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Think leather, think tight, clingy – and that look is best left to teenagers. Still associated with thigh-length miniskirts and 1990s spray-on pants that restrict breathing, hinder movement and make you sweat, leather can be more vulgar than va-va voom.
Even celebrities can struggle to pull off this look – Victoria Beckham is said to be haunted by the unflattering, skin-tight, matching black leather bomber jackets she and David posed in in 1999.
But breathe easy, the spring collections are full of clever, colorful leather pieces, cut to flatter and featuring none of the dated styles that might make you wince. Adult, sober and versatile, these are pieces that you can wear at any age.
Opt for a wide, flattering cut
Unless you’re almost 6 feet tall and wearing ultra-toned pins, leather leggings are unforgiving.
This season, choose loose pants with an exaggerated shape that will look like you’re wearing a skirt and add real luxury to your workwear wardrobe.
If you’re on the petite side, consider opting for a cut that reveals a hint of ankle so the shape doesn’t overwhelm you.
This wide-leg version of Me+ Em is also free of complicated back pockets, for a more flattering look from every angle.
YES: Luxury look: Leather pants, £690, and sweater, £225, average. com
NO: Too tight – Cat Deeley from this morning in leather pants
Couture coat
When it comes to the leather coat, think wide lapels and a defined silhouette as Kate Moss beautifully demonstrated at Paris Fashion Week.
Kate wore her coat open for a casual vibe that showed off her dress, but you can also turn up the collars and tighten your belt like French Vogue editor-in-chief Corine Roitfeld, who takes on the fashion — and leather — business. very seriously.
Soften the look by wearing something tactile and feminine underneath like sheer chiffon or delicate lace.
If you want to try a color, Oxblood can be an expensive alternative to the default black, as seen on the runway at Hermès.
But whatever you do, don’t be tempted to opt for a long leather trench coat in other bright colors. Instead, choose muted shades.
YES: Kate Moss in the muted trench coat
Green for no: Kylie Minogue
Bring biker chic up to date
Nothing will get you out the door faster than a black leather biker jacket sprayed in 90s style.
The most modern way to wear it is with a looser fit or ride in style with a Formula 1 inspired look.
Reiss has his own McLaren F1 collection featuring color block jackets, but for those who just want to flirt with the look, this putty version is a great buy.
Stars like Bella Hadid wore bolder versions, while Louis Vuitton showcased a patchwork piece on the runway for its 2024 collection.
YES: F1 style: leather jacket, £388, reiss.com
NO: Matching pair: Victoria and David Beckham in 1999
Matte or glossy
Leather says “look at me,” but shine tells you “for the wrong reasons.”
Matte leather generally looks more expensive, and good places to start are Wyse’s buttery-soft navy shirt and Whistles’ leather jacket, also in dark blue, which is supple for a more distressed feel.
If you want to try your hand at the shiny leather look, Zara’s Studio versions will definitely sell out. Pair it with Mary Janes (flat or heels) for a simple finish.
YES: Smooth as Butter: Navy Leather Shirt, £162.50, wyselondon.com
NO: Bling trash bag: Penelope Cruz
Mini switch for lunch
Forget acres of exposed thighs topped with a flashing strip of leather and you’ll miss it. This ship has sailed.
The much fancier midi is your instant spring upgrade.
Infinitely more portable, it’s versatile enough to suit any occasion. It has a clean and refined look with sneakers and a jersey top,
Or tuck in a sleeker white shirt and add a pair of kitten heels for more grown-up glamour.
YES: Versatile elegance: Tangerine leather, £390, and striped top, £160, cefinn.com
NO: Thigh high: Kim Kardashian in a leather mini