As summer temperatures rise, a fascinating trend has taken over the fashion scene: leather clothes and accessories making waves despite the sweltering heat.
It all started when actor Maika Monroe stepped out in New York City wearing a full patent leather outfit in the peak of summer. Clad in patent sheep leather, Monroe garnered plenty of attention. Similarly, she was seen in a Courrèges leather sarong and bralet at the LA premiere of her film, "Longlegs." Even more surprising, Monroe wasn't the only one to choose such an unseasonal look.
Mia Goth, another star known for her distinctive style, was spotted in a Versace corset midi dress. The leather love didn’t stop there. At the premiere of "MaXXXine," Goth opted for a Ludovic de Saint Sernin halter-neck dress accented with a peek-a-boo leather bralet. Meanwhile, Kate Hudson and Rita Ora were also seen donning leather outfits, solidifying leather as a summer fashion staple.
Across the pond, British radio and TV presenter Vick Hope showed up at Wimbledon in a burgundy leather vest, shorts, and an overcoat, while Kate Hudson rocked lace-up leather pants on New York's streets. Even Rita Ora stayed committed to the material, promoting her new film in all-leather attire.
This leather trend isn't just limited to clothes. The search for the perfect leather tote bag has become a phenomenon, with countless options available. These bags, often seen as winter staples, are proving their versatility for summer as well. Lola Banjo, founder of luxury bag brand Silver & Riley, expressed, “A stylish leather tote will uplift any outfit beautifully, as they are incredibly versatile and can be used in unexpected ways.”
Leather totes have shown their capability to carry essentials stylishly, making them suitable for various occasions, from boardroom meetings to casual outings. Options range from simple black designs to more daring and colorful choices, each promising to add a unique flair to any ensemble.
Among the trendy leather totes, Luar’s Ana tote and Brandon Blackwood’s vegetable-dyed cowhide leather totes are standout options. These bags provide spacious interiors, removable straps, and stylish designs, making them ideal for both work and casual wear.
Adding fuel to this leather frenzy was superstar Dua Lipa, who embraced edgy leather outfits during her performance at the 2024 Glastonbury Festival. From a white cropped tank top paired with a bold leather skirt to her on-stage Chrome Hearts lace-up leather minidress, Lipa championed the "brat girl summer" trend.
Styled by Jaheel Weaver, Lipa’s Glastonbury looks epitomized the trend. As Weaver revealed, “Everything has been custom-made. There has been no compromise...This isn’t Coachella!” Each outfit, from the custom Loewe leather bodysuit to Gianvito Rossi lace-up boots, added a punk-rock vibe to her performance.
This trend was initially sparked by British pop star Charlie XCX, whose “brat girl summer” aesthetic emphasizes baby tees, neon colors, and leather outfits. Her approach has clearly resonated with many, inspiring fans and celebrities alike to embrace this bold look.
As we look ahead, the leather trend shows no signs of slowing down. Not only is it becoming a summer favorite, but its influence is also extending into accessories. The Spring/Summer 2024 collections highlighted leather’s versatility, featuring everything from Bottega Veneta’s woven baskets to Balenciaga’s leather totes adorned with charms and keys. These items were designed for practical use, echoing the chaotic, stuffed style made famous by the late Jane Birkin.
Amidst the wave of minimalist designs, these statement pieces stand out. Prada’s frame-style bags with eccentric fastenings and Gucci’s revamped Jackie bags covered in crystals showcase the creativity that leather can bring. Whether for its practicality or for making a bold fashion statement, leather proves to be a timeless choice.
In the bustling world of fashion, embracing leather has evidently become an evolving yet timeless trend. Despite the temperature, fashion lovers continue to gravitate towards this classic material, making it clear that leather is here to stay, summer or winter. As these trends unfold, one thing remains certain: leather’s capacity to blend practicality with bold style is unmatched.
From Maika Monroe’s surprising street style to Dua Lipa’s daring festival outfits, leather has redefined summer fashion. As Lola Banjo summed up, “A stylish leather tote will uplift any outfit beautifully.” So, whether you're a die-hard fashionista or someone looking to revamp your wardrobe, there’s no denying that incorporating a touch of leather can add that extra edge to any look.
