5 ways to style leather this season, from statement skirts to accessories

The best leather pieces to wear now

Credit: Getty Images

Fashion


5 ways to style leather this season, from statement skirts to accessories

By Soraya Gaied Chortane

5 months ago

All products on this page have been selected by the editorial team, however Stylist may make commission on some products purchased through affiliate links in this article

5 min read

This season we’re hell-bent on leather. From casual chic to high-octane glamour, these looks will ensure you look and feel fabulous every step of the way. Dive into our guide…


When the weather is as changeable as it has been recently, one fashion piece that will help build your look is leather. This sumptuous material will add a dash of sophistication and edge to any outfit, regardless of its simplicity in terms of style and design.

If you’re familiar with Marlene Dietrich, the golden age film star best known for her androgynous looks, you’ll know she was fond of making bold statements in leather jackets and trousers. Ever since, leather has had associations with youthful rebellion and defiance. Fast forward to today, and designers and brands like David Koma, Tolu Coker and Natasha Zinko are breathing new life into this timeless fabric, showcasing its versatility and enduring appeal in their latest collections.

A leather jacket is a classic staple, but it’s not the only way to follow the trend this season. We’ve been loving wide-leg flares from New Look, Monsoon’s A-line skirts and a gilet from M&S. So chic. 

Getty

Credit: Getty

Not only is it incredibly stylish, but leather also offers durability and an extra layer of warmth, making it a practical investment. When selecting the right leather piece for you, choose wisely: high-quality soft leather and pleather develop a beautiful patina over time, becoming a staple in your wardrobe season after season, year after year. 

There are also some great pleather options on the market if you prefer not to use animal products or want a more affordable option. Pleather is easier to clean and maintain compared to real leather. It doesn’t require special conditioners or treatments, making it a practical choice for everyday wear.

Whether it’s a sleek leather jacket, a pair of leather pants or even a statement leather accessory, incorporating this material into your wardrobe can transform your look from ordinary to extraordinary. 

Leather’s ability to blend seamlessly with various styles – whether that’s casual or more formal attire – makes it an indispensable piece for anyone. So, as the weather keeps you guessing, let leather (in all its iterations) be your go-to for a stylish, sophisticated and effortlessly cool ensemble.

1. Embrace biker glam

A biker jacket is a staple for good reason. Easy to throw on no matter what the season, wear it over a maxi dress, with a shirt and jeans or with a mini skirt and knee-length boots. It will elevate any look from casual to edgy in an instant.

Keep in mind shape and silhouette too. By choosing the right leather items in the best shape and cut for you, you can enjoy both the functional benefits and timeless style that the material offers.

The best leather biker jackets to invest in now and wear forever

Credit: Getty Images

2. Swap your jeans for a skirt  

A great option that will see you from morning work meetings to dinner and drinks with friends. It’s so versatile and easy to wear; just throw on a fine-knit jumper and patent Mary-Jane pumps. Or style with suede trainers and a crisp white shirt for a more relaxed look. 

A leather pencil skirt can be a great option for the office. Pair it with a crisp white shirt and loafers for a comfortable, polished look. Add a blazer for extra sophistication.

Getty

Credit: Getty

3. Add accessories 

If you’re keen to get in on the leather trend but don’t know where to start, why not try accessorising? It allows you to embrace the trend without going all out. 

We’ve been eyeing heavy hardware leather belts, which look great with puffball-style dresses and low-waisted jeans. Combine a leather handbag with studded details and buttery-soft gloves, which will serve you well in the cooler, winter weather. 

The best leather pieces to wear now

Credit: Getty

4. Opt for a bold statement

Embrace a bold look with all the drama and flair you can muster. It’s time to ditch your comfy loungewear and everyday denim for luxurious leather that exudes confidence and style. Opt for high-octane statement pieces that turn heads wherever you go. 

