Leather has been used to make clothing for hundreds of thousands of years, and it is no wonder that it is still popular today. Leather is a material that is notoriously hard to style, but when done right, it can be a part of a very chic look. Leather jackets are extremely popular, but leather pants have long been overlooked.
You should think of leather pants as a statement piece, something that the rest of your outfit should complement. One of the most important things to consider when buying a pair of leather pants is the fit. Men’s leather pants come in many styles and sizes, and you should try on different pairs to see what suits your body shape before you buy them.
When it comes to styling men’s leather pants, I think smart-casual is the way to go. If you’re having trouble with putting an outfit together, read on for some simple styling tips:
A White T-Shirt
Since leather pants are considered a statement piece, you should try to keep the rest of your outfit simple. White t-shirts are simple yet understated. They’re versatile and can be worn with anything. A white shirt won’t detract from the leather pants, but if you want a bolder look, choose a graphic tee. Think of the pants as if they were your favourite pair of jeans, and style them with a pair of sneakers or high-tops.
A Denim Shirt
Denim and leather are the perfect pairing. A pair of black or brown leather pants and a simple dark blue button down is a great style choice. This outfit would be causal, everyday wear, much like the leather pants and white shirt combo.
A Knitted Pullover
As we transition from sunny summer afternoons to cosy autumn days, our clothes should reflect that. A knitted pullover in a neutral color and a pair of leather pants is the epitome of smart-casual and will keep you warm as they days get cooler. The leather pants will make this outfit a little edgier, without looking too preppy.
A Button Down
Chinos, slacks, and dress pants are all appropriate choices to pair with a smart button down, but if you feel that it’s too formal, swap out the smart trousers for your leather ones for a more relaxed, but well put-together look.
A Blazer
The definition of office wear has changed a lot over the years, and while looking smart is still important, there’s been a shift towards a more smart-casual style…which is wear leather pants come in. Try a pair of simple, unembellished leather pants to pair with a slim-fit blazer for a tailored office-ready look that can be dressed down at the end of the day.
An Overcoat
An overcoat is a wardrobe staple. The most versatile colours are grey and black, but if you buy one in a bold colour and pair it with a pair of leather pants, this would be an exception to the single statement piece rule.
A Leather Jacket
The most obvious thing to pair with a pair of leather pants is a leather jacket. Make sure the colour of the leather jacket matches your pants. I suggest avoiding anything too bulky, unless you’re going for the biker look or are going to costume party dressed as a 50s greaser.
Shoes
I’ve already mentioned wearing sneakers and high-tops with your leather pants, but what about other kinds of footwear? Chelsea boots can be worn with a smart- casual outfit, and a pair of combat boots can be worn for a more informal look. If you’re going to be wearing leather shoes with the pants, make sure that the colours are complimentary.
I suggest staying away from loafers, espadrilles, boat shoes, and sandals unless you feel confident enough to pull them off.
Leather pants are the perfect addition to any man’s wardrobe. The key to wearing a pair of leather pants, regardless of what you style them with, is confidence. If you feel good wearing them and you’re comfortable, then don’t worry about what anyone else thinks.
Leather is a fabric that requires a lot of maintenance, so be prepared to care for them properly so that they are long lasting.
Image Credits: LaughingRaven
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