
Leather pants are a timeless wardrobe staple that can add edge, sophistication, and versatility to any outfit. Whether you're going for a rock 'n' roll vibe, a classic preppy look, or something in between, leather pants can be styled to suit any occasion or personal style. In this article, we'll share 10 fun and creative ideas for how to style leather pants, from cozy athleisure looks to bold and glamorous ensembles. So whether you're a seasoned leather pant wearer or a newbie looking to experiment, read on for some stylish and fun ways to wear this wardrobe essential.
Leather Pants 101: Rock n Roll Makes Its Way To High Fashion
While it’s reasonable to assume leather pants came of age in CBGB’s punk glory days, their history goes way back. Leather pants have a long and storied history that dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Greeks, Romans, and Mongols, who all wore leather garments for protection and warmth. In the 20th century, leather pants became popular with various subcultures, including bikers, rockers, and punks, who used them to symbolize rebellion and nonconformity.
In the 1980s, leather pants became a mainstream fashion trend thanks to pop stars like Madonna and Michael Jackson, who wore them on stage and in music videos. Today, leather pants are a staple of the fashion world and can be seen on everyone from street style stars to celebrities on the red carpet. They’ve gone from counterculture to office culture, with ways to take them from office to dive bar - and everywhere in between!
In recent years, leather pants have also become more sustainable, with many brands offering vegan leather alternatives that are just as stylish and durable as genuine leather. Whether you prefer real or faux leather, there's no denying that leather pants are here to stay as a versatile and fashionable wardrobe staple.

Leather Pant Style Inspiration: 15 Ideas For Styling Leather Pants
- Go for a rock 'n' roll vibe: Pair your leather pants with a graphic t-shirt, leather jacket, and combat boots. Add some statement jewelry and a red lip for a bold, edgy look.
- Get cozy: Pair your leather pants with an oversized sweater or cardigan and chunky boots. This look is perfect for a casual day out or a cozy night in.
- Embrace the athleisure trend: Pair your leather pants with a crop top, bomber jacket, and sneakers for a sporty yet stylish look. (Hint: there are plenty of athleisure brands offering pants in a leather finish.)
- Make it preppy: Pair your leather pants with a crisp white button-down shirt and loafers for a classic, sophisticated look.
- Keep it simple: Pair your leather pants with a basic t-shirt and sneakers or flats for an effortless, everyday look.
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Add some color: Pair your leather pants with a bright, bold top in a complementary color or some punchy heels. This is a great way to add fun and vibrancy to your outfit.
- Play with textures: Pair your leather pants with a fuzzy sweater or velvet top for a fun, textured look.
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Go glam: Dress up your leather pants with a sequin top, strappy heels, and statement jewelry. You’re ready for a night
on the town! -
Make it bohemian: Pair your leather pants with a flowy blouse, fringe jacket, and ankle boots for a free-spirited,
bohemian look. - Layer it up: Layer a turtleneck sweater or button-down shirt under a blazer or denim jacket for a chic, layered look.
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Go monochrome: Pair your leather pants with a top and jacket in the same color family for a trendy, monochromatic look. This is a great way to create a sleek and sophisticated outfit.
- Add some print: Pair your leather pants with a patterned blouse or sweater for a fun and playful look. Animal prints, florals, and stripes all work well with leather.
- Mix and match: Play with contrasting textures and fabrics by pairing your leather pants with a silk blouse, knit sweater, or denim jacket. This is a great way to create a visually exciting outfit.
- Make it edgy: Pair your leather pants with a studded or embellished top, ankle boots, and a statement belt for an edgy and daring look.
- Keep it classic: Pair your leather pants with a white t-shirt and a trench coat for a timeless, classic outfit that will never go out of style.
Keeping Inspired: Endless Ways To Style
Leather Pants
If you’ve found the perfect pair of leather pants and want fresh inspiration every month on how to wear them in new ways, magazines are a fun way to stay up-to-date on current trends. At Click N Read, we make it easier to enjoy the best in fashion magazines with deeply discounted subscriptions and upgrade options. Start browsing our selection here.