How to wear leather trousers this winter

Images courtesy of Aligne, Massimo Dutti, Zara, Warehouse, Schuh, Mango & Arket.

For dressing up, dressing down and everything in between, leather trousers are your answer to these 6 winter dressing outfit combinations.

Lottie Franklin

3 December 2022

I could wear a pair of leather trousers every day of the week and not get bored. They are surprisingly versatile and comfortable, as well as an instant fix for feeling that extra bit more dressed up than wearing a pair of jeans. They literally add more polish to an outfit.

Styling leather trousers in winter is simple if you think about two things: textures and trouser lengths. First up, I like to contrast my leather trousers with soft textures, like knits and silky tops and avoid a head-to-toe leather look. Then, when I’m picking a trouser length, I try to avoid flashing too much skin around my ankles to avoid that awkward shin gap between trousers and boots.

I’m often asked who sells the best leather trousers that don’t cost a fortune and my immediate answer is Mango. I’ve had a pair of faux leather trousers from Mango for years and I bring them out every winter. The lining is really soft and cosy and they have just the right amount of stretch that they’re comfy to wear all day long.

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Recently, I’ve discovered that Abercrombie & Fitch has a super-flattering curve range and styles that feel premium for under £100, so I am adding them to my list, as well as Forever New, Pull & Bear, River Island, Warehouse and Zara who all have lots of faux leather trousers to choose from for £50 or less.

Here are my top six outfit ideas for how to wear leather trousers, from casual weekend outfits to going out looks:

Christmas drinks: Patent trousers and heels

Patent trousers + sheer tops + metallic bags + sequin heels – the ultimate Christmas combo, IMO. For a smart casual look for going out, contrast festive glitter with edgier patent trousers. Take a look at our guide to what to wear underneath sheer tops to complete the look.

Cosy casual: Cropped with chunky boots

If you’re a fan of chunky Chelsea boots and biker boots, keep your leather trousers cropped just above the ankle like this straight leg style. Your boots will kick out at the bottom, without flashing any skin.

Sporty casual: Long leather trousers with trainers

Long leather trousers look great with sporty trainers for a smart casual outfit. Layer with a soft sweater and oversized coat over the top, whether you’re Christmas shopping or going to Winter Wonderland.

Work vibes: Flare trousers with ankle boots

These slim-fitting leather trousers with a subtle flare and slits are a smart option when teamed up with an oversized belted blazer. The slouchy fit of this Aligne style is at the top of my wish list for work days when I want to feel dressed up for day to night.

Glam: Skinnies with over the knee boots

For upping the glam, tuck a pair of skinny leather look jeans into over the knee boots. Contrast textures with suede boots, a velvet blazer and a lace cami underneath.

WFH: Joggers and boots

Leather trousers are actually so comfy. Who knew? Especially, when they have soft linings and elasticated waistbands like this pair from Mango. I’ll be wearing these on days working from home when I still have to pop out for meetings.