Leather shorts are a wardrobe staple that can be dressed up or down effortlessly. Though often considered edgy, leather shorts can also exude sophistication and class with the proper styling. From night outs to daytime adventures, learn how to style leather shorts for any occasion.
Choose the Right Fit
Choose a fit that flatters your body shape when selecting your leather shorts. Here are some top picks:
High-Waisted
High-waisted leather shorts are universally flattering. The extra fabric through the waist helps define your figure while keeping you covered. Go for a pair that hits right at your natural waistline.
Relaxed Fit
For a casual daytime look, try relaxed-fit leather shorts. The looser cut is comfy while still showing off a hint of leg. Make sure the shorts don’t sag or droop.
Short Shorts
Short shorts make a sultry style statement for the night. Look for a pair that grazes mid-thigh. Anything faster risks looking costumey.
Pair with the Right Top
Your top sets the tone for your whole leather shorts outfit. Some winning combinations include:
Graphic Tees
Nothing says relaxed and casual like a graphic tee. Opt for comfortable fits in cotton or modal. Tuck just the front in for a polished touch.
Cropped Tanks
Cropped tanks are made for high-waisted bottoms. Choose loose crochet knits or silky camis. Add a jean or a leather jacket when it’s chilly.
Oversized Button-Downs
For an effortlessly chic look, don an oversized men’s button-down shirt. Leave it open over a bralette, or tie it at the waist.
Lace Bralettes
Make a sultry statement by pairing a dainty lace bralette with your shorts. Show off a bit of midriff for a flirty finish.
Sweaters and Cardigans
When temperatures drop, try an off-the-shoulder sweater or drapey cardigan. Cashmere and Angora blend add luxury.
Mix Textures
Leather has an innate texture, so use contrasting fabrics in your tops and accessories. Consider:
- Silky camisoles
- Lightweight knits
- Flowy chiffon blouses
- Cozy cotton tees
- Crocheted details
- Sheer mesh accents
Choose Complementary Colors
Stick to a tonal color palette for your leather shorts outfit. Monochromatic combos keep the look sophisticated. Some chic color pairings include:
Black on Black
Of course, classic black-on-black always works. Play with different black hues and textures.
Brown on Brown
Rich chocolate browns pair gorgeously with black leather. Add cream and caramel accents.
Gray on Gray
Mix warm and cool grays with black shorts. Add pops of white and pastels.
Olive with Neutrals
Earthy olive leather shorts look stunning with nudes, whites, tans, and light pinks.
Red with Black
Make a bold statement by combining crimson or maroon leather with black tops.
Style with Layers
Leather shorts outfits beg to be layered. Start with fitted bases, then add drapey layers on top. Ideas include:
- Formfitting tanks or bodysuits
- Flowy kimonos or dusters
- Lightweight button-downs or flannels
- Denim jackets or vests
- Longline cardigans or sweater coats
- Cocoon coats or trench coats
Finish with Footwear
Now for the fun part – choosing your footwear! Leather shorts work with almost any shoe style. Consider:
Ankle Boots
Chelsea, jodhpur, and combat boots are perfect counterparts to edgy leather shorts.
Pointed Flats
For casual daytime wear, opt for classic pointed flats or loafers. Try animal prints or metallic for a punch.
Strappy Heels
Show off legs even more with barely-there heels. From stilettos to block heels, any height works.
Sneakers
Give your look street-style cred by pairing leather shorts with white or metallic sneakers.
Sandals
Finish your shorts with flat sandals, wedges, or espadrilles when temps spike.
Add Eye-Catching Accessories
Accessories complete your leather shorts outfit. Play with layers of necklaces, chokers, dangly earrings, stacks of bangles and rings, bold belts, and eye-catching bags. Mix metals, stones, and materials for lots of visual interest.
Conclusion
Leather shorts are a versatile basic that can easily take you from running errands to happy hour. Follow the tips above to develop your own signature leather shorts style. Most importantly, have fun with new outfit combinations and wear what makes you confident. Leather shorts are for everybody – flaunt yours!
FAQs
1. What colors pair well with black leather shorts?
White, gray, olive, and muted earth tones beautifully complement black leather shorts. Contrast the texture with silky or sheer fabrics.
2. How should leather shorts fit?
Leather shorts should fit close through the hips and thighs without digging, sagging, or gaping. The waistband should sit smoothly at your natural waist.
3. What tops work with high-waisted shorts?
Cropped tanks, knotted shirts, fitted bodysuits, and loose flowy blouses balance high-waisted shorts. Tuck tops in or tie them up for a polished look.
4. What shoes to wear with leather shorts?
Ankle boots, strappy heels, pointed flats, sneakers, and sandals perfectly complement leather shorts. Match metals and aim for comfort.
5. What kind of jacket goes with leather shorts?
Denim jackets, leather moto jackets, lightweight dusters, long cardigans, and trench coats style beautifully with shorts—layer on light jackets for transitional weather.
