I know, I know, when I say pleather, you probably have some terrible late-’90s Hot Topic flashbacks. But, fear not: faux leather is a really great and affordable alternative to the real stuff, and I find that even super reasonable items can look real and fit great.
Over the next few days, I’m going to show a few different faux leather items I’ve scored this fall. All pretty inexpensive, and all super pretty. I’ll give you tips on how to style them with things that are likely already in your wardrobe, and answer any questions you have about turning your pleather dreams into outfit reality.
These Zara pants are probably my faux favorite, if only because of their low-key sexy versatility. If you’re brave — and be brave, friends — you can wear them during the day with black flats or bright white sneakers and a chic sweater (preferably cropped with a little French tuck action in the front, as I’ve styled it here). Dress up that same outfit for dinner with simple black heels. If you have a liberal office, you might even be able to keep the pumps, lose the sweater, and add a tucked silk blouse (with or without a blazer, but I’m always voting for the blazer) and be the chicest lady in your cubicle city.
I also LOVE the fit and shape of these. High-waisted pants have become an essential wardrobe addition since I’ve birthed two humans. These pants basically act like a girdle without feeling or looking like one. And, because the legs have a slightly relaxed fit with tapered ankle, you can actually move in these beauties.
Now, let’s chat about sizing. Like leather, its illegitimate-but-more-awesome sibling tends to stretch. However, since these pants aren’t meant to be skin-tight, it isn’t as much of an issue. I’d go with whatever feels fitted but not too confining around the waist. I’m usually between sizes at Zara and I went with the smaller of the two here.
Did I sell you on these? If so, you can find this exact pair here. Also, did I mention that these pants cost less than $70? Because they do.
Enjoy! Remember: before you buy things to go with your fabulous new pants, take a moment to rediscover old friends from the back of your closet. You might be surprised by the things you’ve forgotten you have.
PS: The Stella Pardo sweater I’m wearing in the photo is a favorite. If you’re looking for a more affordable cropped sweater to pair with your pants, I’m deeply in love with this one and with the chunky pattern here.
