Leather accessories and accents have become a popular way to add a subtle edge to any outfit. From leather jackets to harness-inspired straps, leather elements introduce texture, interest, and just a touch of swagger. Incorporating leather accents allows you to put your own spin on classic silhouettes and gives a nod to biker, punk, and 90s grunge aesthetic influences. Leather also has an inherent sensuality, so adding it to an outfit amps up the allure factor. Read on to discover different ways to show some skin and lend a subtle edge with leather accents and accessories.
Leather Jackets Provide a Timeless Rebel Vibe
Nothing lends an instant badass appeal quite like a leather jacket. These rock n’ roll essentials have been worn by greasers, bikers, punks, grunge icons, and style mavericks alike. A leather jacket makes a statement while also providing a durable outer layer. Choosing a leather jacket is highly personal, as it becomes an extension of your style. Here are some classic leather jacket styles and tips for selecting your perfect rebel vibe.
Moto Jackets
The moto or motorcycle jacket remains the quintessential leather jacket for men and women. Characterized by an asymmetrical zip front, lapels, and zippered pockets, moto jackets have a close fitting silhouette that flatters most body types. They most frequently are made of smooth leather but can also come in suede. Opt for bold black or brown leather, or go for a pop of color like classic red. For a more modern take, try moto jackets with updated elements like interesting hardware and zipper details or paneling.
When selecting a moto jacket, look for one tailored to your body type. It should fit snugly but allow room to layer underneath. High armholes will allow ease of movement. Try different lapel styles to find your most flattering neckline. The length of your moto jacket makes a style statement – cropped versions have a rebellious edge while mid-length show off curves. Longer moto jacket lengths evoke a sophisticated biker vibe.
Bomber Jackets
Often considered a modern leather staple, the bomber jacket offers versatility and hip streetwise appeal. Characterized by their zip or snap front, ribbed cuffs and waistband, and frequently sporty color-blocking, bomber jackets have an athletic vibe as well as edge. Bomber styles made of leather or suede add stylish dimension. Look for versions made of supple lambskin or goatskin leathers for a more luxe touch.
Today’s bomber jackets come in infinite style varieties. Cropped and oversized shapes put a fresh spin on the bomber’s tomboyish roots. Details like mixed fabric sleeves update the look. Whenever you want to add polish, try a sleek leather bomber. Wear a black leather bomber jacket over flowy dresses, jeans, or jumpsuits for an effortlessly cool contrast.
Biker Jackets
As the name implies, the biker jacket was created to protect motorcycle riders from wind and debris. This rugged style translates beautifully for fashion purposes with its quintessential asymmetrical zip-front and collar snapped down to guard the neck. The close fit, heavy hardware, epaulets, and belt tabs at the waist and hem all lend to the tough, renegade vibe.
Look for versions made of thick, durable leather with quilted or ribbed paneling for added warmth and style interest. Whether in classic black, cherry red, or chocolate brown, you can’t go wrong with a biker jacket. It perfectly complements everything from flirty feminine looks to everyday denim. Stay true to the biker aesthetic with skinny jeans or leather leggings.
Choosing Your Perfect Leather Jacket
When selecting any leather jacket, look for quality craftsmanship in thick, durable leathers like lambskin, steerhide, or deerskin. Check that seams are cleanly finished. Opt for neutral colors for maximum versatility or make a bold style statement with colored leathers. Look for a jacket with a flattering fit that allows room for layers underneath.
Consider stylish accents that reflect your personal aesthetic – metal hardware, belts, snaps, and zippers all lend edge. Don’t be afraid to try vintage or unique choices like a patchwork leather jacket. Investing in a well-made leather jacket will ensure it becomes a staple of your wardrobe for years. Break it in and customize it with pins, patches, paint, or studs. Let your leather jacket tell your style story.
Harnesses Add Allure and Attitude
Leather harnesses offer an unexpected way to lend subtle edge to ensembles. While evoking bondage references, leather harnesses have moved into mainstream fashion as accents that are more about attitude than raciness. When incorporated thoughtfully, harnesses complement outfits ranging from rock concert casual to black-tie attire. Explore harness styles to find options that suit your personal style.
Chest and Shoulder Harnesses
Leather chest and shoulder harnesses typically incorporate straps that wrap horizontally around the chest then extend vertically over the shoulders. This style provides just a peek of skin and the allure of bondage undertones while maintaining coverage. Thin spaghetti straps have a dainty effect. For added flair, look for harnesses with O-rings, chains, buckles, and cutout details.
Harnesses lend visual interest layered over tank tops, crop tops, and tube tops. Let one peek out from under blazers or leather jackets for a subversively sexy accent. Try a chest harness over a slip dress or let one Replace straps on a sundress or camisole. When styling, keep other elements pared down and let the harness be the focal point.
Underbust Harnesses
An underbust corset harness accentuates the waist and flatters curves. This style features a panel that contours the torso topped by horizontal straps that wrap below the bust. The straps may extend over the shoulders or transition into another styling such as a halter neck. This shape plays with the suggestion of corsetry and bondage in a way that spotlights a woman’s assets.
