Should we be Wearing Leather over 40?

At what ages does it become a little sad (and pathetic) to be still wearing leather?
When do we stop looking ‘edgy’ and start looking like mutton dressed as lamb?

Does wearing leather (over 40) mean we come across as desperate to look young?
Should the leather loving over 40’s give up the rock chic look, hang up their biker jacket and stop making a fool of themselves?

It will probably come as no surprise to you that I think we can wear leather at any age.
Whether it’s a simple leather jacket, trousers, leggings, t-shirt, shirt, dress or full-on leather catsuit!!
If you love it, rock it!

The only time leather starts to look “off” is when you are trying to be something you are not.
When it is worn awkwardly, or with a sense of apology.
Leather can’t be worn apologetically.

Leather is not for wallflowers.

You can’t wear leather and fade into the background.
Leather is a statement.
Embrace it, and have fun!

See my previous leather looks for more inspiration:

A full on black mini dress…here.
A green faux leather dress here and here.
Leather(ette) here and here.
A black leather jacket here.
A nude leather jacket here, here and here.

This particular leather look is as subtle (and wearable) as leather can get.
A simple day look that suits just about anyone, of any age, regardless of shape or size.

The jacket I’m wearing was sent to me by a company called Hidepark.
When they first contacted me I must admit that I was a little dubious.
Buying leather online?
Hmmmm…I was not convinced.
You can’t get a proper ‘feel’ of it.
Leather is a very tactile fabric.
Personally, I need to get a handle on it in order to find out if it is for me.

Leather can easily be cheap, stiff, grainy and a bit unpleasant to wear.
Cheap leather looks ugly.

I am always willing to give things a go (See this post about the importance of trying new things) so I went online for a nosey.

When I had a look at their website (check it out here) there were so many styles and colours to choose from.
Blue, green, tan, nude… I was spoilt for choice!
After much ‘humming and hawing’ I decided on this hooded jacket.
It has such a carefree and cool feel to it.

When the jacket arrived I was delighted.
{In fact, that is a bit of an understatement!}
I was so impressed with the quality of the leather.
The fit is perfect.
(I am wearing a small, and usually fit a UK large 8/small 10)
There is also plenty of room inside for a cosy jumper.

{I don’t see the point in any autumn/winter jacket that can’t fit a jumper underneath. This is Scotland after all!}

The jacket has the most ingenious way to remove the hood, where the internal front section unzips taking the hood with it.
Removing the hood gives the jacket a smarter look, and suitable for any season.

{I will wear it like that another time}

Todays outfit was so simple to pull together.
Blue velvet jeans (velvet is big news this Autumn) and patent black boots… I think these are my new favourites!
A cosy petrol coloured jumper, with eyelet details and lace-up sides, added more richness and interest.
It was cold today, so I added a pair of woolen gloves and a thermal baselayer.

3 Ways to wear leather, over 40.

1. Pick a colour that suits you.

Yes, black is timeless (and cool) BUT does it really suit your colouring?
If it does then lucky you!
Enjoy it.

If not, don’t worry.
Black is quite a tricky colour to wear, and not many people actually suit it.
However, with the vast range of colours available in the shops, there is sure to be something to suit you and your personal style.
Have fun with it!

2. Choose a style you love, regardless of trends.

Of course the classic biker jacket is always in style BUT if you love the look of a cream leather pencil dress then go for it.
Leather culottes? Why not?!
Life is for living.

3. Try something different.

Trying bright colour or an unexpected shape… like a green leather t-shirt, blue leather jacket or a red pencil skirt …and really put a spring in your step.
You can wear anything you want!