Stylist on a Soapbox: Leather for Fall

Aug 12th 2011 at 12:01AM by Marquette Heaven

I have been on a fall fashion kick lately. Of course the temperatures on the east coast are beyond hot right now, but that doesn't stop me from thinking about what will be hot for fall. Wide leg pants, pleats, choker necklaces and cuff bracelets, 70s fashion and leather. Yes, you read correctly: leather.

Simply wearing a leather jacket or leather boots is not going to please the fall fashion gods. The leather trend for fall is being seen in dresses, skirts, pants, and even leggings.

Leather is an expensive trend to embrace, because even when you can find a deal, prices can be hundreds of dollars. While leather trends can come and go, if you invest in a few, good quality leather pieces you may be able to keep these articles of clothing for years to come.

One of the easiest ways to wear leather this fall is a leather dress. You can do an all over leather dress, like this Sara Berman Belted Leather Dress ($265) or a dress that has special leather panel detailing, like this Diane von Furstenberg Christina Leather-Accent Dress ($498). Thankfully, biker chic is still en vogue because leather dresses are the perfect way to channel your inner Joan Jett.

If you are not necessarily a dress kind of lady but love to look feminine and edgy all at the same time, you may favor a leather pencil skirt like this Tracy Reese Stretch Leather Pencil Skirt ($495) or this Michael Kors Twill and Leather Skirt ($120). A leather skirt paired with a simple white button down shirt or a black turtleneck sweater just oozes sophisticated sexy.

You can't speak about the leather trend for fall without mentioning leather pants. What do you think about them? Leather pants, when worn the right way, can look chic but when worn the wrong way they can look downright cheesy. Classic leather trousers will be big for fall, as will skinny leather pants and leather jeggings like these Sara Berman Cropped Leather Pants ($200) or these Joseph Black Leather Pants ($840).

Leather is a trend that can be worn by everyone. You can glam it up, rock it out or simply wear it in a casual way. Leather attire can be a bit of an investment, based on the prices above. If you want to make a cool statement, leather may be just the way to do it.