Trend Report: Transitional Leather
If you've popped by a store in the past month or seen images from just about any of the fall runways, no doubt you know that the look du jour is all about leather—indisputably! While the little leather jacket has been a wardrobe staple for countless seasons, lately designers are turning their attention away from this ubiquitous piece and exploring other silhouettes and styles. Now that the material (and many great faux alternatives) is no longer relegated to simply outerwear and accessories, we're spotting leather-focused looks on all kinds of ladies, ranging from society mavens to stylish models. And if today's fashion plates aren't reason enough to try the trend, consider the fact that this trend is definitely going to loiter for at least another season or two. Trust us: we logged no less than fifty leather looks on New York's S/S 10 runways!
But before we get into next season's trends, let's examine the way trendsetters are wearing these pieces now. Obviously the most intense looks involve head-to-toe leather, like the Proenza Schouler jumpsuit Chloe Sevigny wore to a magazine launch party a few months ago. The directional suit is from the line's S/S 09 collection and definitely offers the edgiest version of the trend. Of course, you can get a semblance of Sevigny's panache without fully committing to a black leather onesie; simply look for trousers instead. Not to discount one of our favorite fall essentials, but we think Geren Ford's Pleated Leather Pants
($595) and Jenni Kayne's Leather Trousers ($895) are wonderfully wearable options. Additionally, you could pick up a pair of menswear-inspired shorts, like Charlotte Ronson's Leather Shorts with High Waist
($193), which will still be on-trend come spring.
If you're not sure Sevigny's statement style is for you, but you're still feeling bold, take some outfit-inspiration from model Chanel Iman. Spotted at a Julianne Moore-hosted dinner in honor of Bottega Veneta's Tomas Maier, Iman impressed us with her draped leather dress. The Nero Washed Lambskin Dress ($3900, 877.362.1715) is a stunner thanks to its soft lines and feminine shape, which are both gorgeous and unexpected; the design offers the perfect contrast to the material's inherent toughness. While similar styles are definitely going to require some financial investment, we did sleuth out an incredible and affordable iteration: Eksempel's Sleeveless Leather Look Dress ($192).
Of course, if you'd prefer to mix a smaller leather element into your outfit, you've got loads of wardrobe role models to emulate as well. We always like the look of a black leather skirt, whether it's a pencil style ŕ la Agyness Deyn or something sexier, like the banded mini Lily Donaldson wore to the Richard Hambleton exhibition during New York Fashion Week. The marvelous Ms. Donaldson looked every inch the major model in her snug skirt and seriously waist-cinching belt (the former is an insider find from Golde while the latter is the La Haute Belt ($395) by Kiki de Montparnasse). Just keep her styling choices in mind and mix the industrial leather with something lighter, like a super soft t-shirt or tank. While we're wild about Vince's Bondage Leather Mini Skirt ($695), if you're not ready to splurge, be sure to check out Silence & Noise's Tiered Faux Leather Skirt ($78) or the Warehouse's Buckle Leather Mini Skirt ($128), which comes with its own belt-like details.
Our final favorite way to work leather into our autumnal wardrobe is best illustrated by Byrdie Bell, who gave us a fashion crush when she threw on a cool moto vest over a long girly gown for the same Richard Hambleton party (what a fete!). Though her Yigal Azrouel dress is unquestionably gorgeous, it could feel a bit precious for anything less than a black-tie event. But when worn with G-Star's Correct Gilet ($480), the combination suddenly seems completely cool and relevant for less-dressy occasions. The leather vest is also a great piece to wear with more casual fare as well. In fact, it can be used to add interest to a simple outfit, much like the way one accessorizes with an oversized patterned scarf. We adore Topshop's Sleeveless Leather Biker Gilet ($170), but in addition to these boxy moto styles, there are also a number of more-fitted pieces on the market. Try bebe's Leather Knit Back Vest ($149) for a slim, slightly Edwardian look or Erin Wasson x RVCA's Hard Loser Leather Vest ($209) if your taste tends to run on the rock'n'roll side of things. Whatever your style is, you're sure to find at least one way to incorporate transitional leather into your current look!
