How to Style Leather Pants for Spring, Inspired by Cate Blanchett

While spring initially calls for lighter silhouettes and brighter hues, fabrics like leather are still essential for the season as temps become unpredictable. Film producer and unofficial sartorial maven Cate Blanchett appears to agree with this notion, as seen through her outfits at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. During her tour in the warm riviera, Blanchett proudly rocked a gold sequin top with leather pants and black pumps, effortlessly showing that the popular fabric isn't just for winter. More recently, Rihanna wore a leather newsboy cap and blazer with oversize jeans to celebrate the launch of Fenty Beauty in China. Need we say more?

Some of the biggest spring 2024 runways also pushed the leather memo, from Miu Miu and Stefan Cooke's oversized duffles to one-shoulder LBDs and structured pants on Gucci and Louis Vuitton's catwalks. Meanwhile, Beyoncé used cowboy core to translate the trend to everyday wear through multiple looks during her Cowboy Carter rollout—most notably, the all-black Versace shirt and trousers she wore at this year's iHeart Radio Music Awards.

Ahead: we share some outfit inspiration to help you incorporate leather in your wardrobe this season.

Head-to-Toe Leather

For those 50 degree spring days, consider going monochrome with all-leather. A structured pant-and-top combo like this Chanel ensemble is nothing short of classic. We're currently obsessed with this leather jumpsuit from Alice + Olivia.

Leather Pants

Although you might think of Lenny Kravitz when it comes to leather pants, the piece has graduated from a punk symbol to one of fashion's most enduring trends. Style it with a bandeau top or white tee and some heels and you're instantly cool. Brands like Bardot and FRAME have mastered the silhouette this season.

"LMD"

We've always been fans of LBDs, but we're trading them for leather minidresses ("LMD") this season. Rock styles from Revolve and Simkhai with a powerful boot or lacey heels for a spontaneous night out.

Leather Belt Skirt

In case you're in need of some texture in your look, consider adding a leather mini like this one that doubles as a belt from Acne Studios. Style it in the traditional way with a coordinating top and heels, or go full Y2K with a skirt-over-pants moment. We love these options from Mango and Y/Project.

Leather Midi Skirt

Did someone say office-siren? A work wardrobe isn't truly complete without a leather midi. And if you're looking for something a little more daring, opt for a gathered midi like this pastel piece from Revolve.