How to Work Leather Into Your Look

How to Work Leather Into Your Look

Every once in a while a trend comes along that bridges the gap between seasons, transitioning perfectly and allowing our bank accounts to breathe for a hot minute. Fresh New York Fashion Week, I was elated to discover that leather, faux of course, will continue its Fash takeover all the way through spring 2013. Naturally I instantly started plotting which pieces would lend to the most potential repeats. With a budget pleasing mindset, I've pulled together my two faux leather must-haves that will keep you stylish for seasons to come.

Feminine Faux Leather Skirt:

Let the guilt-free shopping begin. A killer leather skirt is sure to become a classic repeat piece for countless seasons. Not to mention, the girly skirt will help contain the dreaded biker babe comparisons many fear when dipping into the leather pool for the first time. In order to authentically acclimate trends into your wardrobe, a firm grasp on your personal style is paramount. Let's face it, Anna and edgy are about as fashionably compatible as tie-dye and camo, which is why a skirt is always my go-to when it comes to testing out trends. With countless color options available this season, from hunter green to pale pink, it's never been a better time to make your first leather purchase. Add tights for winter and prepare to pair your faux leather with lace and floral prints for spring.

Fash Tip - If you're looking to take leather into the workplace via a killer pencil skirt, it's important to tone down its obvious sexiness by styling it with polished pieces like a tailored blazer or a feminine blouse.

Timeless Faux Leather Jacket:

Without question, a faux leather jacket is a timeless piece we should all invest in. The luxe appearance and textural contrast it instantly adds to an ensemble will always be a great way to show that you have an eye for style. My favorite way to rock this must-have for fall is with a maxi. The usual summer staple has transitioned into fall thanks to designers pushing it such as Rachel Zoe and Rebecca Taylor. The addition of a faux leather jacket assists in the seamless segue of seasons. For a casually edgy look try pairing your jacket with an oversized white tee and nylon leggings. For a sweeter take, go with an above the knee drop waist dress and Mary Janes.

Fash Tip – Make your jacket pop by pairing it with falls most popular hues, mustard and burgundy.

Looking to branch away from these leather basics? Add a fash twist to your wardrobe by styling one of these trendy faux leather pieces!

Dressy Leather Look:

1. Cotton On Faux Leather Peplum Top, £30
2. Posh Locket Cube Cuff, £20
3. Bauble Bar Triple Layer Necklace, £68
4. LC Lauren Conrad Platform Heels, £38.97
5. The Outnet Polka Dot Skirt
6. The Outnet Pleated Clutch, £177.75

Casual Leather Look:

1. J. Crew Peter Pan Collar Tee, £75
2. LC Lauren Conrad Ballet Flats, £38.49
3. Mimi Boutique Faux Leather Satchel, £57.50
4. Posh Locket Black Crystal Ring, £28
5. Posh Locket Disc Ring6. River Island Black Retro Sunglasses, £13.00
7. Oasis Faux Leather Trousers, £40.00 If the leather look is too much for your wardrobe, try incorporating it slowly with a faux leather handbag, ankle booties, or a blouse with leather accents. These simple leather-like statements will make a huge impact.

Leather and Lace

Lace was a major trend on the Spring 2013 runways. It was spotted everywhere from Valentino and Burberry to Elie Saab and Saint Laurent (formerly known as “Yves Saint Laurent”). I love the idea of returning to delicate, feminine dressing. And lace is just the material for this fashion comeback. Like all runway trends, translating an all-lace ensemble to everyday life isn’t exactly realistic for most of us. (Could you imagine showing up to class or your internship clad in an all-lace pantsuit? I didn’t think so.) To work this look into your wardrobe I suggest styling lacy elements with more tailored or masculine pieces, such as a sharp blazer or a relaxed moto jacket. This way you can give a nod to this ultra ladylike trend while providing yourself with some coverage. Plus, I just love the combination of super feminine pieces with masculine items. It creates an interesting contrast and gives an outfit more depth.

In this outfit I styled together a button up lace blouse with one of my favorite Topshop jackets. (By the way, Topshop has a great selection of affordable leather/faux-leather jackets. I believe the top is from Urban Outfitters…) I love the contrast between the tough jacket and the soft lacy blouse and how it’s offset by my deep red manicure. It all ties together and it’s a great go-to outfit for a variety of occasions.

How will you style leather and lace?