But before we get into next season's trends, let's examine the way trendsetters are wearing these pieces now. Obviously the most intense looks involve head-to-toe leather, like the Proenza Schouler jumpsuit Chloe Sevigny wore to a magazine launch party a few months ago. The directional suit is from the line's S/S 09 collection and definitely offers the edgiest version of the trend. Of course, you can get a semblance of Sevigny's panache without fully committing to a black leather onesie; simply look for trousers instead. Not to discount one of our favorite fall essentials, but we think Geren Ford's Pleated Leather Pants
If you're not sure Sevigny's statement style is for you, but you're still feeling bold, take some outfit-inspiration from model Chanel Iman. Spotted at a Julianne Moore-hosted dinner in honor of Bottega Veneta's Tomas Maier, Iman impressed us with her draped leather dress. The Nero Washed Lambskin Dress ($3900, 877.362.1715) is a stunner thanks to its soft lines and feminine shape, which are both gorgeous and unexpected; the design offers the perfect contrast to the material's inherent toughness. While similar styles are definitely going to require some financial investment, we did sleuth out an incredible and affordable iteration: Eksempel's Sleeveless Leather Look Dress ($192).
Of course, if you'd prefer to mix a smaller leather element into your outfit, you've got loads of wardrobe role models to emulate as well. We always like the look of a black leather skirt, whether it's a pencil style ŕ la Agyness Deyn or something sexier, like the banded mini Lily Donaldson wore to the Richard Hambleton exhibition during New York Fashion Week. The marvelous Ms. Donaldson looked every inch the major model in her snug skirt and seriously waist-cinching belt (the former is an insider find from Golde while the latter is the La Haute Belt ($395) by Kiki de Montparnasse). Just keep her styling choices in mind and mix the industrial leather with something lighter, like a super soft t-shirt or tank. While we're wild about Vince's Bondage Leather Mini Skirt ($695), if you're not ready to splurge, be sure to check out Silence & Noise's Tiered Faux Leather Skirt ($78) or the Warehouse's Buckle Leather Mini Skirt ($128), which comes with its own belt-like details.
Our final favorite way to work leather into our autumnal wardrobe is best illustrated by Byrdie Bell, who gave us a fashion crush when she threw on a cool moto vest over a long girly gown for the same Richard Hambleton party (what a fete!). Though her Yigal Azrouel dress is unquestionably gorgeous, it could feel a bit precious for anything less than a black-tie event. But when worn with G-Star's Correct Gilet ($480), the combination suddenly seems completely cool and relevant for less-dressy occasions. The leather vest is also a great piece to wear with more casual fare as well. In fact, it can be used to add interest to a simple outfit, much like the way one accessorizes with an oversized patterned scarf. We adore Topshop's Sleeveless Leather Biker Gilet ($170), but in addition to these boxy moto styles, there are also a number of more-fitted pieces on the market. Try bebe's Leather Knit Back Vest ($149) for a slim, slightly Edwardian look or Erin Wasson x RVCA's Hard Loser Leather Vest
I want the Geren Ford leather shorts for spring...
Posted by: Tori | 2009-11-17 18:57:31
Chloe's outfit gives her a front bum
Posted by: rach | 2009-10-04 22:27:03
question with leather jackets/bombers - should they be worn alone and stand out, or can I pair it with one of the many colorful scarves in my closet?
Posted by: jules | 2009-10-01 11:00:39
I understand the appeal, but I think that these outfits look a bit contrived... (maybe sans the the mini... it's cute). My opinion is when you use a piece out of context to make it look completely new it's always better. For instance I got this great chocolate brown soft leather jacket called "The Nomad Leather Jacket" at this biker site called www.mmccleather.com. It is fantastic and real biker gear... I can't believe the prices and the quality for real leather. I can't wait for it to get cooler so I can wear it with all kinds of looks.
