Is it a hot take to call leather pants a neutral? Even if that’s an unpopular opinion, I’m willing to defend this point until the bitter end. No capsule wardrobe is complete without a pair, and if you don’t yet own one, I’m positive you will be amazed at how easily it can transform your weekly looks.
Paired with a blazer, T-shirt, or even lingerie, I’ve rounded up 11 celebrities as perfect examples of how to style leather pants. Ahead, find all the outfit inspiration—and product recommendations—you need.
A White Top
When in doubt, a white top will always look good with black bottoms. But then again, not any old basics will do. To ensure this doesn’t devolve into a derivative or boring ensemble, look for separates that are luxury-tier quality. Craftsmanship and good design are timeless.
A Fitted Bodice + Wide-Leg Pant
Sofía Vergara really did the damn thing here. Immediately, I need a pair of wide-leg leather pants with an elastic waistband for the comfort alone! This is the perfect use case for the age-old trick of contrasting silhouettes: One element is flowing and oversized while the other is fitted.
A Coordinating Set
If denim on denim is a Canadian tuxedo, what do we call leather on leather? I’m open to suggestions, but in the meantime, the point remains that coordinating separates is a no-brainer way to look pulled together without putting in that much effort.
Blazer + An Edgy Touch
Okay, Kate Hudson! This is a look I could easily see myself wearing. You could certainly style any pair of leather pants with a blazer, but bonus points if you go for something with a bit of extra flair, like her lace-up trousers.
A Pop of Color
Maybe you would rather not leave the house in head-to-toe fire engine red (but if you do, we have some inspiration for you there, too), but there’s a lesson to be learned here, I swear. Your leather pants don’t have to be black—and I emphasize: You can buy non-black clothes.
Sharp & Sculptural Lines
Ugh, the perfect specimen. Is there anything Zendaya looks bad in? The way she wore this lady jacket with a bit of skin showing is a masterclass in sexy yet stylish dressing.
Dressed Down with a Tee
One of my go-to dressing formulas is adding a T-shirt to almost any bottom. It offers a more casual, street style vibe to outfits that might otherwise lack personality. I’m partial to a graphic tee, but rugby shirts or soccer jerseys are very on-trend this year.
Classic Black and White
I touched on black and white for Bella Hadid’s look earlier, but here is another fantastic example from Heidi Klum. While Bella’s look is better suited for weekends or after-hours, this option is ideal for work.
Accessorize, Accessorize, Accessorize
Of course, Cynthia Erivo made sure to have some emerald green accents. She is nothing if not consistent. The combination of this sweater and these trousers stands out to me for the laidback, boyfriend fit they provide. The jewelry, hat, nails, and mega-platform heels spice things up.
With Something Sexy
Looking for date night outfit inspiration? Or maybe you’re still not sure of what you’re wearing for Valentine’s Day. You can thank Sydney Sweeney for this bright idea. Few pairings are sexier than leather and lace.
A Long Coat + Turtleneck
Last but certainly not least, I had to include an option for my capsule wardrobe dressers. I’ll say it again: Leather pants are neutral! As such, they look amazing with fellow staple items, such as a knit turtleneck and a trench coat.
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