The best leather trousers to make you look effortlessly cool this AW

Perennially cool, leather trousers have been around for decades but the style really took off in the 50s when the so-called “Greasers” (named after their penchant for slicked-back hair) began favouring the style. Everyone from Elvis Presley to James Dean, Joan Jett, Madonna and Kate Moss has worn them since then.

Once considered the ultimate symbol of teenage rebellion (thanks to their associations with the punk movement and the rock ‘n’ roll greats of yore), leather trousers have sort of dropped their recalcitrant reputation over the years and are now as much a part of mainstream fashion as blue jeans and structured blazers. 

A favourite with A-listers, Spanx’s faux leather leggings continue to be bestsellers every year and just about every high-street shop has its own take on the classic too. Tempted to try them for yourself? Browse through our edit of the best leather trousers below and maybe shimmy into a pair this weekend…