I Thought I Was Loyal to Jeans, But This Trending Trouser Is Winning Me Over

I can safely say my (faux) leather trousers from Mango are the most worn item in my autumn wardrobe. I found them in the sale two years ago after trying to track them down for months, and I’ve worn them so many times they’re quite literally splitting at the knee. But I’ll continue to sew them up, because once you find a great-fitting pair of leather trousers, you’ll never go back. 

I will also tell you that they’re one of the most complimented items in my wardrobe. And I often get a shocked response when I tell people they’re years old. Something I also find when I wear them is my friends telling me “I would never think to wear leather trousers with a chunky jumper”, or “I would never think of swapping my jeans for leather trousers.” But that’s the thing, they go with literally any top, shirt or knitwear.

No matter whether you choose faux, vegan or real leather, though, I think it’s best to go for a looser fit. Because let’s face it, no one wants a Ross Geller leather pants moment when they’re so tight you have to peel them off. Want to know how to style leather trousers for winter? Here are 7 looks I’ll be trying out with my trusty Mango pair, and some other new-season iterations you can shop direct from below. 

Style Notes: There’s something so polished about the combination of black and brown. Pull together your staples to recreate this chic look. 

So many outfit formulas call for a classic black blazer. 

We’ve heard great things about this Aligne’s chrome-free leather.

Complete the look with trusty boots. 

Style Notes: Leather trousers needn’t always be black. Give them a fresh new season overhaul by opting for a coloured pair and team with a slouchy Breton. 

A trusty Breton t-shirt you’ll wear for years. 

These are so good. 

These will go with every outfit you own. 

Style Notes: It’s all about layering as we adjust to colder weather, and Charlotte shows how to make leather trousers feel super relaxed with a cardi-and-jacket combo. 

Animal print is back in all forms. 

Such a good layering piece.

Yes, yes, yes to this comfy straight-leg pair.

Style Notes: Leather strides are a minimalist’s favourite. Make like Sylvie and style with basics such as a white vest and a cable-knit ready for cooler days. 

Throw over your shoulders in milder weather. 

The white vest comes in handy all year round. 

Nanushka is known for having the best vegan leather.

Style Notes: If you opt for a cropped pair, this will ensure they go with any shoe—from heeled mules to casual trainers. Play with different shapes such as an oversized shirt with a tighter vest to balance out the tighter trousers. 

Available in sizes XXS to 4XL.

You’ll never regret buying a great white shirt. 

The perfect length to wear with trainers. 

Style Notes: As a fan of chocolate, I’m happy cocoa brown is on the menu for autumn. Overhauling everything from leather trousers to dresses, it’s the colour of the year. 

The square neckline is so flattering.

Because brown is the new black this year. 

So retro. 

Style Notes: There’s something about leather-on-leather that feels so cool, like a sleeker version of the Canadian tuxedo. I would wear this look with low-heeled ankle boots, like Francesca.

This is sure to be a cult favourite. 

I would also wear these with a silky cami after dark.

The gold accent looks effortless.

This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.

Next Up, The Autumn/Winter 2023 Fashion Trends That Really Matter