Sassy Style Dilemma: Lovely Leather

Style Dilemma: Leather always seems to be in and out of fashion, so it’s about time I invest in some key pieces that will stand the test of time. I’m looking for a biker jacket, skirt and boots that I can wear to add a bit of edge to my current look. My style is naturally quite feminine and I work in an office so I’d like items that are more biker chic and less ‘Sons of Anarchy’ if possible.

1. Veda Pink Jacket, 2. Zara Zip Jacket, 3. Tibi Midi Skirt, 4. Zara Midi Skirt, 5. Isabel Marant Boots, 6. Asos Biker Boots

Style Solution: In recent years, leather has become much more widely available and inexpensive, making it an easy and fun way to add a touch of toughness to any outfit. Faux leather has even gone from cheap-y substitute to a durable and versatile material for clothing and accessories of every style. You’re totally right though, it can be tricky to navigate through the world of options to find pieces that read more runway rebel than Hell’s Angel hooligan.

With a biker jacket, choose a spin on the standard. Veda is known for their expert fit, and their slim-cut powder pink jacket will look fabulous paired with one of you feminine, flowy dresses. The funnel neck is a functional and flirty bonus. On Zara’s zip version, the belt detail evokes 90s supermodel style, simply layer over a slip dress for daytime or combine with oversize denim on the weekends.

When I hear leather skirt, a classic pencil style comes to mind, but I’m guessing you want to be more au courant – therefore a wide, midi-length is your best bet. Coloured leather, such a deep green, can break the monochrome-ness of head-to-toe black, and exudes a certain richness as well. Tibi’s Kelly-colored pleated version could become your workday go-to this fall, and Zara’s panelled piece will look sharp with a tailored blazer or cropped sweater. Both are tights compatible, in addition.

With boots, its great to stick to basic black, ensuring its a cinch to coordinate on rushed mornings. These Isabel Marant booties nod to a biker origin with their grommets, but the heel and bow components add a spoon of sweetness. ASOS has a great ankle biker style with a gilding of glam golden plates. Keep them office appropriate with a long-sleeved silk jumpsuit.

Top image sourced via Pinterest

I’m Lucia; a recent transplant to Hong Kong from New York City, where I studied, lived and worked for 13 years. My first year here has been a whirlwind in the best possible way. I love still having the fast pace of life, packed social calendar, and endless eating and drinking options I enjoyed in Manhattan, while warmer weather and easy beach access are the icing on my Hong Kong cake. When I’m not in town, you can find me anywhere from Formentera to Malawi to Siem Reap.

For the entirety of my decade long career, I’ve been a luxury and fashion professional, focused mainly on personal styling. I ran my own boutique personal shopping firm and held senior positions at Harper’s Bazaar, and most recently, Moda Operandi. I now use my in-depth industry expertise as a freelance brand consultant and writer, and I’m looking forward to helping Hong Kongers, one fashion emergency at a time, with Sassy Hong Kong.