Underbust harnesses pair well with crop tops and bras or bathing suit tops. The torso wrapping panel provides coverage and structure while the peek of skin at the midriff and decolletage adds allure. Underbust harnesses work beautifully to toughen up girly dresses and skirts. Try one over a pencil skirt and crisp button down for a provocative work look. An underbust harness layered under a blazer conveys inner toughness.
Leg and Hip Harnesses
For an edgy bottom half accent, explore leather leg and hip harnesses. Styles may incorporate straps wrapping horizontally, vertically, or diagonally around the upper thighs and hips. This placement draws the eye and highlights curves in a provocative way. Leg harnesses work well layered over tights, leggings, jean shorts, and mini skirts. Let the straps peek out from under a midi skirt slit or dress train for an unexpected reveal.
Look for wrap-around hip and upper thigh harnesses with cut-outs and hardware details like buckles and O-rings. Or choose a full fishnet body stocking with crisscrossing leather harness-style straps for a bold rock n’ roll statement. Use leg harnesses to toughen up ultra-feminine looks or pair them with equally edgy elements like moto jackets. They bring fetish undertones to the forefront in flattering fashion.
Have Fun and Flaunt Your Assets
Approach leather harnesses as a stylish accent rather than a full fetish look (unless that’s your intention). When styling, let the harness be the focal point and keep other elements pared back. Harnesses look best highlighting your best assets, so consider your body type when selecting placement and strap styles. Look for well-crafted leather pieces for durability and comfortable fit.
Most of all, have fun expressing your inner rebel. Harnesses allow you to play with suggestive bondage references in ways ranging from tongue-in-cheek to risqué. Embrace your inner rockstar or dominatrix. Layer a leather harness over your favorite concert tee, slip dress, or power suit to shake up your style with an added dose of allure.
Leather Skirts Make a Statement
For a bold way to flaunt some leg, consider incorporating a leather skirt into your wardrobe. Leather skirts come in an array of shapes and lengths perfect for any occasion. A leather mini skirt makes a daring style choice. Try a leather pencil skirt for a dose of sensuality with office-appropriate polish. From sleek to sassy, leather skirts lend an instant dose of attitude.
Mini Skirts
Nothing amplifies sex appeal quite like a leather mini skirt. Highlighting legs and rear assets, leather minis garner attention. The most provocative versions hit mid-thigh or higher. Look for details like asymmetric hem slashes or buckles and hardware. Pair a leather mini with tights and boots for nightlife allure or balance the sex appeal with an oversized sweater or blazer on top.
Have fun with different textures mixing leather with lace, silk, or knitwear. A leather mini is versatile enough to go from day to night. For the office, style with a button-down blouse and blazer. Then swap in a crop top and strappy heels for your evening look. A leather mini skirt makes a statement whenever you wear it.
Pencil Skirts
For a more polished yet sensual leather skirt choice, consider the pencil silhouette. Fitted through the hips and tapering gently to just below or above the knees, a leather pencil skirt flatters most figures. This style easily transitions from work to date night. Look for leather pencils with vents, slits, or asymmetry to add flair.
Style a leather pencil skirt with tucked-in blouses or sweaters plus heels for the office. Swap heels for strappy statement sandals after hours. Try tucking a graphic tee or tank into a leather pencil skirt for weekend wear. For night out glam, pair with a bustier or cropped camisole. A tailored leather pencil says sophistication with an extra dose of sensuality.
Midi & Maxi Lengths
For a fashion-forward leather skirt choice, explore midi and maxi lengths. Leather skirts that hit below or at the knee make a striking style statement, especially when paired with crop tops, tanks, or bras. Look for draped and pleated leather midi and maxi skirts for on-trend allure.
Longer leather skirts pair well with flowing chiffon and silk blouses. Tuck in a chunky sweater or crop top to accentuate the waist. Layer chunky silver necklaces over a basic tank or tee to complement a leather midi. Slouchy boots toughen up the look. Swap in strappy heels to go glam. However you style them, leather midi and maxi skirts make an entrance.
Find Your Perfect Cut
No matter what length or silhouette you choose, look for a leather skirt made from quality leather such as lambskin or deerskin with finished inner seams. Seek out styling details that express your flair like asymmetry, slits, hardware, grommets, or mixing leather with mesh or lace paneling. Consider fit and silhouette to enhance your best assets.
Look for a leather skirt that hits just above the knee if you wish to highlight legs or cute boots. An ultra-mini demands confidence and perfectly pairs with cropped tops. Choose a floor-grazing maxi version to play with volume and drama. Have fun styling your leather skirt du jour with contrasting feminine and edgy elements for unforgettable ensembles.
Leather Shorts Show Some Leg
Few garments highlight curves, elongate legs, and show some skin like leather shorts. These flattering bottoms instantly toughen up any look. Leather shorts offer provocative cool perfect for weekends and nights out. Style them with crop tops, tanks, and distressed denim for effortless allure. Add some rocker edge to your summer style with a pair of chic leather shorts.
