From buttery soft jackets to cool-girl trousers, leather is the go-to fabric for all of your autumn wardrobe needs, says Amy Norbury
A leather jacket is one of those truly perennial style staples which always rises to the occasion. Come rain or shine, it’s the go-to throw-on for myriad occasions and myriad outfits. Hell, I even wore my own trusty leather jacket over my wedding dress to shield my sequins from the downpours on my big day.
Leather and autumn is a combination which has continued to thrive from the catwalks to the high street for years. But for AW22, the leather look – real and faux – has been seriously amped up.
Designers galore packed their seasonal shows with new and unexpected iterations, taking leather from stylish outerwear choice to layering hero. Bottega Veneta’s luxe leather skirts certainly wowed the crowds, while Loewe’s minidresses, Isabel Marant’s leather layering, and head-to-toe looks at Alexander McQueen and Celine certainly made a statement. Dresses and skirts, skirts and tank tops, jumpsuits and trousers – the message was clear; leather is the way to go.
When it comes to skirts, minis are having a fashion moment, made ultra-wearable by teaming with chunky knit jumpers and thick tights. If ladylike elegance is more your vibe, below-the-knee pencil skirts or swishy pleated midis in subtle hues are given an edge in leather form.
If you’re looking to embrace the look wholeheartedly, keep an eye out for a leather update on the classic shirt or wrap dress, or even a rock chick-inspired leather boilersuit for the epitome of just-threw-it-on casual cool. Don’t be afraid to team leather with more leather too; a leather shirt with matching wide-legged trousers is the new co-ord we all need this season.
If black feels too much of a tough biker-chick vibe, then take a look at the rainbow of stunning shades perfect for autumnal dressing. Creams, caramels and tans are perfect for creating a lighter, brighter look while if you want to go dark, swap black for delectable chocolate, khaki or cherry hues for a more subtle take.
Accessories are where colour really comes into play; update your run-of-the-mill black leather boots with a more playful hue to inject a touch of sass into any outfit.
