Sorry, Slip Skirts—Chic Women in NYC and Paris Prefer This Expensive-Looking Alt in 2026
Slip skirts will never go "out of style", but this autumn there is an edgier alternative that will see you through winter too. Keep scrolling to see the transitional skirt that well-dressed women are wearing now.
There is no denying the allure of a slinky slip skirt, but there's just something about a powerful leather skirt that has its own indisputable impact. There's a dichotomy between the two styles that gives equally important yet very different feelings (and you can change an entire outfit just by switching one for the other). Slip skirts, though, lack the durability and warmth that leather skirts possess, which is key to surviving the colder months in style. Whether you're heading to the office or dressing up for a night out, leather skirts manage to be both practical and undeniably chic when temperatures begin their descent towards the end of the year.
Just in case you're not sure how to style the fashion insider's favourite winter slip-skirt alternative, below is a curation of six looks that will make introducing leather skirts into your rotation this season a breeze. You can thank us later.
1. Sweater + Slingbacks + Pencil Skirt
Style Notes: A classic grey knit will complement a midi skirt every single time, and Anouk's cashmere and leather combination is a tried and tested formula that is perfect for the chillier months. Snakeskin slingbacks and silver accessories add a sophisticated touch to the look, and keep things in a cool colour palette that channels the start of winter.
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A year round staple.
Such a beautiful, rich khaki tone.
Just the right amount of lift without being uncomfortable.
2. Jacket + Turtleneck + Midi Skirt + Boots
Style Notes: Opting for a tonal ensemble with a brown suede jacket and richer chocolate skirt gives this skirt layers of depth that you just can't get from a white tee and jeans. Tie it all together with a black turtleneck and coordinating black accessories for extra polish, and bonus point if you manage to factor in a sculptural boot.
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This also comes in a lighter, camel shade too.
Everlane have mastered quality basics.
Slightly more expensive than you would expect from the high street, but worth it for 100% leather.
I've been wearing these exact boots for years.
3. Pastel Cardigan + Pencil Skirt + Flats
Style Notes: Soften up your tough black leather skirt with powder pink and soft textures that work unexpectedly well. A fuzzy pink cardigan, playful opticals, and satin flats create the perfect juxtaposition—a little bit sunny and cute, a little bit dark and mysterious. Just the like the summer to autumn transition.
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Such a sweet shade of pink.
Perfect for tucking the cardigan hem into the waistband.
These come in five equally cute colours.
4. Tank Top + Colourful Bag + Column Skirt
Style Notes: A bright pop of colour in the form of an electric-green bag accents Aniyah's a white tank top and black leather midi skirt outfit with just one easy addition. Brights not your thing? Feel free to switch up the colours to match your style too, the possibilities are endless, but the most important part of this look is the elegant column skirt that has a more directional feel than a classic pencil.
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I always stock up on basics from H&M.
Sleek, simple, sophisticated.
I'd urge you to check out Anonymous Copenhagen for outstanding shoes with compliment-worthy designs.
Suddenly I'm sold on lime.
5. Leather Jacket + Matching Skirt + Heels
Style Notes: As soon as the temperature drops, a matching leather set makes for a chic nighttime ensemble. Finish off the look with a classic pair of black shades, kitten-heel slingbacks, and an east-west bag. Everything about this look is guaranteed to invite compliments.
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Such a luxe shade of red.
A pretty close match if I do say so myself.
Social media's favourite shades.
How to look like you've spent three figures when you've really spent under £35.
6. Sweater + Leather Wrap Skirt + Kitten Heels
Style Notes: Change up your leather-skirt styling with a wraparound style that feels better suited to warm weather than a bodycon silhouette. While we're talking about the classics, everyone has a great neutral, knit in their wardrobe, and navy and black always look expensive together, just like Jen Wonders deep toned outfit. Staple accessories include sensible black mules, oversized frames, and a woven bag. Et, voila.
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Ultra-soft and ultra-fine so you can start wearing this now.
An amazing find in the sale.
Wear with everything from jeans to summer dresses.
A Who What Wear editor's favourite.