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When it comes to leather (or faux-leather if you so fancy), we’ve always been in the “less is more” camp. A fitted biker jacket to toughen up a floral maxi, a chunky pair of biker boots in place of flats at the hem of your favorite skinnies—no doubt these details can make or break a look. But until recently, wearing them all at once seemed a sin akin to pairing plaid and stripes. Kate Bosworth’s chic leather-on-leather look, coupled with a sudden onslaught of irresistible leather on the runway, has got us rethinking our philosophy. Bosworth not only layers on leather, she takes a further risk, mixing and matching the fabric in different colors. The result: a truly inspiring separates ensemble. Click through to see our take on the trend.

If you’re an experienced leather wearer with an ample collection of classics, the ingredients for your leather-on-leather look may already be in your closet. You can’t go wrong with sleek leather leggings and a basic tee. Take it up a notch by choosing a top with leather details (such as patches or pockets). Edgy biker boots and a well-worn moto-jacket seal the deal.
American Flag Leather Jacket
$565, Baci
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Leather-Sleeve Top
$61, bella A boutique
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Vegan-Leather Leggings
$32, Girlfriends Fashions
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Studded Leather Boot
$575, Baci
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Tan leather is a safe place to start for a leather newbie. A fitted tan bottom looks almost like a riding pant, while a wide collar jacket lends a structured, retro feel. Carry a small, brown bag and continue to play it safe, or add unexpected edge with mossy green booties.
Leather Bolero Jacket
$550, Baci
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Leather Tuxedo Pants
$1,100, Baci
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Horseshoe-Clasp Leather Bag
$455, Baci
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Leather Buckle Booties
$450, Baci
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Even if you favor a more romantic, bohemian style, leather isn’t off limits. As one of the oldest natural fibers around, leather has been in use since antiquity. Return to the fabric’s historical roots with dramatic, Renaissance-style pieces such as a ruffled jacket and bloomer-esque shorts. Update the look for the 21st century with short, buckle boots and crimson crocodile handbag.
Pearlized Ruffle Jacket
$78.40, Members Only
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Ruched Leather Shorts
$241.50, Baci
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Crocodile Leather Bag
$340, Baci
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Double Buckle Bootie
$425, Baci
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The night out is leather’s native domain. A spiky miniskirt and playful cropped jacket make a fun combo to wear to the bar or a weekend rock show. Some serious platform shoes and a geometric clutch complete the look.
Quilted Faux-Leather Jacket
$78.40, Members Only
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Vegan-Leather Skirt
$75, White Label
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Rectangle Handbag
$455, Baci
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Platform Wedge Ankle Boot
$235, Couchounette - Park Slope
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Restricting leather to weekend wear is an all too common mistake. Take it to the boardroom with a chic shift dress and sharp knee-high boots. Stashing a funky blue clutch (and a sparkly watch that doubles as a bracelet) in your brief case ensures you can take your look from day to evening without missing a beat.
Two-Tone Rose-Detail Dress
$290, Baci
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Leather Zipper Clutch
$220, Couchounette - Park Slope
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Glittery Leather Wrap Watch
$100, Fifteen22
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Leather Knee-High Boots
$250, Couchounette - Park Slope
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