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In my efforts to revamp my wardrobe and look a bit more fashionable, I’ve been trying out some new styles. To be honest, these aren’t exactly new trends—just things I’ve noticed many people wearing for a long time, though I still find them amusingly new: cropped wide-leg trousers (which basically look like they’re too short), tank tops (similar to a waiter’s vest minus the buttons), and ridiculously ugly boots or shoes that seem like they were designed by a medieval mason who excels at carving gargoyles.
Trying out these styles hasn’t been fun. They made me feel so unattractive that I couldn’t even joke about the experience like I usually would. I’m game for any costume just for laughs—I once dressed as a giant poop for a Sky ad—but some of the shoes for sale are a step too far for me. This isn’t to criticize those trends; some people rock the cropped wide-leg trousers. You need to pick the right ones and style them properly, but they’re just not my cup of tea.
Maybe it’s an age thing? Do all generations frown upon the next generation’s fashion choices, wondering what on earth is happening? I might be more influenced by past fashion rules than I thought. I’m a late-born Gen X, and my style guidelines growing up were simple: either show off your legs or your cleavage, never both, and only wear a coat if it’s snowing. This probably explains why I’m always fighting with my wardrobe: I want to be comfortable and warm, but my teenage years in the ’90s have me believing an outfit isn’t fit for public if it doesn’t require some sacrifice. Is a skirt really short enough if I’m not constantly tugging it down? Can I call myself sophisticated if my heels aren’t too high for a brisk walk? Am I truly pulled together if my trousers don’t pinch?
Finally, I think I’ve found a trend I can embrace—yay for the leather (or faux leather) skirt! This might not be mind-blowing for everyone, but I’m just thrilled when I manage to wear something that’s not pajamas. If I can pull on something other than a tracksuit in the morning, I feel like I’ve won half the battle before the day even starts. Wearing a trendy outfit that’s actually relevant? I’m over the moon!
The best part is, this trend doesn’t require me to hold my breath all day (looking at you, BodyCon) or avoid anything dirty, like those impractical creamy or camel outfits worn by people who never encounter children, pets, or dirt. It’s so versatile that I might actually manage that elusive “day to night” look everyone talks about. Total myth, though. Has anyone really changed outfits and makeup in a cab to go from work to a fancy event? I’ve never met these people. Isn’t it more realistic for everyone to stick to one outfit all day, no matter what surprises the day holds? What situations even demand a pinstripe suit from 9 to 5, then red carpet attire by 7? Sounds niche, yet magazines would have you think the entire British workforce lives this way.
Back to the leather skirt (or a leather-like option, since there are plenty of choices). I adore the tough, masculine vibe of leather—it screams rock and roll, bikers, punk, even cowboys. But when it’s crafted into a feminine skirt, it’s surprisingly stylish. It looks fantastic paired with a soft, slightly tucked-in cashmere sweater.
That’s my favorite combination, as you can see in the picture. My other styling attempts sometimes fall flat, mainly because adding one new wardrobe staple often means I need more because nothing I have matches like I imagine. Suddenly, I need boots just the right length or a sleeveless top with a high neck, or a similar top to one I already own, but slightly more sheer. Nothing else will suffice.
Here’s what definitely doesn’t work with a leather pencil skirt: too many other leather pieces. Throw on a leather jacket, and you look like an extra from an old bar scene. Add leather boots with spiky heels, and the vibe gets dominatrix real quick. For now, the key seems to be something fluffy and oversized on top. It softens the tough leather into something tactile and beautifully soft. Now, I just need to find the perfect boots, and I’ll be set to wow the fashion world!