What to wear with leather shorts?

Are you keen to wear leather shorts but wondering what top to pair them with? What shoes should you wear? How do you dress with leather shorts when it's chilly?

You've come to the right place.

As a fashion enthusiast, I love sharing simple tips and practical advice to help you wear the outfits you love every day!

That’s why I’ve decided to put together this detailed guide on leather shorts, so you can dress stylishly and femininely.

Leather shorts are a fantastic choice for creating a stylish outfit during the warm days of spring or autumn, and they're even suitable for winter when paired with tights. They're perfect for a casual outing with friends, a date, or a day out. They look great with light, slightly dressy tops, such as a white blouse or a top with lace details. In winter, you can keep warm with a ¾ coat or a longer coat that will give you a stunning appearance. Lastly, don't hesitate to team them up with heels that elongate your legs: thigh-highs, ankle boots, or even heeled boots… for an ultra-sexy finish!

Want to know more details? Keep reading to find out:

  • If leather shorts fit the occasion you have in mind for wearing them,
  • How to choose a style that truly flatters you, no matter your body shape,
  • What top to wear with leather shorts,
  • What shoes to pair with them,
  • How to incorporate leather shorts into your winter outfits!

women's leather shorts

How to Wear Leather Shorts?

Whether you've recently bought a pair of denim shorts or you're wondering if it's worth getting one, let’s explore in the following lines whether this type of clothing suits you.

What season is best for wearing leather shorts?

Although it's a pair of shorts, the thick material makes it a bit warm for summer, especially on very hot days. However, it’s perfect for beautiful spring and autumn days: it keeps you warm and adds style to your outfits while allowing you to show off your legs. You can also wear it in winter, but you'll need to make sure you have something to keep you warm!

faux leather shorts

When is it appropriate to wear leather shorts?

Leather or faux leather shorts can be incredibly sexy: they draw attention to your hips and backside while showcasing and elongating your legs. For these reasons, I recommend that you avoid wearing them for formal occasions (weddings, christenings, funerals…) or in a strictly professional setting.

It’s perfect for spending a day with friends or going on a romantic date. It’s also great for enjoying a day off, going shopping, or visiting beautiful places…

Finally, you can definitely wear it for going out to the nightclub, to a bar, or for any other casual and festive occasion, allowing you to feel sexy while often being more comfortable to move and dance than in a skirt.

How to Choose the Right Shorts?

The key aspect to pay attention to is the size:

  • If your shorts are made of real leather, they won’t stretch much, if at all. So make sure from the start that they aren’t too tight when you fasten them, sit down, or squat.
  • If your shorts are made of faux leather, they are more flexible and will stretch more easily. This can be handy, especially if you’re quite active.

black leather shorts

Can I wear leather shorts if I'm curvy?

It’s perfectly fine to wear leather shorts if you have curves: however, I recommend you opt for a plus-size or curvy specific model, which is designed to highlight your lovely curves. Make sure the shorts are long enough to cover your thighs to avoid any uncomfortable chafing, and that they sit well on your waist without being too tight.

What Top to Wear with Leather Shorts?

Most leather shorts are black or dark (burgundy, natural leather, etc.), so they pair nicely with a light top for contrast. Combining a white or light top with dark bottoms is a technique I often mention for those who want to create a slimming effect with their outfits.

You might consider wearing a lovely blouse or top for a chic and delicate look. If you're after something more casual, you could go for a plain t-shirt or one with a pattern. Finally, a black top would be perfect for creating a total black look, ideal for a night out and to look fabulous.

leather shorts outfit

If your shorts are light brown leather or in mustard tones, you can pair them with a lovely patterned tunic for a beautifully natural bohemian-chic look!

👉 On the hunt for a trendy top to pair with leather shorts? Check out the tops we've picked out for you in our online store!

What Shoes to Pair with Leather Shorts?

With leather shorts that showcase your legs, choosing the right shoes is essential. When paired well, they will elongate your silhouette and enhance the lower half of your body.

Elegant and sexy with ankle boots or knee-high boots

Whether it’s for a night out or a date, if you want to look beautiful and sexy, I recommend wearing your leather shorts with boots or thigh-highs in the same shade as them. They can also match the colour of your top, tying the outfit together.

If you go for high-heeled shoes, they'll be perfect for enhancing your legs.

👉 Do you find that your boots aren’t high enough? Would you like to add an accessory to complete your look? Why not try pairing knee-high socks with your leather shorts by checking out our dedicated guide on the topic!

Everyday Elegance with Ankle Boots

For a slightly more versatile yet still elegant outfit, you can swap out the knee-high boots for ankle boots. These are particularly suitable if you're planning to wear your outfit with a longer coat, as it's best to avoid having the shoes peek out beneath the hem of the jacket for aesthetic reasons.

short leather ankle boots

Casual Chic with Sneakers

To catch up with the girls, go shopping, or head to university, for instance, you can totally wear your leather shorts with some sneakers. Opt for low-cut white sneakers, like Stan Smiths. If they’re spotless, the look will be super trendy and give you a lively vibe!

Which Shoes to Avoid with Leather Shorts?

Leather shorts don’t pair perfectly with all types of shoes. Some combinations can diminish your silhouette or create the impression of a mismatched outfit.

Avoid especially:

  • Flat sandals,
  • Ballerina flats,
  • Brightly coloured shoes,
  • Running shoes with various patterns…

short leather sneakers which shoes

How to Wear Leather Shorts in Winter?

As I mentioned at the start of this article, leather shorts can definitely be worn in winter. In this case, team them with dark, thin tights. Styles featuring embroidered patterns can create very feminine and delicate looks.

When it comes to the jacket, I recommend opting for something that at least reaches the bottom of your shorts, or even lower.
A long blazer or a plain ¾ coat would be perfect for adding style to the rest of your outfit! As always, feel free to incorporate colour and material combinations to create a harmonious ensemble that gives you a very trendy look!

leather winter shorts

Now you’re an expert on leather shorts and the various ways to create a stylish outfit with this fashion piece! In the meantime, feel free to visit our online store to explore all our collections of trendy clothing at accessible prices!

Need some inspiration? Take a look at outfit ideas to effortlessly style with leather shorts. Discover Our Styling Inspirations