The Real Chic Life

Recently I wrote about the return of fur and how it was having a moment in fashion. There’s another fabric that’s dominating winter trends—leather. Last season I noticed that leather accessories, outerwear and separates seemed to be everywhere. And this season it’s still going strong. Even if your style doesn’t lean edgy, leather works with a variety of personal styles and has a way of instantly elevating an outfit. It feels polished and undeniably chic, especially in winter. You don’t need to splurge on designer pieces to work leather (or faux leather) into your cold-weather wardrobe in a thoughtful, stylish way.

Here’s how to embrace the look at any budget (click the photos to shop).

Start With Leather Accessories

As always, if you’re new to a trend or style, accessories are the easiest (and most affordable) entry point. A structured belt, sleek gloves, or a classic crossbody bag can completely change the feel of an outfit. I’ve seen so many stylish women wearing sleek leather gloves with a classic coat and they always look very put together. Even a faux leather headband or clutch adds texture and polish without a big commitment.

Chic tip: Focus on neutral tones like black, chocolate brown, or deep burgundy—they’ll pair effortlessly with what you already own.

Look for Faux Leather Done Right

Many affordable brands offer buttery-soft faux-leather pieces that look surprisingly luxe. Look for pieces with a matte finish and a bit of structure. They tend to look more expensive than super-shiny styles.

Faux leather trousers and midi skirts are especially versatile and often far less expensive than genuine leather alternatives.

Layer Leather With Cozy Textures

Winter is the perfect season to balance leather with warmth. Pair leather (or faux leather) with knits, wool coats, or oversized scarves to soften the look and make it feel approachable. Try a faux-leather skirt or pants with a chunky sweater or a faux leather jacket layered over a hoodie. This contrast keeps you looking modern and effortless.

Shop Off-Season & Secondhand

One of the best ways to score real leather on a budget is by shopping off-season. If there’s a genuine leather piece on your radar (and you don’t think it’s in danger of selling out) consider bookmarking it and waiting until it likely goes on sale during the warmer months. If you choose pieces with a classic silhouette there’s no danger of it becoming untrendy by fall (more on this below). Many brands also discount their cold weather styles right after the holidays, so now might be the perfect time to pick up a leather piece. Thrift stores, consignment shops, and resale apps are also great places to find genuine leather jackets, skirts, and bags at a fraction of the original price. A well-made leather jacket, even pre-loved, can last for years.

Choose Classic Silhouettes

If you want to invest wisely, timeless shapes are your best friend. A simple bomber jacket or moto jacket, straight-leg faux-leather pants, or a tailored skirt will age far better than trendier cuts. Classic silhouettes also make less expensive materials look more elevated. If it looks good with jeans and a sweater now, it’ll likely still work next winter too.

Use Leather as a Statement, Not a Uniform

You don’t need to wear head to toe leather to make an impact. One piece at a time is enough. Let it be the focal point of your outfit and keep the rest simple—this approach feels intentional and chic.

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Leather bridges the gap between timelessness and current trends, making it a versatile addition to your wardrobe that never truly goes out of style. With thoughtful styling, smart shopping, and a focus on versatile pieces, you can work it into your winter wardrobe in a way that feels elevated, wearable, and very chic.

Xo, Courtney