The best leather trousers on the high street (that won’t break the bank)
Leather trousers are having a renaissance, but it’s not as you have known them before.
A staple for the world’s rock and roll elite, leather trousers have long been heralded in the ‘cool girl’ hall of fame. Sported by only those worthy of such title like Kate Moss, Angelina Jolie and… Steven Tyler from Aerosmith.
For most, the idea of leather trousers conjures up images of Ross Geller unable to slide his impossibly tight pair back up his legs, despite making a special paste to help the situation.
This autumn, leather trousers are going mainstream. That’s not to say they are ditching their rock and roll lifestyle, but more, that they are bringing their undeniable edge to the masses. And we couldn’t be happier about finally joining the club.
Forget what you think you knew about leather trousers because the ones currently peppered on the high street bare no resemblance the daunting slick-to-the-body pair you are envisaging.
The current offering of leather trousers are wider in the leg – loose even – and cut to a cropped length, delivering the wearer ultimate chic points. As someone who avoid trousers on a regularly basis in favour of dresses or skirts, even I have submitted to the cause and snapped up a pair (to note: this was by far my most complimented outfit of the week).
These new universal-appeal leather trousers are about to change the way you dress, thanks to their infinite styling options. For workwear pair them with an oversized men’s shirt and brogues. For a more casual look slip on a sweatshirt and team your trousers with box fresh chunky trainers. For dinner (that will inevitably end in more than just ‘one drink’) try out your leather trousers with a neat t-shirt, barely there sandals and a sharp blazer. If it’s rock and roll points you seek, wear said blazer on your shoulders only… putting your arms through the dedicated arm holes is so 2018.
If hitting the high street feels a little daunting for this particular item, sit back, we have rounded up the best ones out there.
Arket
Arket leather trousers Leave it to ultimate Scandi brand, Arket for the perfect pared-back leather trousers.
Leather trousers, £250, Arket
Warehouse
Warehouse leather trousers For those wanting to step away from classic black, try out khaki leather trousers. The pocket detailing on this pair will give your look a cool utility feel.
Khaki trousers, £198, Warehouse
Jigsaw
Jigsaw leather trousers Make these Jigsaw trousers part of your workwear wardrobe now and wear with a crisp white shirt and slip-on mules.
Leather trousers, £299, Jigsaw
Marks & Spencer
Marks & Spencer leather trousers For those wanting an autumnal take on leather trousers, try out Marks & Spencer’s tan version and wear with a slouchy grey wool roll neck and trousers.
Tan leather trousers, £199, Marks & Spencer
& Other Stories
& Other Stories leather trousers Whilst the loose fitting cropped trouser is very much the style of now, there will always be a place for a more streamlined version. If that’s your aesthetic then & Other Stories has got you covered.
Leather trousers, £179, & Other Stories
Cos
Cos leather trousers Go big or go home was the motto for these Cos leather trousers. Best worn with a neat t-shirt, barely there black sandals and layers of gold necklaces.
Midnight blue leather trousers, £290, Cos
Images: Getty / Courtesy of brands