It’s January. It’s cold. I still want to wear skirts. There are a number of solutions to this very stressful fashion dilemma:
1. Tights
2. Longer skirts
3. Warmer fabrics
4. Consuming enough alcohol to dull the sensation of how chilly you are.
My solution? 4 obviously, where appropriate – but mixed with warmer fabrics. Leather skirts or vegan leather skirts are a great option, and are a modern, slightly evocative and striking update for a pencil skirt that is versatile enough to transcend daytime, evening and workwear looks.
This look
For a daytime look that didn’t need to be too formal, I’ve paired this beautiful Gestuz number with a chunky knit in a contrasting colour, tucked into one side. The cream floaty sleeves are up-to-date and the loose fit compliments the pencil skirt perfectly. My favourite part? It’s really warm!
Oversized sunnies create a modernised Audrey Hepburn vibe, and although any mid-to-high heel will set off the look well, I’ve gone for sock boots for an additional point of interest. You could consider knee-high leather boots for another cute alternative.
More tips for styling leather skirts (or vegan leather skirts)
- Fit is Key: Usually, there isn’t much give in leather garments or their faux alternatives, so try on several until you find one that skims your body shape in just the right way (that is – the way you feel most comfortable and happy with). If you’re opting for real leather, chances are you’re going to be forking out a decent sum of money – so it’s worth taking the extra time to get it right.
- A word on PU and vegan leather fabrics: Avoid anything too glossy if you don’t want to look like a dominatrix. There was an unfortunate low-fashion trend in 2018 for super glossy, skin tight latex-like skirts and cycling shorts, and it wasn’t chic.
- Textures: Play around with textures on top that compliment or contrast the shine to your skirt – chunky wool, satin, sequins, lace or fluffy angora-like materials all look gorgeous. Side note: when buying angora, leather or other animal derived products, please do your homework. All too many brands have been in the news for using suppliers that treat animals awfully in the name of profit, but many have improved their standards lately and a quick Google search will often be enough to tell you what you need to know.
- Length and Style: I love a pencil skirt like this one – and for these I’d always recommend on or slightly above the knee. Another style that I adore in leather is a full pleated number which can be a little shorter, and could be styled similarly or with a figure-hugging top for maximum silhouette impact. See below for my favourites.
In The Shops:
My Look
Leather pencil skirt, Gestuz
Cream chunky knit jumper, Misspap
Oversized sunglasses, Guess at TK Maxx
Sock boots, Christian Louboutin
My Top Picks
Burgundy leather pencil skirt, Whistles
Pleated leather skirt, Karl Lagerfeld
Pleated leather mini skirt, Mugler
Lace and PU skirt, Cristinaeffe
Faux leather pleated midi skirt, ASOS Design
Would you try a look like this, or have you got other styling tips for leather skirts to share? Please comment below and let me know your thoughts!
Love,
