8 Shoes That Complete Any Leather Pant Look

Leather pants are often typecast as “nighttime clothes,” synonymous with the classic “going out” ensemble of daring tops and strappy sandals. While this iconic combination is undeniably glamorous, the potential of leather pants extends far beyond. The key to unlocking their versatility is all in the styling. When styled correctly, a pair of chic leather pants can smoothly transition from a casual daytime look to a polished, office-appropriate outfit (depending on your workplace's dress code), and yes, they can undoubtedly dazzle during a night out on the town.

Related: The Best Faux Leather Pants to Wear When You're Tired of Jeans

Below, we delve into a range of shoe options that can elevate your leather pant game. From classic black pumps to it-girl-approved sneakers and edgy moto boots—we’ve explored them all.

Classic Black Pumps

In this effortlessly chic look, the timeless elegance of classic black pumps shines through. These pumps serve as the perfect anchor for the relaxed yet edgy vibe of the baggy leather trousers and oversized white tee. The beauty of this look lies in its simplicity and the way each element complements the other. The black pumps, in particular, streamline the entire outfit, offering a sleek contrast to the looser fit of the pants and bringing in a polished element to the overall outfit.

White Out

Leather pants are typically seen as a staple for fall and winter, given their fabric composition. However, we challenge the idea of a season-specific wardrobe. Let's explore how you can stylishly wear your favorite leather pants in spring (before it gets too hot, of course.). Take inspiration from Hannah Bronfman, who expertly pairs hers with a floral print top. This choice instantly injects a springtime feel into the outfit.

Tips

Complementing the ensemble with white pumps adds a touch of brightness, flawlessly transitioning the leather pants into a lighter, spring-ready look.

A Pop of Red

The trend of adding a pop of red is taking the fashion world by storm this season, and we can’t get enough. Adding a fiery red shoe to an all-black ensemble is a great way to infuse a trending element into a classic look. But if you lean towards more subdued shades, you can still partake in the fun. Opting for a rich oxblood hue can provide a similar impact, offering a subtler yet equally stylish twist to your outfit.

Neutral Ballet Flats

Ballet flats, a timeless staple in any wardrobe, have recently undergone a bit of a facelift thanks to the “balletcore” trend. Designers have reimagined this classic with their own unique flair, introducing elements like studs, metallics, mesh, and satin - making the choices both endless and fun. Despite the allure of these new variations, something must be said for the timeless appeal of a great pair of neutral ballet flats. Pairing a chic, neutral pair with a sophisticated knit can elevate leather trousers from a rock-and-roll vibe to understated luxury. This combination effortlessly merges polished elegance with a hint of boldness, creating a uniquely balanced look.

Related: The 10 Best Ballet Flats of 2023 That Are Chic, Comfortable, and Far From Basic

Strappy Sandals

A sexy strappy sandal is a wardrobe's secret weapon; it can instantly elevate your look from day to night. Pairing these sandals with leather pants is a match made in heaven, epitomizing the ultimate going-out ensemble. This combination exudes a sophisticated yet edgy vibe, perfect for making a statement wherever the evening may take you.

Toying With Texture

This outfit is a prime example of mastering the leather-on-leather look. Amy Julliette Lefévre expertly tucks her leather pants into her boots, making them the focal point of the ensemble. The key to the success of this look lies in its monochromatic palette, featuring varying shades of brown. What truly sets it apart, though, is the mixing of textures: the boots boast a shinier finish compared to the pants. This contrast in textures adds depth and dimension to the look.

It-Girl Sneakers

We are obsessed with Em Rata’s unexpected styling choice. The model was recently seen sporting leather trousers, paired with Salomon sneakers. Salomon, known for being a favorite among gorpcore enthusiasts, brings an intriguing twist to the look. When matched with leather pants, these sneakers transform an ultra-sleek, edgy piece into something more relaxed, yet they still manage to maintain the outfit's inherent cool factor.

Motorsport

Sometimes, the best style advice is to lean into it. Dive into the edginess that leather pants offer by going full rock and roll and pair them with motorcycle boots. With a myriad of colors, hardware options, and styles available, this combination is a fail-safe choice for anyone going for that effortlessly cool look.

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