Why leather trousers are the ultimate wardrobe investment to make now
Leather always comes to the fore in the autumn/winter collections, with supple jackets, dresses and skirts a failsafe option for chilly days. But on the AW24 catwalks, leather proved especially prevalent, with designers from Acne to Alexander McQueen and Bottega Veneta showcasing a series of head-to-toe standout looks.
Of course, a shearling-lined jacket is an obvious piece to invest in, and a long leather midi skirt looks particularly chic with a pair of heeled boots, but the best way to work a little edge into your new-season wardrobe is with a classic pair of leather trousers.
But don't just take our word for it; the leather trouser has received the seal of approval from celebrities including Katie Holmes and Bella Hadid who have both turned to the style for various looks.
Style a pair of buttery black trousers with a tucked in white T-shirt or sweater, and you’ve got an instant, easy outfit that works for almost any occasion. (After dark? Just add red lipstick and a heel.) A crisp white shirt is a sharp counterpoint to a high-waisted, wide-legged silhouette, while chocolate-brown leather makes an especially good match for creamy neutral cashmere. Cropped cuts are on the cards too: try them with a block heel or knee-high boot for the best result.
So whether you’re investing in Bottega Veneta’s scene-stealing illusion leather or searching for a glossy black wear-forever pair, see the Bazaar team’s verdict on the very best leather trousers to invest in now.
Leather trousers to buy now and wear forever
Toteme
Classic and understated in their design, this pair of leather trousers from Toteme mirror the brand's 'quiet luxury' philosophy. With a mid-rise waist and straight leg, these pants offer a plethora of styling opportunities, from a relaxed t-shirt and ballet flats to a cashmere roll-neck and heels, and will see you through many years to come without question.
Frame
Nonchalant yet elegant, the cut of Frame’s Le Slim Palazzo pants is just right (as you'd rightly expect from a brand famed for its ultra-flattering jeans). They sit softly on the natural waist before falling into wide legs that sit at just the right length to look flattering when paired with both flats and boots.
£1260.00 at net-a-porter.com.uk
Alexander McQueen
No matter the material, you can always tell a pair of McQueen trousers by the inimitable tailoring. This pair is beautifully cut with razor sharp pleats for a structured effect that elongates the leg and adds as heightened elegance to any outfit.
Joseph
Joseph has long been known for creating some of the best leather trousers in the business. This particular style, the Tafira is cut from a supple leather to give it a flexible, contour-hugging fit that always feels comfortable. Practical points aside, the muted neutral shade paired with the tailored cut looks impeccably chic.
Massimo Dutti
This season, Massimo Dutti have presented a leather trouser in slightly different format with this suede. Made of a stretchy suede fabric, these pants are designed with a slight flare for a flattering, elongated fit.
Agolde
Those who want the look of genuine leather with the ease of extra stretch will love Agolde's Pinch Waist design. They're made from a low-waste blend of 50 per cent repurposed leather and 50 per cent stretch-infused synthetic fibres, so feel just like your favourite pair of jeans. Cut to sit snugly on the waist and fall in straight legs, they'll prove just as versatile, too.
£380.00 at net-a-porter.com.uk
Arket
High-street leather can be hit and miss, but Arket gets it right every time. The well-cut, flared silhouette of these supple trousers will hang beautifully, while the clean white hue feels on-point for the winter and will look great paired with other monochrome pieces or styled with a soft-knit neutral jumper.
Bottega Veneta
Possibly the most anticipated piece of the entire season, Bottega Veneta’s trompe l'oeil trousers have finally arrived. A seamless showcase of the brand’s unrivalled craftsmanship, they look just like a pair of love-worn denim jeans, but look a little closer to see they’re actually made from ultra-supple leather. Invest now, treasure forever.
Dorothee Schumacher
When cut from light and fluid leather, a wide-leg silhouette looks especially striking. Dorothee Schumacher has got the balance just right in this stellar pair.
Wandler
Coloured leather might not be for everyone, but Wandler’s tapered-leg trousers put forward a strong case for stepping out of your comfort zone. The baby-pink hue will make a collection of camel and beige separates feel fresh and new: try them with a sandy cashmere jumper and see.
Cos
Crafted to last, Cos' leather trousers sit high on your natural waist, before falling in slim legs to softly flared hems. Ending neatly on the ankles, they'll look especially chic with a pair of the new season's ballet flats.
Walter Baker
Brown is never really out of fashion, but this season in particular has really lauded the colour as the shade du jour. These soft camel-toned leather trousers are the best way to indulge: hitting just above the ankle, they’ll work with flats and heels alike.
8 by Yoox
Past-season e-tailer Yoox creates some stellar wardrobe essentials in its own-label line, 8. These leather trousers are cut to a wide-leg silhouette that feels instantly chic, and finished with minimal detailing to ensure total versatility.
Muubaa
In a glossy patent finish, these trousers from leather specialists Muubaa will add a glamorous edge to evening looks. Team them with a white tank top by day, then elevate with fluid cream silk after hours.
& Other Stories
Another strong entry from the high street comes from & Other Stories. These relaxed leather trousers feature a drawstring waist for a street wear edge that's comfortable enough to wear round the house and elevated enough for a pointed heel moment.
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