Hot Pants
Daring short short styles are aptly named, and leather hot pants take sizzle to new heights. Show off your stems and rear assets in butt-grazing lengths. Look for hot pants with details like zippers, lacing, ties, or strategic cutouts. Rise varies from low-slung hipster to high-waisted retro. Whichever you select, these barely-there bottoms guarantee all eyes will be on you.
Balance ultra-short hemlines with a longer top. Try an oversized boyfriend blouse, asymmetric tunic, or midriff-baring crop top. Leather hot pants work well with strappy heels and wedge sandals for leg lengthening lift. Finish the look with a moto jacket for biker babe appeal. When you dare to bare in leather hot pants, your style exudes adventure.
Classic Five-Pocket Styles
Channel your inner bad girl in classic five-pocket leather shorts styled after vintage denim and uniform pants. Characterized by front button and/or zip fly plus back patch pockets, this silhouette typically hits mid-thigh for a cheeky yet versatile length. Pair leather five-pocket shorts with tanks, tees, and cropped knits.
Look for leather shorts in bold red, ivory, or denim washes. Distressing and fading give a nod to their denim roots. Pair with sneakers or platforms for daytime edginess. At night, swap in stilettos for vixen appeal. Leather five-pocket shorts easily go from rebel cool to biker babe glam.
Bermuda Lengths
For a slightly more conservative but still sensual leather short, choose the Bermuda length. Hitting a few inches above or just at the knee, Bermuda shorts provide more coverage while flaunting legs. This length showcases curves in a flattering way. Bermuda leather shorts pair well with both casual tanks and blouses plus dressy tops and blazers for date nights.
Details like front pleats, cargo pockets, and button accents give tailored polish to leather Bermudas. These shorts can be dressed up or down seamlessly. Pair with a graphic tee, flannel, or hoodie for weekend edge. Don matching suit jackets and blazers to make leather Bermudas office and evening appropriate. Their versatility makes Bermuda leather shorts a wardrobe staple.
Find Your Ideal Shorts Fit & Style
No matter what length or silhouette you select, look for shorts made of quality leathers like lamb, deerskin, or kidskin. Seek soft, supple hides that mold to your shape. Look for clean finishing inside and out. Bermuda and short five pocket styles should fit trimly and flatteringly just below your rear. Hot pants demand a second-skin fit.
Have fun with bold colors and hardware details like buckles, zippers, lacing, and rivets. Distressed leather with fraying and fading provides a nod to denim. Shake up your look by playing with proportion and pairing oversized tops with short shorts. Most importantly, select leather shorts that make you feel confident and daring when you slip them on and step out.
Leather Bottoms Lend Sensual Edge
Beyond skirts and shorts, a variety of leather bottom styles allow you to put a sensual yet polished spin on any look. Leather pants, leggings, and jumpsuits contour curves and highlight your best assets. Explore supple leather trousers, joggers, and jumpsuits to discover silhouettes perfect for you.
Leather Leggings & Pants
Finding that perfect pair of leather pants starts with choosing a fit and silhouette suited to your figure. Look for styling details that express your personal flair. Hug every curve in liquid leggings or balance sensuality with structure in wide leg trousers. Here are some top leather bottom styles and tips for choosing yours:
- Skinny leggings – Form-fitting leather leggings have a bodycon vibe. Look for leggings in ultra-supple lambskin, deerskin, or kidskin that move with you. Pair with oversized sweaters, tanks, or long tunics. Heels or booties dress up the look.
- Moto leggings – Give your leggings streetwise edge with moto detailing like knee panels, side knee zippers, and ankle zips. Moto leggings toughen up any top. Add a leather jacket for head to toe rebel cool.
- Flared trousers – Make a stylish statement in leather flares. The dramatic silhouette offsets fitted tops perfectly. Flares look great dressed up with platforms and down with chunky sneakers.
- Wide leg pants – Balance sensuality with tailoring in chic wide leg leather pants. The billowy silhouette flatters most figures. Pair with crop tops, tanks, or fitted turtlenecks.
- Cigarette pants – Look polished yet alluring in ankle-grazing fitted leather cigarette pants. The slim cut is workplace appropriate but also sexy. Dress up or down effortlessly.
- Jodhpurs – Give equestrian styling a modern twist in leather jodhpurs. These slim pants have ribbed panels inset along the hips through knees. Pair with riding boots for flair.
Sleek Jumpsuits
For the ultimate leather look, try a head to toe jumpsuit. Leather jumpsuits range from menswear-inspired utility styles to sultry lace-up bodysuits. Eye-catching details include side cutouts, grommets, and asymmetrical necklines and hemlines. Look for a jumpsuit silhouette that complements your shape – tailored, flowing, or bodycon. Then rock your leather in one piece.
Balance the sensuality of a leather jumpsuit with casual details like sneakers or distressed denim jackets. Heels and statement jewelry play up the va-va-voom factor. Whichever style you select, a leather jumpsuit guarantees all eyes on you. Make a sleek black leather jumpsuit your go-to for making an entrance day or night.
Accessorize with Leather Accents
Beyond leather garments, a world of accessories exists to lend any look instant edge. Leather belts, headwear, gloves, shoes, and purses add texture, interest, and a touch of rebel cool.