Posted by: jewels | 2009-10-01 10:38:54
leather makes me feel sexy!! http://iloveilovefashion.blogspot.com
Posted by: love-love | 2009-10-01 10:00:44
I LOVE WEARING LEATHER BUT IT DOESN'T LOOK WELL IN ANY OUTFIT. IT IS OK FOR JACKETS, PANTS, LEGGINS, BUT NOT FOR DRESSES FOR EXAMPLE, IT'S OVER THE TOP.
Posted by: MAISON CHAPLIN | 2009-09-30 23:06:07
Chloe Sevigny's outfit is HIDEOUS. Its very unflattering (too much fabric near her stomach and her left breast is popping out on the side). I'm sorry, but would anyone actually wear this, especially transitioning into winter?
Posted by: Ash | 2009-09-30 20:21:56
i would love to see more rachel zoe, lindsay lohan, or olsen twins please :)
Posted by: Lizzie | 2009-09-30 19:37:17
Lily Donaldson's outfit is fantastic.
Posted by: nicole | 2009-09-30 18:01:13
all these lovely leather pieces and it's way too hot here to wear anything like that! jealous
tofuscloset.blogspot.com
Posted by: casie | 2009-09-30 17:56:01
lekisskiss.blogspot.com
Posted by: Francesca | 2009-09-30 15:03:52
Chanel Iman is the only one that looks really nice! Chloe Sevigny - WHY?!!
Posted by: Amy | 2009-09-30 14:35:02
All of these leather pieces are just stunning. Love that banded mini...Shopping to find your key leather pieces for the fall/winter season can some times be as difficult as bikini shopping! Lol! I personally fell truley, maddly, deeply in love with a killer leather jacket from Grai that I picked up at Blue Bee. This thing is the personification of perfectly imperfect perfection! Hope everyone is having a great Wednesday! Cheers!
Posted by: Nixx81 | 2009-09-30 14:05:31
Chanel Iman looks great but the rest look like they're riding a tired trend.
Posted by: Hannah | 2009-09-30 13:29:33
I love leather, but none of these pieces are flattering or striking.
Posted by: lianna | 2009-09-30 12:25:32
I love the second look! the outfit is great for concerts.
Posted by: Alice Mercado | 2009-09-30 09:45:15
I think leather is a vry fun way to mix up an otherwise an all black outfit. It adds an unexpected twist. Check out our blog: lekisskiss.blogspot.com
Posted by: Valerie | 2009-09-30 09:39:41
These are lovely, but there is a VERY small population of people who could pull it off! So, keep that in mind, ladies; and ask yourself if you're one of them before wearing a leather jumpsuit!
Posted by: Llew | 2009-09-30 09:12:20
TO ASH: I've worn leather skirts to work. I always make sure they are all the same color: skirt, tights, shoes which works great as a slimming, elongating trick. You are right about the minis, not such a good idea for work. I would always get nice comments from the other ladies. I cannot wait for my weather to turn cooler. Have fun!
Posted by: Lizzie | 2009-09-30 09:09:27
Hillary and Katherine: Live on the Sunset Strip! Oh, I wish I could make the drive north to meet you girls. Best wishes -- Break a leg!
Posted by: Lizzie | 2009-09-30 08:59:36
Love the second look, and that's about it.
Posted by: MEP | 2009-09-30 08:59:26
Question: leather skirt ok for work? I'm thinking black might be too much but what about a tan or brown? Appropriate length of course, and probably with tights. ?????????
Posted by: Ash | 2009-09-30 08:44:19
I love what Chanel Iman is wearing. Very "supermodel" And kind of looks like Naomi in this picture.
Posted by: TNN | 2009-09-30 07:43:01
thank you who what wear for this post leather should be in everyone's closet this season for sure and i cannot get enough of the erin wasson x rvca vest my favorite line of the season as most people know about me already viva la erin. "http://noirblancetrougepartout.blogspot.com">noirblancetrougepartout.blogspot.com x
Posted by: s | 2009-09-30 06:48:26
Chloe's outfit is soo unflattering! loving leather this season though!
Posted by: Laur | 2009-09-30 06:04:41