Okay, we’re talking leather. The leather trend is an autumnal favourite and has been for years thanks to style icons from James Dean to Kate Moss (dam, look at her!) who have made it both cool, classy and rebellious. Whether you’re a fashion wallflower or confident with your dressing, there is a way for everyone to wear and love the leather story.
The Trench:
Don’t panic we don’t mean in the style of Keanu Reeves circa The Matrix; we mean a well-cut leather trench that cinches at the waist with sleek sophistication. When we first met Joseph’s ‘Toro’ design we realised we had found a must-have that we never even knew we needed!
B & T SAY: Wear it with navy tailored trousers and a classic white shirt for sassy office styling, or with jeans and a camel knit at the weekend.
The Jacket:
No wardrobe should be without a well-chosen leather jacket, whether it is tailored, crop-sleeved or a classic biker. The cool girls lust for Acne’s ‘Mape’ because it has everything they want; epaulettes, zipped cuffs and a buckled belt. However, if you feel that your cool-rider days are behind you, look for a more classic design without any bulky detailing and steer clear of tassels, fringing or anything that nods to the Hells Angels uniform.
B&T Say: This sartorial favourite works with everything whether you choose to dress it up or down, it works for all seasons.
The Pencil Skirt:
The pencil skirt has really started to run this season with brands from Topshop to The Row perfecting their shape and finish. Sitting on the waist and cut with figure-flattering panels, the leather pencil skirt will do more for you than you think. It is best to avoid any designs with bulky details (e.g.: heavy zips / pockets) because they will only add onto your hips; keep it streamline.
B&T SAYS: Style an above-the-knee pencil skirt with a soft silk blouse, fluffy mohair or a white tee and blazer.
The Shorts:
Alexa Chung, Diane Kruger and Miranda Kerr have fashioned the leather short, a garment that sings ‘I’m stylish and brave’. Too tight and you’re uncomfortable, too loose and you are in waders (you can see how they are potentially tricky.) Look for those that fit on the waist with a slightly flared cut in a short length but not hot-pants, or they will ‘bunch’ at the crotch (for want of a better word.)
B&T SAYS: To keep the look off-duty wear shorts with a loose fit knit, silk blouse or logo tee and sharp jacket.
Style Disclaimer: It is essential to wear appropriate underwear with leather garments, VPL must be avoided at all costs.