Imagine motorcycle glam with a modern twist, where the bigger and bolder the better. Remember, it’s all about the attitude – carry yourself with confidence and let your outfit do the talking.

Head to toe leather look

Credit: Getty

5. Play with colour

Consider swapping out your all-black leather outfit for darker autumnal hues. We love rich chocolate brown shades that match well with your neutral basics and add a touch of intrigue to your outfit. 

Olive green, burgundy and oxblood are also great shades. Just look towards the Erdem, Moralıoğlu and Emilia Wickstead catwalks for ultimate inspiration. 

Getty

Credit: Getty

Stylist’s edit of this season’s best leather looks 

Contrary to popular belief, leather doesn’t have to break the bank to be considered fashion. We’ve rounded up our favourite leather and faux leather looks to shop now.

M&S

M&S faux leather aged relaxed biker gilet

Buttery soft and breathable, this gilet from M&S features all the biker details and looks lovely when styled with impactful silver jewellery. Wear on your next autumnal walk or coffee run with denim jeans and chunky trainers. 

Shop M&S faux leather aged relaxed biker gilet, £59

BUY NOW

Anthropologie

Maeve Colette cropped vegan leather trousers

The Colette trousers are Maeve’s bestseller and for good reason. Offered in three rich shades (brown, black and red) they exude a sense of autumn comfort. Give a nod to mod and pair these cropped flares with a biker jacket and Chelsea boots for a classic look. 

Shop Maeve The Colette cropped vegan leather trousers at Anthropologie, £128

BUY NOW

Cos

Cos Cavatelli clutch

Soft and pillowy clutches are big this season, and we love the Cavatelli by Cos. Crafted from premium leather in a delicious bordeaux hue. It’s so chic.

Shop Cos Cavatelli clutch, £135

BUY NOW

Monsoon

Monsoon Pippa faux leather midi skirt brown

Enhance any day and night attire with this delightful A-line skirt from Monsoon. Crafted from soft faux leather in a rich chocolate brown shade, it will see you from desk to dinner with ease. 

Shop Monsoon Pippa faux leather midi skirt brown, £69

BUY NOW

Arket

Arket leather Mary Jane flats

Tempted to tap into the leather trend but unsure where to begin? Try these flats from Arket. They’re a great way to introduce the style and so versatile – an easy match for every item in your wardrobe. 

Shop Arket leather Mary Jane flats, £159

BUY NOW

Albaray

Albaray faux leather midi skirt

Another great faux leather skirt from Albaray, this one has pleats and a drop waist to amp up the drama in your winter workwear wardrobe.

Shop Albaray faux leather midi skirt, £99

BUY NOW

New Look

New Look brown leather-look wide-leg culottes

From walks in the park to drinks at the bar, these are the trousers that will see you through the social season. A leather-look style in a fabulous dark brown hue – just pair with a white shirt and ballet flats for a cool, contemporary finish. 

Shop New Look brown leather-look wide-leg culotte trousers, £35.99

BUY NOW

River Island

River Island brown faux leather oversized biker jacket

Nothing says ready for autumn quite like this brown faux leather jacket from River Island. With silver hardware and deep pockets, it will partner well with your casual basics this season. 

Shop River Island brown faux leather oversized biker jacket, £49

BUY NOW

Mango

Mango leather obi belt

Inspired by Japanese martial arts, this belt from Mango is made from 100% goatskin and is the fashion-forward pick of the season.

Shop Mango leather obi belt, £59.99

BUY NOW

Images: Getty; courtesy of brands 

Sign up for the latest news and must-read features from Stylist, so you don’t miss out on the conversation.

By signing up you agree to occasionally receive offers and promotions from Stylist. Newsletters may contain online ads and content funded by carefully selected partners. Don’t worry, we’ll never share or sell your data. You can opt-out at any time. For more information read Stylist’s Privacy Policy

Thank you!

You’re now subscribed to all our newsletters. You can manage your subscriptions at any time from an email or from a MyStylist account.