There is no denying the allure of a slinky slip skirt, but there's just something about a powerful leather skirt that has its own indisputable impact. There's a dichotomy between the two styles that gives equally important yet very different feelings (and you can change an entire outfit just by switching one for the other). Slip skirts, though, lack the durability and warmth that leather skirts possess, which is key to surviving the colder months in style. Whether you're heading to the office or dressing up for a night out, leather skirts manage to be both practical and undeniably chic when temperatures begin their descent towards the end of the year.

(Image credit: @nnennaechem)

Just in case you're not sure how to style the fashion insider's favourite winter slip-skirt alternative, below is a curation of six looks that will make introducing leather skirts into your rotation this season a breeze. You can thank us later.

1. Sweater + Slingbacks + Pencil Skirt

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Style Notes: A classic grey knit will complement a midi skirt every single time, and Anouk's cashmere and leather combination is a tried and tested formula that is perfect for the chillier months. Snakeskin slingbacks and silver accessories add a sophisticated touch to the look, and keep things in a cool colour palette that channels the start of winter.

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Navygrey The New Classic Crew

A year round staple.

MANILA GRACE Midi Skirt

Such a beautiful, rich khaki tone.

Coach Slingback Heel With Snake Print

Just the right amount of lift without being uncomfortable.

2. Jacket + Turtleneck + Midi Skirt + Boots

(Image credit: @nnennaechem)

Style Notes: Opting for a tonal ensemble with a brown suede jacket and richer chocolate skirt gives this skirt layers of depth that you just can't get from a white tee and jeans. Tie it all together with a black turtleneck and coordinating black accessories for extra polish, and bonus point if you manage to factor in a sculptural boot.

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Free People We the Free Hera Vegan Suede Jacket

This also comes in a lighter, camel shade too.

Everlane The Luxe Rib Turtleneck

Everlane have mastered quality basics.

Whistles Brown Full Hem Leather Circle Skirt

Slightly more expensive than you would expect from the high street, but worth it for 100% leather.

Reformation Remy Stretch Knee Boot

I've been wearing these exact boots for years.

3. Pastel Cardigan + Pencil Skirt + Flats

(Image credit: @lucyraemcfadin)

Style Notes: Soften up your tough black leather skirt with powder pink and soft textures that work unexpectedly well. A fuzzy pink cardigan, playful opticals, and satin flats create the perfect juxtaposition—a little bit sunny and cute, a little bit dark and mysterious. Just the like the summer to autumn transition.

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Urban Outfitters Uo Hudson Cardigan

Such a sweet shade of pink.

Karen Millen Forever Leather Signature Pencil Skirt

Perfect for tucking the cardigan hem into the waistband.

Free People Aurora Flats

These come in five equally cute colours.

4. Tank Top + Colourful Bag + Column Skirt

(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

Style Notes: A bright pop of colour in the form of an electric-green bag accents Aniyah's a white tank top and black leather midi skirt outfit with just one easy addition. Brights not your thing? Feel free to switch up the colours to match your style too, the possibilities are endless, but the most important part of this look is the elegant column skirt that has a more directional feel than a classic pencil.

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H&M Ribbed Vest Top

I always stock up on basics from H&M.

Reformation Veda Cole Low Waist Leather Maxi Skirt

Sleek, simple, sophisticated.

Anonymous Copenhagen Sophie 20 Soft Calf Black

I'd urge you to check out Anonymous Copenhagen for outstanding shoes with compliment-worthy designs.

Acne Studios Camero Mini Suede Shoulder Bag

Suddenly I'm sold on lime.

5. Leather Jacket + Matching Skirt + Heels

(Image credit: @emilisindlev)

Style Notes: As soon as the temperature drops, a matching leather set makes for a chic nighttime ensemble. Finish off the look with a classic pair of black shades, kitten-heel slingbacks, and an east-west bag. Everything about this look is guaranteed to invite compliments.

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ARMA Emy Regular-Fit Leather Jacket

Such a luxe shade of red.

Sportmax Straight Leather Skirt

A pretty close match if I do say so myself.

Le Specs Outta Love Sunglasses

Social media's favourite shades.

SIMMI Shoes Liorra Sling Back Court Shoes

How to look like you've spent three figures when you've really spent under £35.

6. Sweater + Leather Wrap Skirt + Kitten Heels

(Image credit: @jen_wonders)

Style Notes: Change up your leather-skirt styling with a wraparound style that feels better suited to warm weather than a bodycon silhouette. While we're talking about the classics, everyone has a great neutral, knit in their wardrobe, and navy and black always look expensive together, just like Jen Wonders deep toned outfit. Staple accessories include sensible black mules, oversized frames, and a woven bag. Et, voila.

Shop the Look:

Massimo Dutti Fine Knit Round Neck Sweater

Ultra-soft and ultra-fine so you can start wearing this now.

Nour Hammour Paneled leather maxi wrap skirt

An amazing find in the sale.

SEQWL Maybach High Vamp Mules in Black

Wear with everything from jeans to summer dresses.

Anthropologie Melie Bianco Brigitte Large Faux Leather Shoulder Bag

A Who What Wear editor's favourite.