Fall Fashion 2009 – Black Leather
There’s a hard edge vibe this fall and much of that is coming from all the leather we’ve been seeing out there. Leather is extremely popular this season, especially black , because it signifies a strong independent woman.
If you want to buy into this trend, but worry it’s too rock and roll for a grown-up gal like yourself, you have a point! Black leather can look tough harsh and tacky after a certain age, so you have to be mindful about how you incorporate it into your wardrobe.
Here’s a few tips on how to do it without looking like an worn out old biker chick:
| Avoid Head to Toe Leather:
Head to toe leather looks tough and flat. Instead pick one leather piece to be your focal point and mix it up with a dress or skirt in a different material. An all black look always comes across as chicer when you combine varying textures. (Saks) |
 A single leather piece is more elegant than head to toe leather |
| Ruffles
If wearing leather makes you feel too tough, then try adding a feminine detail like ruffles like this great coat is from (Nordstrom) |
 Ruffles take leather to new feminine heights |
| Pair with a Flowy Blouse:
a soft flowing blouse adds softness to hard edged leather.(White House Black Market) |
 A silk blouse brings a ladylike touch to hard edged leather |
| Use Leather as an accent:
If you just can’t get your head around leather, but want to look fashionable, why not use it to accent a part of your body such as your waist. (Saks) |
 A touch of leather is all you need to be in style |
| Don’t choose leather cliches: Do we have to say it? No black leather mini skirts |
 no... |
| No fringe….. |
 no! |
Nothing plain weird!!!! |
 no!!!! |
| Choose Modern Shapes and Styles:
Think elegant, not rock and roll and you’ll get it right. This beautiful quilted, rolled collar jacket is classy, but still very cool.(Saks) |
 This quilted jacket with rolled collar is all class
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How about a leather skirt that is not a mini (just above the knees) when softened as explained above and not worn with other leather?
Hi Mary,
Sure Leather skirts are fabulous…just not a mini. At the knee or just above the knee is best, and try wearing your leather skirt with with black tights and tall boots for a great look. Above the waist you can wear a silky blouse to soften things up, or a jacket, or top that is not leather. You’ve got the right idea!!