The last time I wore a pair was in the mid-90s, and since then I’ve made my peace with having them remain in my sartorial past. Not because I don’t think they’re awesome, but because I fear they would—at best—come off deeply undignified on my 48 year-old self. And at worst, that they would render the bottom half of my body so unlovely to behold that parents might be inspired to shield their children’s eyes as I walk down the street.
So I was frankly rather surprised at myself yesterday when—out doing an afternoon walk-and-shop with the dog —I spied this pair, and thought oh, why the hell not? Something about the capri shape and zipper ankle (which you can’t quite see in this picture, unfortunately)—and the fact that they were J Brand, which I’ve found to be a a strong option for girls with actual hips—made the whole leather pants enterprise feel suddenly, completely within reach. But as it turned out, they were out of my size, and before disappointment had a chance to set in, the knowledge that I had dodged a serious bullet did. It was not going to end well for me and those jeans in that dressing room; this I know.
But I’m still not certain that’s universally true for all women who’ve reached the other side of 40. I mean, French fashion editors of all ages wear the hell out of leather jeans. Would you still give them a spin? Or would you be more inclined to go for for one of the waxed cotton pairs that are all over the place this season and do a pretty decent—but much safer, and way cheaper—approximation—of the look? Color me curious.
Kim, if anyone could rock leather jeans or the waxed cotton option it would be you! I love the waxed cotton myself. I have two pairs of them–one pair purchased at Zara and the other pair was a Nordstrom Rack find. Depending on what you wear on top, I think you could really make a leather or waxed cotton jean look really chic. Balance out the rock n’ roll bottom with a white shirt/blazer combo, perhaps?
Maybe I’m too optimistic but aren’t these kind of “classic?” And frankly when it’s freezing out and you depend on every layer to work some sort of sartorial magic in the warmth department, leather (with some silk long johns underneath) is just brilliant. For anyone who’s a bit self-conscious about wearing it, even then, well I say just throw a fabulous bulky sweater over them and toss on a great pair of earrings.
Done.
I remember envying my college pal’s leather slacks in the punky 80s. But leather clothes always start out looking fresh and edgy, but sooner or later either scream “New York Bronxville Matron” or whisper softly “Barbra?”
I’m not sure that I would ever buy them for myself. They seem like a big commitment for some reason! But I do love the look of them!
Yes to leather jeans, especially if made by J Brand.
Don’t care for leather jeans. They always seem to say “I’m. So. Edgy.” And usually the person wearing them is not. And leather jeans with sandals (as in the photo) seems…odd.
I have some in my closet from 2003-ish. Thinking about trying them on again for the season and I would go for the look that Lori suggests. Though I love just about any J Brand pant, ooh, these are a bit pricey…
Was there a Spy cam in my office? We were just debating this issue Wed of this week while flipping through the Bloomingdales catalog.The jury weighed in and of course it is almost always a body type issue. The over and under 50 crew all seem to love leather leggings and or jeans. I myself must avoid looking like “Two Tons of Fun”.
The simple answer is no. I used to have a pr of leather trousers but that was some hrs ago. I loved them then but the time has passed.
Why not if you find the pair that works for your body. I tried on a pair of the leather look that didn’t work for me, but I will keep looking. NYDJ has a pair that looks real but it the coated fabric, look for those.
A resounding yes. It does, however, depend on what you pair them with because wearing something sexy or edgy on top can be, well, a bit much. I prefer them paired with something buttoned up or demure on top, and I agree, they look ridiculous with sandals.
Whoever designed that footwear needs to apologize to the world at large.
I am not cool enough. You are, though.
Ditto what Lori said. I don’t see an age issue with these. I only see a lot of fit and cut issues, and lining issues. I am not fond of the superskinny pants look, but that’s true no matter the fabric. (I’m not saying never, just it’s not my favorite. Even on this model. Why do people like the sausage look? And that’s what will make them outdated by next year, right?)
Here it is much tooooo hot to even think about it. And the sandal issue went right over my head too!
I don’t like leather clothes, I find them too heavy and stiff in generally, and if it’s beautiful lightweight leather it tears
but I would totally do the leather look in leggings or jeans! I just feel it’s too trendy for my current look Right now I am working as an academic librarian and while I could wear leather/waxed cotton to work, and no doubt one of the other librarians will, I don’t feel I NEED to. If that makes sense.
