2019 Update: We still think this is a great discussion on whether leather skirts are appropriate for the office — you may also want to check out a recent 2019 discussion amongst the readers on point.
Leather skirts: classics — or classic mistakes? I’ve noticed some great leather skirts in stores lately, some of which could very well work for some offices. But are they appropriate? Too dated? Too sexy? Too casual? I thought we’d take a poll.
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Here’s my $.02: Leather, like animal print, can be a little wild — but also like animal print it’s a classic, and a well-fitting, quality leather skirt in a classic shape can be worn for years to come. Imagine an outfit that plays with textures — a corduroy or tweed blazer, maybe a silk top, and then suede pumps — that could be amazing for the office, and the leather skirt could be just the right touch of “rocker chic” to really elevate the outfit. I think styling is key, though — you both want to avoid looking like someone out of the 80s (say, by mixing black fishnets and huge platform heels with a leopard print top) as well as someone who is just killing time at the office until your rockstar ship comes in and you’re ushered off on your world tour. I would also say that quality is key here — if you’re going to go for a leather skirt, go for an actual leather (not pleather) that has been finished well and will stand the test of time.
Readers, what are your thoughts?
2019 social media images update via Deposit Photos / nkrivko.
TC2
I have 2 suede skirts that are a little snug right now, but that I have previously worn to work and found entirely appropriate. They are both knee-length. One is pink, and the other is taupe. Maybe it’s the suede texture that makes them feel more OK than maybe black glossy leather, but I think that almost any fabric can be professional if the cut is right. That being said, I would only wear them to days where I am staying in the office and do not have any particularly important meetings, so knowing what’s suitable for a particular occasion is also important!
Sadie
I don’t really dig the skirt, but I do have leather pants I occasionally wear with ballet flats, an oversize blouse and a blazer. I am a teacher and there are probably staff who think it’s a bit too “rocker”, but I don’t really give two hoots because I like the vibe they give off. Oh, I should probably add that I teach art, photography and fashion, so maybe I can get away with stuff the math teachers can’t.
kerrpe
Ugh – black leather pencil skirt – I had one in the 80’s! Can’t get that memory our of my head.
I could see wearing a lighter colored suede to the office if I didn’t live in a warm climate, but nothing shiny and no black leather.