From rock-and-roll icons of the 70s to your mom’s style from the 80s, leather pants are back and more comfortable and cruelty-free than ever. Don’t get it wrong, denim is king (or queen) when it comes to staying warm, but sometimes switching it up and having another option is much needed. Luckily, leather weather is here, and adding these pants to your wardrobe will give a cool girl, fashion-forward upgrade to spice up any outfit.

Olivia Newton-John will forever be remembered for her role as Sandy in the 1978 film, Grease, but even more notably for her black skin-tight leather pants worn in the final scene. Not just popular with women’s fashion, The Beatles regularly rotated leather into their fits to embody the rock and roll spirit through more than just musical expression. Styles go, but they almost always come back, and as things only get better with time, so did the leather trend. 

You can find leather pants in almost any store or online, in a range of styles and price points to choose from. This look has evolved and adapted to accommodate all body types, so the iconic fear of squeezing into a tight pair of pants and barely being able to move is not a worry anymore. Retailers and brands are designing synthetic leathers that include spandex in the material to provide added stretch and comfort. This pair from edikted feels almost as if you are wearing buttery soft leggings, while still maintaining the look of leather. Even more important than comfort, most options are all made from cruelty-free materials. With vegan options available, animals are officially safe from this fashion trend. Bloomingdales and other department stores offer a wide range of choices all in one place, so look around, stay open-minded, and find what will suit you best. If skinny fits are not for you, flare and wide-leg leather pants are very popular and easy to find right now. 

When it comes to color, black is a staple. But don’t be afraid to branch out and try other popular fall shades like brown. Camel is a luxe color that, when paired with leather, is bound to elevate your style and have people respecting and remembering your look for days. 

To complete the look, a long sleeve bodysuit tucked into high-waisted leather pants is a solid go-to. Throw a flannel on top for a more casual look or a fluffy teddy coat for added warmth. Depending on the length, flat or tall booties are a fall staple, or an open-toe heel can be a way to dress it up. Either way, the options are unlimited, and the leather pant trend is a must for everyone to try this season, so don’t fall behind!

Written by: Grace Bercher, Photography: Esha Uddaraju, Design: Anna Keller, Social Media: Mackenzie Davis