Oh and btw, I don’t know if it’s you or my PC but something software-y seems to be choking up on a bit in that second to last para. And there is a big blank spot above it, where I sense there is a picture I can’t see. (I use Firefox and it chokes up a lot when I click on your links, for which I blame my tremendously out of date system.)
It’s probably a problem here but just thought I’d mention it.
I bought a pair of waxed jeans and would love a pair of leather jeans but won’t spend the money on something that can’t be worn to my office. I live in Manhattan, turned 50 this year, and I’m not as narrow or firm as I used to be; but, I feel pretty confident that I can carry off the look. I’m curious Kim; do you think working at a fashion magazine made it harder to embrace the changes to our bodies that come with age?
I can’t begin to justify the cost of leather jeans (I know there are cheaper versions out there, but they are…unlovely), not to mention I don’t really know if my size 10/12, 35 year old self should even torture herself with such things. I am, however, eying some coated jeans on ASOS right now and may pull the trigger on those come payday.
I bought a waxed denim pair from Zara late last year and have actually worn them to death. They’re my go-to, going out pair. They are, indeed, much easier to wear and were a heck of a lot cheaper, although I have absolutely no idea how to wash them. I know you can’t dry them because the wax will melt. I’ve just been doing spot cleanings (made easier, not surprisingly, by the wax), but I’m sure they need a more thorough wash.
I’m intrigued. I’ve heard of these but haven’t seen any in person yet. Does the wax get on things?
An over 50 lawyer chick says “yes to leather pants”.
I have Vince brown leggings from last year that
I can’t wait to wear again this year. With a big
Yigal sweater and suede flats. Maybe I’m
delusional but it seemed like a classic combo, the brown made
them less “hard” and the Yigal covered the
issues!
Yup. With reservations. Do you want a little edge in your presentation? Do you want to modernize tunics and sweaters and Breton boatnecks? Are you already comfortable in skinnies and boots? I’m wearing them this fall at age 62, but will do so by avoiding the biker look, or Joan Jett wannabeism. Always with boots or booties, with cloth coats instead of leather jackets, minimal jewelry and classic boots or booties. Not EVER with animal prints, studded anything or fitted tops. My workplace encourages a little creative edge, and I’m little. They can have a classic, tailored look that can look contmeporary on even old ladies like me.
Commenting because I have a pair in my closet that i’ll be revisiting soon. I’m another elderly (64) reader (followed Lucky for years until you and Andrea left, Kim) who likes the new, can still fit into it (sz. 6) but will not do the mutton dressed as lamb thing. If I do go for I, it’ll br with classics.
My philosophy is: wear 1 f—- you item at a time, be that shoes, jewelry etc. You get the idea.
So, so glad you’re back, Kim!
I don’t think it’s an automatic no. I think it depends on the person. Some older women could probably pull it off.
Yes, if it were 1986 and I was 16.
This one has been weighing on me for quite a few weeks now. But reading all the comments here is making me think that maybe I should give them a whirl. But I am thinking a legging, as I am not such a fan of jeans. (Except when I visit L.A., as I don’t think you are allowed there without them.) Thanks for the post!
Two words: Heat Rash!
I didn’t like them the first time they were in style and remain unmoved by their resurrection.
I agree! Not for me, esp not now.
I might. Last time the look made the rounds I went the pleather route from Canal Jeans. Oh the 90s.
If you have the body for it, I say yes! But I, sadly, just don’t. Short curvy pear-shaped women and leather jeans are a very difficult match!
My feeling is, in order to be the type of person who can wear leather pants, you have to be the type of person who would never question whether or not she can wear leather pants. I am not that person.
Might consider the waxed cotton, though.
Ditto what daisy said above. If you’re questioning it, it’s probably a no.
Nah. Looks like I’m trying too hard
I love my leather jeans and I am 45. Thrifted two different cuts and find that if you style them like a pair of black jeans and not a stripper oufit, they are quite edgy and fun. I refuse to stop dressing like me though I am NOT opposed to the red hat and purple dress either (lol). I think that is actually what that poem is talking about. Only you know if you are being true to your own style. If it makes you uncomfortable, it probably won’t work for you.