showcase the material in its comeback season. From conservative to sexy, from feminine to scary, leather was everywhere.


Given that, it’s safe to say leather can be worn in pretty much any style. You can go full on rocker chic with a studded leather jacket, leather mini and over the knee boots. You can go for the sophisticated elite look with a leather pencil skirt, matching blazer and ruffled blouse. You can opt for the grungy groupie look with leather pants, a vintage tee and strappy stilettos. But, unless your daily style is any of those, you’ll run the risk of looking like you’re getting ready for Halloween.


Let’s face it. Most of us don’t hit up posh New York night clubs every night of the week. Nor do we get invited to celebrity studded shin-digs. For most of us, wearing one of the above outfits out to a local bar or party would turn heads and incite rabid whispering. You’d be out of place. And, not in a good way. порно расказ мать сын


So, how do you wear leather and pull it off? How do you wear leather and look stylish (instead of slutty)?


Here’s a rundown of how to wear each leather item, complete with sample outfits for each.

How To Wear Leather Jackets

Unless you’re going for the rocker chic look and will be every time you wear your leather jacket, it’s a good idea to avoid jackets that are studded or embellished. Choose a soft leather that is fitted. Black leather is quintessential, but brown or camel leather is better if you want your jacket to blend instead of pop. For length, choose a cropped jacket or one that hits at the hips. Anything longer, especially in black, just screams The Matrix.


As far as what types of leather jackets are most stylish this Fall, look for a leather blazer, motorcycle jacket or one with ruffled edges.

Leather Jacket Look #1 :: With a Dress

How to wear leather jacketsHow to wear leather jacketsHow to wear leather jackets

Shown: Victoria’s Secret Leather Jacket, Cashmere Sweater Dress, Chinese Laundry Over the Knee Boots

Leather Jacket Look #2 :: With Dark Skinnies

How to wear leather jacketsHow to wear leather jacketsHow to wear leather jackets

Shown: Victoria’s Secret Leather Jacket, Banana Republic Skinny Jeans, Jessica Simpson Pumps

How To Wear Leather Pants

Leather pants are tricky. They have a tendency to make your natural curves look bulky. Thus, leather pants work best on women with narrow hips and thin legs.


To get a perfect fit, it’s better to have a pair of leather pants custom made. But, really? That’s a lot of effort and money to get something that goes in and out of fashion. It’s better to just find a pair that fits as close to perfect as you can. Leather pants should fit like a glove. If you’re between sizes, go for the tighter fit as the leather will stretch over time. It’s better to have pants that are a little tight at first and then fit well than to have pants that fit at first but are baggy soon after.


Leather pants can easily make you look like a dominatrix. To avoid this, make sure you pair your pants with a softer, more feminine top.

Leather Pants Look #1 :: With Ruffles

How to wear leather pantsHow to wear leather pantsHow to wear leather pants

Shown: Victoria’s Secret Leather Pants, Silk Tiered Top, Rampage Heels

Leather Pants Look #2 :: With A Loose Tee

How to wear leather pantsHow to wear leather pantsHow to wear leather pants

Shown: Victoria’s Secret Leather Pants, Off-Shoulder Tee, Michael Kors Gladiator Sandal

How To Wear Leather Skirts

To avoid a strumpety look, wear a leather skirt with a high-waist or a long hem. Paired with the right tops, you’ll achieve a look of sophistication that is even classy enough for the office.


Of course, if you’re heading out to a night club sport the leather mini (with a tight band t-shirt and studded bangles) by all means!

Leather Skirt Look #1 :: With an Oxford Shirt

How to wear leather skirtsHow to wear leather skirtsHow to wear leather skirts

Shown: Ellen Tracy Pencil Skirt, Fitted Shirt, MAXSTUDIO Mary Jane Pump

Leather Skirt Look #2 :: With a Cardigan

How to wear leather skirtsHow to wear leather skirtsHow to wear leather skirts

Shown: Ellen Tracy Pencil Skirt, JCrew Cardigan, Jeffrey Campbell Heels

(Faux) Leather Pieces Under $100

Cheap Leather 2009Distressed Leather LeggingsCheap Leather 2009Affordable leather 2009


Are you a fan of the leather trend?

Do you think it’s possible to pull off the look without looking trampy? Is leather something you can work into your everyday wardrobe or something you’ll be saving for nights on the town?

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3 Responses

  1. Todd Says:

    Leather Skirt Look #1 With an Oxford Shirt

    classy, but still sexy as hell


  2. Jessica Meyer Says:

    I’ve been trying to find a leather vest. Have you seen one anywhere in Austin? This post is great. Many people are scared of leather and this shows an excellent way to add it to your weardrobe without looking like a biker. :)


  3. crystal Says:

    I haven’t seen any leather vests in Austin, but I will definitely keep an eye out!
    I DID just find a faux leather skirt at Target of all places! Can’t wait to wear it! :)


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