Leather Weather: From Catsuits To Crop Tops

by Amalia Graziani

So it’s that time of year again. Out with the exposed underbutt and in with pumpkin-infused everything and my favorite textile of all time: leather. With a legacy of hollywood’s ass-kicking, catsuit-clad babes behind you, leather has the capacity to transform even the most feminine shapes into pieces that say “I know you want to, but don’t even try” (and by leather I am also including pleather and latex because saving money and cows is cool. Also: shiiiiiiiny). Now I know the debated question of whether women really can have it all isn’t related to catsuits and biker jackets, but sometimes you just want to look powerful, chic, and hot as hell while jumping between trains or backflipping off a motorcycle. Only leather can do that for you. 


This summer we experienced the delightful impracticality of leather tanks, tees, and pants (guilty on all accounts) and while they certainly kept things unexpected (will I faint from dehydration? how quickly can I bend down in these pants?), the best classic leather looks demand some cooler temperatures. So after a Fashion Week overflowing with drool-worthy leathers, let’s get inspired by some of the fiercest leather-clad ladies from the past through today. 


Lucy Liu, Charlie’s Angels

Lucy Liu as Alex kills this look. Dominatrix day wear. Whip your wardrobe into shape with these look-alikes from Zara and American Apparel


Joan Jett


Maggie Cheung


I’m obsessed with this look. Perfect fusion of Addams Family + Joan Chen circa Twin Peaks.


Uma Thurman, Avengers (1998)


Having a think with Ralph Fiennes.


Milla Jovovich, Resident Evil: Retribution 2 (2012)


Always such a boss. 


Debbie Harry

The goddess herself. That collar means business. 

 

And now for some more practical numbers from this (and last) year’s Fashion Week:

Rag & Bone, Spring 2014

 

Mugler, F/W 2013


Matrix style. Alexander Wang, Spring 2014


Tom Ford Spring 2014


I love love love this look from Loewe’s Spring 2013 collection.

 

Bottega Venetta Pre-fall 2013


Tom Ford, Spring 2014


Jason Wu, Spring 2013

 

And then there’s this…


Victoria and David Beckham


Images via Superior Pics, SciFi Now, Rockin Style, NY Times and Elle.

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