How to Wear Black Leather Over 40 with Confidence this Fall
Black leather is having a moment this fall—but not just in the usual way. It’s much more than moto jackets. I’ve been spotting clean-lined trenches, sleek wrap skirts, and tailored trousers that feel modern and wearable.
That said, black leather can still be a little tricky. It’s edgy, high contrast, and depending on how you wear it, you might wonder if it comes off a little too hard or fierce at this age and stage. You want to feel chic and confident—not like you’re channeling some past punk phase.
No need to worry or write it off. It all comes down to how you style it. The right texture, the right shape, a few soft touches—and suddenly black leather goes from “not sure” to “so good.”
Here’s how to Look Fabulous in Black Leather this Fall
As much as I like the edgy, youthful vibe of black leather, I don’t want it to make me look tough, masculine, or worse, like a tired, worn-out, old rocker. You may laugh, but for many gals, wearing black leather as we age is challenging. Luckily, I’ve found ways to own it, and make look chic. Here’s the secret sauce to feeling confident and looking fabulous in black leather in your 40s, 50s, and 60s.
Stick to Classic Shapes & Timeless Silhouettes
Simple silhouettes, with clean lines and minimal detail, are timeless and sophisticated. For example, a trench coat, leather blazer, or a wrap or circle skirt in black leather always looks chic. Classic doesn’t have to mean boring. Style classic black leather with trendy non-leather pieces for a classic with a twist.
Wear Soft, Buttery Black Leather
Whether leather or faux leather (which is much more popular these days), be sure the leather is thin, light, soft, and pliable so your garment drapes well and looks relaxed and modern. Stiff, heavy, thick leather is dated.
Create Softness Near Your Face
Black leather worn close to an aging face can look harsh, emphasizing your fine lines and wrinkles, creating dark shadows, and washing you out. Soften the look of a black leather biker jacket with a silky print scarf or sparkly jewelry. To light up your skin and eyes. Or, wear leather on your bottom half only—for example, leather pants, leggings, or a skirt.
Leather Wrap Skirt | Amazon Option ( as shown)
Pair Leather with Luxurious, Feminine Fabrics
A gorgeous silky blouse or satin top is elegant and feminine and tames the biker vibe of black leather. This silky animal print blouse is a great choice with this black faux leather wrap skirt. Add some fine, pointy black suede booties for a ladylike, fashion-forward feel.
Spanx Leather Leggings | Amazon Faux Leather Leggings (as shown)
Warm-up the Look of Leather with a Cozy Knit
Black leather can sometimes come across as cold and intimidating. Soft, cozy knits, especially cashmere, warm up hard-edged, black leather, and make you appear more welcoming. A soft, cozy sweater with black faux leather leggings is a fabulous look, and if the sweater is slightly loose or oversized, it will create a more relaxed feel.
Use Leather as Accent Only
If full-on black leather pants or a top don’t feel like you, why not wear something with leather touches? For example, this animal print dress with the chic leather belt or a jacket with leather-trimmed pockets. One of my favorite dresses is a Ponte knit dress with black faux leather trim.
Go Easy on the Hardware
Studs, chains, and multiple zippers on leather can look tough and tacky. Less is more. Avoid all that shiny hardware that makes you look like you belong to a motorcycle gang. Think elegant, not rock n roll, to look elegant in black leather at any age.
Here are a few of my favorite black leather pieces for Fall in stores now:
Black Leather Shirtdress: Yes, to this unfussy, chic dress with beautiful seams, neckline, and fabulous belt. The classic cut and longer length make it elegant. If this were thigh-high, it would have a different feel.
High-Waisted Black Leather Pants: These are fabulous. Talk about classy with that high waist and perfectly tapered shape. No detail at the waist means you can wear something tucked in or a long top or sweater and not worry about extra bulk at the waist. Notice the shoes. Slingbacks are trending and perfect for this Audrey Hepburn look.
Tall Suede and Leather Boot: For ladies who want a touch of black leather, check out this fabulous mixed media boot in suede with the gorgeous black leather croc overlay. It is truly unique and so stylish.
Spanx Two-Tone Leather Dress: Another great example of mixed media. This time, it’s faux leather and ponte stretch combined to create an alluring leather sheath that is modern and super comfy!
Finally, I’ve shared several black leather fall finds that look fabulous at any age. But in the end, confidence is key. You’ll never look cool if you don’t feel authentic in black leather. It’s a little edgy even when you choose classic pieces, so be sure it suits your personality and feels like you!
Was this page helpful?
I don’t care for leather garments for myself. I said I have a beautiful sweater from the early 1990s with black leather accents at the shoulders. I STILL receive compliments when I wear it. Unbelievable, I would even save a garment from the last century! 😊
Hi Robin, That’s amazing you have had it so long. It must be good quality to have held up. A timeless classic!
How about a leather skirt that is not a mini (just above the knees) when softened as explained above and not worn with other leather?
Hi Mary,
Sure, Leather skirts are fabulous…just not a mini. Try wearing your leather skirt with black tights and tall boots for a great look at the knee or just above the knee. Above the waist, you can wear a silky blouse to soften things up, a jacket, or a top that is not leather. You’ve got the right idea!!