As the cooler months set in, temperatures plummet and walks to class are paved with snowy slush, even the most fashion-forward collegiettes are faced with a dilemma when getting dressed in the morning: how to look chic and on trend without sacrificing warmth in frigid weather. Collegiettes, you’re in luck, because we have the answer: leather!
Leather has been a major trend for some time, but winter is a great time to add some to your wardrobe since it’s both chic and warm. Not a fan of wearing the real thing, or don’t want to shell out the big bucks? There are plenty of great faux-leather options, too. So what are you waiting for? Read on to see how to update the leather trend for winter – all while staying warm in the frosty air.
1. Instead of skinny pants, try leather joggers
Skinny leather pants have been a trend for a while now, but why not try a twist on this chic closet staple and slip on a pair of leather joggers? Not only is this shape a major trend right now, but they’re the perfect, comfy, effortless-without-effort pant choice for those cold winter days when getting dressed seems almost impossible. These pants can be styled with almost anything, but we love them with layers. Try a favorite graphic tee with a gray cardigan and top it off with a military-style anorak jacket. Keep it comfy-chic with black pointy-toed flats!
2. Instead of all leather, try leather accents
Wearing leather doesn’t always have to be obvious. For the leather-wary, there are plenty of pieces this season that offer leather accents. Our favorite? Winter’s warmest knits with a hint of leather. Sweaters with leather accents are a great way to ease into the leather trend and stay warm in a winter staple. Try it with a basic pair of black, distressed skinny jeans (another piece we love for winter!) and chic ankle boots for that perfect tough-yet-understated look.
3. Instead of a coat, try a leather shearling jacket
These jackets can be just as snuggly as your favorite coat if you wear it correctly! We like winter’s version of the classic leather jacket – a leather jacket with shearling accents – to replace a winter coat. The trick is to bundle up and add layers to your look. Start with a sweater and distressed boyfriend jeans, and pile on layers as needed. Try a huge scarf in a cozy fabric, like wool. We like plaid for winter, which adds some flair to this classic look.
4. Instead of a leather skirt, try a leather dress
Ready to take the leather trend to the next level? Give your favorite leather skirt you’ve been wearing a rest and give the all-leather look a try with a dress. Dresses can be difficult to wear for winter, so bundle up! Add thick, patterned tights and a gray wool coat for extra warmth. Beat the winter slush with a classic pair of short, basic, black rain boots that combine fashion and function.
5. Instead of basic black, try an eye-catching color
Who said leather has to be black? If you want to stand out, shake things up and try an eye-catching color! Oxblood is chic and festive for winter, and it looks amazing in leather. Feeling something more neutral? Leather in a buttery tan color or wintry white adds a chic touch to your look. Colored leather makes a statement, so wear it with neutrals to balance it out. Top an oxblood leather skater skirt with a snuggly gray turtleneck sweater. Add tights and black ankle boots, and you have the perfect go-to look for holiday parties.
With leather pieces popping up everywhere in stores this winter, it’s easy to wear the leather trend and stay warm in the winter weather at the same time. Which leather pieces are you most excited to try out for winter, collegiettes? Tell us in the comments!