Leather ensembles have long been a polarising staple of winter fashion, dividing opinion between those who adore the shiny, figure-hugging fabric and those who dismiss it as tacky and uncomfortable. Indeed, some celebrities have famously struggled to pull off leather looks, with Victoria Beckham reportedly still haunted by her unflattering skin-tight black leather bomber jackets from the late 1990s. However, in recent months, leather has surged back into popularity, with style icons like Kim Kardashian, Kate Moss, and Hailey Bieber embracing the fabric to elevate their outfits.
Mastering the Leather Trend
But how can one avoid falling victim to a tacky appearance when embracing the leather trend? According to esteemed fashion stylist Lisa Talbot, leather done badly "can tip into try-hard territory very quickly." She emphasises that, when styled well, "leather trousers can be one of the most flattering, confidence-boosting pieces in your wardrobe." To achieve Kate Moss's effortless leather look rather than Kim Kardashian's excess, Lisa provides essential dos and don'ts for wearing leather trousers this season.
Opt for a Relaxed Fit
When selecting a leather outfit, Lisa advises choosing a "straight-leg, relaxed or softly tailored fit that skims the body." She notes that while tight-skinned leather was once all the rage, leather should "move with you, not look sprayed on." A loose-cut pair of trousers, as opposed to leather leggings, can elevate your spring wardrobe and even integrate into workwear. "Ultra-tight leather leaves very little to the imagination and very little room for comfort," she adds. Kate Moss's more relaxed leather trousers exemplify this approach, allowing for impeccable ease in styling, whereas Kim Kardashian's body-con looks are "dramatic and rarely wearable in real life." In contrast, Zendaya opts for tailored leather trousers styled with elegance and restraint.
Avoid Head-to-Toe Leather
While head-to-toe leather outfits are making a resurgence, Lisa strongly advises against this option. Combining a leather jacket with leather trousers can "feel heavy, dated and costumey," she explains. Exceptions exist if the look is carefully crafted and deliberate, but generally, leather should be balanced with soft or structured fabrics like crisp white shirts, cashmere knits, and tailored blazers. "This contrast instantly makes the look more grown-up," she says.
Keep Accessories Simple
The key to pulling off leather is achieving an effortless rather than engineered look. Lisa warns against overstyling: "Leather already makes a statement, piling on bold jewellery, logos and heels can push it into 'trying too hard'." Instead, lean into simple, intentional pieces such as minimal gold jewellery, a classic handbag, and clean footwear. "Think polish, not performance," she advises.
Choose Matte Over Shiny Leather
Shiny leather can "feel harsh," especially in daylight, whereas matte leather typically looks more expensive. Lisa recommends softer finishes and colours like chocolate brown, burgundy, or deep olive, which are easier to style. While previous seasons were dominated by black or brown shades, more colourful leather options are now gaining prominence.
Pair with Light, Fitted Tops
Avoid pairing leather trousers with chunky knits or oversized tops, as these can "overwhelm your frame." Instead, opt for lighter, more fitted items on the top half to create balance and define the waist. Recommended pieces include fine-gauge knits, ribbed tops, and tucked-in tees.
Select Sleek Footwear
When it comes to footwear, heavy and clunky shoes are not ideal for spring. "Thick trainers or bulky boots can shorten the leg line and make the outfit feel awkward," Lisa warns. Instead, choose footwear that elongates, such as pointed-toe flats, sleek ankle boots, or low heels. "The cleaner the shoe, the more elevated the look," she adds.
Add Structure to Your Outfit
Leather trousers are far from casual loungewear and should be styled with structure. "Treating leather like casual loungewear is a firm no," Lisa insists. Instead, incorporate pieces like blazers, sharp shirts, and belts to define shape and bring the look together. "This is where leather really comes into its own," she explains.
Ultimately, the goal is to achieve an effortless look. Lisa concludes: "If you feel uncomfortable, restricted or overly 'done', the outfit isn’t working. Get the fit right, soften the styling, and keep the rest of the outfit simple and leather trousers can be one of the most chic pieces you own."
