Living In Leather
The Ultimate Guide to Styling Leather Jackets to Achieve the Model Off Duty Look
Written by Emily Fleming, Fashion Staff Writer
With cold temperatures approaching as quickly as ever, I’ve been spending more time planning my outfits for the inevitable frigid weather that will soon fully hit Madison. How long until my biker shorts will be permanently left in my closet until spring brings warmth back to Madison? Is it still too warm for my mom to send me my thigh high boots?
While rummaging through my closet, and simultaneously spending too much time looking at fall trends on TikTok and Pinterest, it can be difficult to draw inspiration from my wardrobe without feeling the need to go out and purchase new clothes. However, there are many ways to use a single piece of clothing that you already own to build various outfits from.
A major trend for the fall and winter 2020 fashion season is the “model off duty” look. This trend is effortless and casual, ultimately making it perfect for any occasion. One versatile component that can pull together this look is a leather jacket.
A leather jacket can be dressed up or down, which is why it is one of my favorite staples to have in my closet. For class, a black leather jacket, a pair of baggy blue jeans, a neutral or jewel tone crewneck and a pair of white sneakers can be the perfect comfortable look for a study date or walk to pick up food. In addition, I always find that adding bold jewelry like a chunky chain necklace or big hoop earrings can make an outfit immediately look more put together.
Another way I love to style a leather jacket is with black square shaped sunglasses and a monochromatic sweatsuit—my go-to look is a light gray crewneck and matching sweatpants—which is perfect for rolling out of bed in the mornings to grab coffee. Since that outfit is very neutral, I’ll frequently reach towards a bright colored or animal printed mask to add a pop of color. When it comes to athleisure wear, throwing on a leather jacket over a matching sports bra and leggings can make the transition from a walk with a friend to a Kamps livestream workout class easier than ever.
If it’s a weekend or I just have an urge to get dressed up, I’ll pair my leather jacket with patchwork jeans, or brown plaid pants and any neutral colored crop top. Additionally, styling any corset top with black jeans, a plain black mask, and your jacket thrown over your shoulders can be the perfect look when you want to feel glamorous. Another one of my favorite looks is pairing a mini dress, a leather jacket, and a pair of thigh high boots. Sneakers are also a great way to make a dress more casual; A dress with sneakers instantly gives off the cool girl vibe, which is the heart of the model off duty look.
Although it can sometimes be overwhelming trying to achieve a certain look just by staring at everything in your closet, choosing one staple clothing piece and revolving the rest of your outfit around that one piece can make it that much easier to put together. The essence of the model off duty look is keeping it simple, neutral, and comfortable.