5 Non-Dated Ways People in Paris, NYC, and L.A. Are Styling Leather Pants Right Now

This past fashion month, especially on the streets of New York City, one trend quietly reemerged among insiders: leather pants. As I watched showgoers take street-style photos and dash from one venue to another, I couldn't help but wonder, 'Are these making a full comeback for fall?' It's not that leather pants ever truly disappeared, but last season they certainly took a back seat.

Now, in November, with the cold temperatures settling in, it's clear they're back—more chic and elegant than ever. This time, style experts are pairing their leather pants with a fresh, elevated approach. Gone are the days of overly edgy combinations or relying on skinny leather pants; instead, it's all about sleek tailoring, thoughtful layering, and balancing slim-fitting garments with looser ones. Ahead, discover the leather pant outfit formulas fashion people are embracing and shop the key pieces you'll need to recreate their timeless looks throughout fall and winter.

Suede Bomber Jacket + Tee + Leather Pants + Printed Heels

A styling trick that fashion insiders often keep to themselves is their reliance on texture, proportion, and tone. This leather pant outfit exemplifies that approach. The chocolate brown contrasts beautifully with the shiny black, while the oversize, long jacket balances the slim, tailored pants. Then, the combination of suede and leather adds depth and interest. I can't forget to mention how the black and brown animal-print shoes complement the jacket and pants, and the white tee provides timelessness and a classic touch.

Shop the look:

Scarf Coat + Leather Pants + Mules + Clutch

When in doubt, choose a long wool coat, especially one with an attached scarf, and pair it with leather pants. The contrast between the soft wool and sleek leather feels intentional and modern, regardless of whether you layer a simple T-shirt, a satin blouse, or a chunky sweater underneath. To finish the look, slip into pointed-toe heels to mirror the coat's clean lines and carry an oversize clutch that you easily tuck under your arm.

Shop the look:

Trench Coat + Turtleneck + Leather Pants + Ankle Boots

In the following two examples, you'll see how fashion insiders in NYC sophisticatedly incorporate color into their leather pants outfits. Here, a burgundy turtleneck is carefully layered under a grayish-white blazer and a light-brown trench coat. The use of subtle, neutral tones gives this look a polished and modern vibe. Sticking with slim-fitting leather pants further emphasizes the elegant and contemporary style.

Shop the look:

Long Suede Coat + Crewneck Sweater + Leather Pants + Ballet Flats

Suppose you follow Lauren Santo Domingo, Chief Brand Officer of Moda Operandi and contributing editor at Vogue Magazine, on Instagram. In that case, you probably know that her outfits are always an A+—and that's because she focuses solely on elevated wardrobe basics. These are pieces with classic silhouettes and modern touches like a cinched waist or on-trend colors. Here, she styled slightly-flared leather pants, pairing them with a sage-colored crewneck sweater layered over a white tee (a winter styling trick that adds an It-girl touch), a taupe suede long coat, and pointed-toe ballet flats. For Santo Domingo, it wasn't about matching with an all-black outfit; it was about balance and proportions to make flared leather pants feel fresh again.

Shop the look:

Long Leather Coat + Argyle Sweater + Leather Pants + Clutch

Leather weather has arrived, and if you want to fully embrace it, opt for a leather jacket and leather pants. If you do, make sure you're choosing the right styles for both. For example, swap skinny leather pants for straight or baggy silhouettes, and instead of fitted zip-up leather jackets, go for a long, simple, single-breasted leather coat or a short, Saint Laurent-inspired bomber. Then, freshen up the leather-on-leather look with a trendy touch, such as an argyle sweater, as seen here.

Shop the look:

Shop more leather pants

Opening Image: @rosiehw