There’s something about colder months that calls for richness in both color and fabric, and leather and suede deliver exactly that. For women 40 and over, these textures offer the perfect mix of polish, edge, and practicality. The key is knowing how to style them so they feel sophisticated, wearable, and true to your lifestyle. In this article we explore how to wear leather and suede.
Why leather and suede work so well right now
Texture matters: Leather and suede instantly add depth and interest to an outfit without drawing attention to themselves.
Seasonal fit: Both fabrics are naturally warming, making them perfect for layering in cooler months.
Ageless appeal: Whether you’re drawn to sleek tailoring or relaxed weekend looks, these pieces work across decades and body types.
Stylish suede and leather tips
Don’t be afraid to invest: Quality leather and suede will never go out of style.
Mix Textures: Balance leather or suede with soft knits, silk blouses, or structured wool coats.
Stick to Neutrals: black, camel, deep green, or burgundy. These colors feel timeless and are easy to pair. Additionally, since you are likely to spend more on suede and leather than on other materials, they are less likely to go out of style.
Fit is Everything: Tailoring matters more than ever — avoid anything too tight or hugely oversized.
Day to Night: Leather trousers paired with a chunky knit by day can be transformed into a night look with heels and a silk blouse. Equally, you can wear a suede skirt with sneakers by day or dress up with a blazer.
Kim @kimair above looks fabulous by nixing materials and pairing casual with formal.
Get her look with this similar top, shirt jacket, skirt, high boots, clutch and hoop earrings.
Brands to look at for suede and leather this year
If you’ve decided to treat yourself – or a loved one – this year, then these are some great brands to look at for suede and leather.
leather and suede pieces in stores now
We’ve rounded up the most stylish clothes, shoes, and accessories we’ve found below, and we’ve also put together a capsule wardrobe featuring these items.
Jackets and coats
A well-cut leather jacket adds instant polish and quiet confidence to even the simplest outfit, whether layered over jeans and a white tee or paired with a silk skirt for an evening look. Suede, meanwhile, softens the edge. Its matte finish and tactile texture bring warmth and sophistication that’s perfect for autumn. These jackets and coats aren’t about chasing trends; they’re about investment and attitude. Choose quality hides, flattering cuts, and neutral tones, and they’ll serve you beautifully for years to come.
Madewell Boxy Crop Suede Jacket – MANGO Suede Leather Jacket – Bernardo Belted Suede Coat – Ann Taylor Studio Collection Suede Trench Coat
Zadig & Voltaire Liam Leather Jacket – Nordstrom Leather Shirt Jacket – Nordstrom Bubble Hem Leather Jacket – AllSaints Reed Leather Trench Jacket
Rita @ritapalazzi above opts for a patent coat with a faux fur collar.
Recreate her outfit with this similar coat, jeans, pumps, bag and earrings.
pants
You don’t have to be a rock chick to wear leather pants – although you can be, of course. Whatever your style personality, leather and suede can work for you by combining edge with elegance. Slim-leg leather pants can work beautifully if you prefer a clean, tailored silhouette; they look effortless paired with an oversized knit or a crisp white shirt and blazer. Wide-leg styles bring a softer, modern feel – especially in supple leather that moves well. Pair with fitted tops or tucked-in blouses to balance proportions.
Vince Stretch-Suede Cropped Pants – Nordstrom Wide Leg Leather Pants – Ann Taylor Studio Collection The Straight Leather Pants – ANINE BING Bruno Pants
Ann Taylor Satin Tie Waist Blouse – Vince Stretch-Suede Cropped Pants – Marc Fisher LTD Garissa Mary Jane Ballet Flats – COACH Tabby 20 Quilted Suede Shoulder Bag with Chain – Nickel & Suede Ninas Leather Earrings
Dresses and skirts
Leather or suede dresses and skirts are very versatile for the cooler months. You can dress down with a sweater and sneakers or flat boots, wear with a blazer for the office or dinner, or dress up with a silk top and heels.
BOSS Drumialda Wool & Leather Column Dress – Ann Taylor Studio Collection Seamed Suede Pencil Skirt – Toccin Beatrice Vegan Leather Wrap Skirt – Karen Millen Leather Cut Work & Studded Wrap Pencil Skirt\
Ann Taylor Studio Collection Suede Trench Coat – Ann Taylor Cashmere Shawl Collar Sweater – Ann Taylor Studio Collection Seamed Suede Pencil Skirt – Madewell Laurel Booties – Longchamp Le Pliage Xtra Round Leather Top Handle Bag – Nickel & Suede Ninas Leather Earrings
Shoes and boots
Leather and suede are, of course, classic materials for your footwear. Opt for absolutely any style of shoes or boots you love to wear, and you’re sure to wear them for many seasons.
Marc Fisher LTD Garissa Mary Jane Ballet Flats – Bernardo Giselle Suede Pumps – Madewell Laurel Booties – victoria Berlin Leather Sneakers
Jona @the50plusgirl above chooses studded suede boots with her jeans.
Steal her look with this similar denim shirt, jacket, jeans, booties and handbag.
Accessories
Investing in high-quality leather or suede accessories can significantly elevate your existing outfits, making your overall look appear chic and sophisticated.
AllSaints Asha Shoulder Bag – AllSaints Ara East West Suede Tote – COACH Tabby 20 Quilted Suede Shoulder Bag with Chain – Longchamp Le Pliage Xtra Round Leather Top Handle Bag – COS Cashmere-lined Suede Gloves – Panacea Leather Faux Pearl Hoop Earrings – Nickel & Suede Ninas Leather Earrings
MANGO Suede Leather Jacket – Nordstrom Pima Cotton Blend Crewneck T-Shirt – PAIGE Laurel Canyon High Waist Bootcut Jeans – victoria Berlin Leather Sneakers – Nordstrom Eyelash Trim Print Cashmere & Silk Wrap – Panacea Leather Faux Pearl Hoop Earrings
What to wear with your leather and suede
You’re unlikely to want to wear leather and suede from head to toe. Instead, combine with your classics – your white shirt, t-shirt, or jeans. Leather and suede also look beautiful teamed with contrasting materials like silk, satin, and cashmere. Autumnal prints, such as plaid and dark florals, also work well.
Open Edit Twist Front Stretch Cotton Blend Button-Up Shirt – Ann Taylor Satin Tie Waist Blouse – Nordstrom Pima Cotton Blend Crewneck T-Shirt – Ann Taylor Cashmere Shawl Collar Sweater – Ann Taylor The Fitted Belted Plaid Blazer – PAIGE Laurel Canyon High Waist Bootcut Jeans – Nordstrom Eyelash Trim Print Cashmere & Silk Wrap
Claudia @glamupyourlifestyle above chooses a beautiful color combination with burgundy pants and a mint sweater.
Check out this similar sweater, pants (another option here), sneakers, handbag and earrings.
Your suede and leather capsule
Below, you can see some of the suede and leather clothing, shoes, and accessories from above, all together in one capsule, to provide some outfit inspiration.
Continue reading:
- Wearing brown as the new black for winter and fall 2025
- How to wear plaid to perfection this season
- Capsule dressing for Fall 2025: 26 items, countless outfits
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Feature image by Jona @the50plusgirl
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