How to Pull Off Leather Leggings

Leather leggings are a chic, rocker-inspired alternative to basic cotton.

By now it is becoming quite apparent that leggings are not going anywhere anytime soon. It's time for women to start embracing this trend turned fashion mainstay. Luckily, there are several different styles from which to choose to match your own personal style. When worn right, leather leggings are a chic alternative to basic cotton styles.

Instructions

1. Get the fit just right. When wearing leather leggings it is essential that they fit like a glove. Any sign of bunching around the crotch or knee area will throw off your entire look. Because leggings of any material tend to run on the small side, be sure to try on several different sizes and styles before making your choice.

2. Consider the weather. Leather leggings are best worn during cooler months. Wearing leather leggings on a hot summer day will not only have you sweating profusely, you might have a hard time getting out of them since leather seems to shrink in the heat.

3. Accessorize accordingly. For an evening look, choose shoes with a heel. Strappy stilettos, square-toe pumps in black, print or a bright shade, and heeled leather boots work best. The key is to elongate the leg. For a more casual daytime look, try a pair of wedge booties. There are many styles with a peep-toe that come to the ankle; these are chic and trendy. If you're a sporty girl, lace up a pair of fashionable sneakers with your leather leggings to dress them down.

4. Have fun coordinating different tops. Go bold by pairing your leggings with one of the season's hottest trends, cropped tops. These look best with mid- to high-rise leggings and allow a little slit of bare midriff. For a more conservative look, try a flirty tunic. Tunics in silk, satin, or a thin cashmere play nicely against the tougher look of leather.

5. Walk with confidence. Any way you style them, leather leggings make a bold statement. Match your personality accordingly. Stand tall and walk with grace for best results!

Tips & Warnings

• For those who don't wear leather, there are plenty of faux options to choose from that look very similar to the real thing.

References

• Harper's Bazaar: Stay Warm, Look Sleek
• Elle: Leather Leggings

Resources

• Style.Com: Ohne Titel Fall