Years and years from now, the trends that took off in 2020 will be of great interest to fashion historians. Many of them (i.e. anything falling under the loungewear umbrella) will be pretty self-explanatory. Others, like the subject of this story, not quite so much. Faux (or vegan) leather is a trend that started to bubble as soon as Nanushka entered the scene a few years ago, so perhaps the fact that the trend started pre-pandemic explains why it’s so popular. Faux leather clothing isn’t new but it’s undoubtedly reached a fever pitch in 2020, and tons of brands are in on it.
So how do we know the trend is reached a fever pitch, aside from seeing it among a slew of retailers’ stock? Well, Who What Wear’s very own senior analyst Alexandra Flowers shared that people are shopping for faux leather clothing 105% more than last year. And items such as shirts, jackets/shackets, and trousers, joggers, and leggings have been the top sellers among our readers.
If you’re wondering why faux leather has become one of the top trends of 2020 (for proof of that, just take a scroll through your Instagram feed), I have a few theories. For starters, even the most inexpensive pieces look surprisingly expensive, with some even passing for genuine leather. Additionally, it’s surprisingly soft and flexible (unlike genuine leather), and given its nature faux leather makes anything its paired with look significantly cooler.
With that, keep scrolling for some faux leather styling tips and to shop some of the best pieces to add to your wardrobe.
Our editor Yusra styled these amazing Zara pants to a T.
Of course Zara has perfected the trend.
Be prepared to hear “cute dress” a lot when wearing this.
These Simonett pants are beloved by the cool girls of Instagram. Keep scrolling to shop them for yourself.
Ah, the layering possibilities.
This slightly cropped, boxy top is so easy to wear.
These Rowen Rose faux leather overalls come with a matching face mask, and I’m obsessed.
Nanushka is basically the king of the faux leather trend.
Just a heads up that these beauties come in black too.
A faux leather blazer and Converse sneakers is an excellent combination.
A faux leather blazer is a great starter item if you’re new to the trend.
Paperbag waists remain a celeb-favorite pants style.
I don’t know about you but I can’t get over the price of this chic LBD.
If you live in a warmer climate, this outfit idea is for you.
