The Spanx Faux Leather Leggings have been a Nordstrom Anniversary Sale mainstay for a couple years now, and they continue to get rave reviews from those who purchase them. Unlike real leather leggings, these from Spanx are machine washable, stretchy, comfy, and far more wallet-friendly. Faux leather leggings have been a fashion trend for several years and they don't seem to be going away any time soon. But what to wear with leather leggings, be they real or faux? Below I share how to style faux leather leggings, with a focus on the styles of faux leather leggings from Spanx.
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How to Style Faux Leather Leggings
Faux leather leggings are a bold move, and not one that can be worn anywhere and with anything. One false move and you end up looking like Sandy at the end of "Grease" (no shade on "after" Sandy, that was my dream look for most of my tween and teen years). But let's focus on the everyday...
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If you work in a creative office, you may be able to get away with leather leggings. The key, as mentioned with the previous outfit, is to ensure your rear is properly covered. Look for boyfriend-style blazers and longer lightweight silky blouses with great drape to cover beyond the waistband without adding bulk. To keep from being too Sandy from Grease, balance the rocker black with white, pastels, and delicate yet not shy jewelry.
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Because these leggings have such a trim fit, they're great to wear with longer tunics and shorter dresses. The black shine of the faux leather leggings can stand up to a bold color. However, keep other accessories relatively simple and clean so it's not statement overboard. A pair of flats with a pointed toe will elongate the look and keep it from looking like loungewear. A long pendant necklace in silver cools the citron and also breaks up the color.
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What Shoes to Wear with Faux Leather Leggings?
The best choice is a pair of sneakers. Whether they're trainers or a trendy pair, the juxtaposition of athletic gear with leather is quite chic and will steer you clear from "Sandy" territory.
If you're looking to dress up the leggings for work or evening, consider a pair of pointed toe flats, or a boot with a bit of toughness.
Sleek ankle booties and pumps in black leather may be a safe bet, but the look can be too super hero. If you choose this kind of shoe, be sure to balance the look with a clearly professional and polished or relaxed and voluminous top.
What To Wear (and What Not to Wear) with Faux Leather Leggings
While you can wear whatever the heck you want and I will completely support you and root you on, if you're unsure how to style leather leggings here's some tips on what not to do to make them look as stylish as possible.
- Don't pair your leather leggings with a leather jacket. This will take you from "Sandy" territory to Leather Tuscadero territory. If you need to wear a jacket, consider a cargo jacket in a neutral like olive or a denim jacket.
- Balance the shine with other textures. Faux leather leggings with shiny satin or sequins is only appropriate in Vegas or on stage. For the everyday, you want to temper the shine of leather. Fleece, chunky knit sweaters, cashmere, denim, and angora are all great fabric to pair with the leggings to keep the look luxe yet relatable.
- Keep Jewelry Delicate. Big, bold pieces paired with shiny black leggings can end up being too much of a look. Delicate chains, small rings, a single watch or chain bracelet, thin hoops or studs is often the best choice when styling leather leggings.
- Don't Be a Trend Salad. Leather leggings are a lot of look, and usually look best with more subtle pairings. They're not the thing to wear with a cold shoulder or sheer blouse or statement shoes. If the rest of your outfit is a bit quieter your leather leggings then can sing.
- Keep it Casual. An oversized denim shirt with a pair of sneakers can be the best things to wear with faux leather leggings. Unlike regular leggings, the faux or regular finish will elevate your weekend basics and make the look chic, not as though you just rolled out of bed.
- Think Contrasts Not Costume. Rocker leather leggings with a corporate blazer. Black leather with cashmere in a soft pastel color. The shine of the leggings paired with chambray or a plaid flannel. The way to make these leggings look great is to treat them as though they aren't leather; style them as you would a pair of skinny pants or ponte leggings and you'll have the best results and not look like you're wearing a costume.
