By Niamh ODonoghue
20th Nov 2018
20th Nov 2018
It was fashion’s favourite Oliva Palermo at Paris Fashion Week who changed my mindset on leather trousers. In calf-length, high-waist leather trousers, she owned the Parisian streets; perfectly teaming her tough-woman look with delicate knitwear and a pair of signature sunglasses to boot. She looks effortlessly cool, and I want in.
A pair of toughened-up leather trousers make easy work of an over-sized jumper or cardigan, yet still looks incredibly feminine when paired with a delicate leotard or simple white shirt. Denim, band T-shirts, even a wrap dress: there are few wardrobe combinations that leather trousers can’t offer a sartorial solution to. Avoid the sucky-in grasp of the leather legging and opt instead for a more structured, trouser-style fit; a shape that is far more appealing and flattering. Yes, leather trousers have transformative powers and I’m ready to feel it! If you needed more reasons to try leather trousers IRL, let me present you with five:
& Other Stories
Leather trousers, €295 at stories.com
Offering an effortlessly chic style, these premium leather trousers are defined by straight, loose-fitting legs. A high-waisted finish is perfect for tucking your favourite band T-shirt into, and the addition of belt loops is the perfect excuse to wear excess metal-wear. Finish with a pair of simple open-toed sandals for a look to rival any rock band groupie.
Topshop
Premium leather trousers, €235 at topshop.com
If you’ve yet to experience the marvel of Topshop Premium, let me explain it in three words: standout, high-quality, exclusive. The Topshop Premium range is just that: it’s a curated selection of fine, high-quality pieces that are shown during fashion week. Prices are more high-shelf than the average Topshop collections, but the pieces speak for themselves.
Do leather the modern way with these high-waisted, premium leather trousers in a wide silhouette with side stripe detailing. I’m styling them with a silk blouse tucked in for a chic look that works for both evenings out and weekends in.
Petar Petrov
Cropped patent-leather straight-leg pants by Petar Petrov, €1,302 at net-a-porter.com
Don’t be alarmed by the vibrancy of these voyeuristic, exhibitionist-style red leather trousers by Petar Petrov. The Vienna-based designer grew up in the 80’s and sewed his own clothes in order to stand out. Perfect for making your own statement, these pants are cut from crinkled patent-leather in a bold crimson hue and finished with centred seams. Wear yours with a crisp white blazer and this season’s western boots.
J.W Anderson
Fold-front leather trousers by J.W Anderson, €1,760 at matchesfashion.com
Edgy, biker grunge might not be J.W Anderson’s usual taste but these fold-front leather trousers have proved that the eponymous label is multi-layered. Crafted in Italy from smooth calf leather with loose, tapered legs, they have a fold-over front panel, while the waist and ankles are secured by silver-tone metal buckles. Tuck a crisp white T-shirt into them to enhance the directional feel.
Stella McCartney
Alicia black pants, €1,027.76 at stellamccartney.com
In keeping with the brand’s celebrated ethos for sustainability and ethically-sourced garments, these Stella McCartney loose-fitting leather pants are as soft as they are beautiful. with elasticized waistband and a loose fit, they have a real performance feel to them and are ideal for lounging in style at home or busy, on-the-go days in work.
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