Leather Shorts: A Fashion Do or Don’t?

Leather shorts have been showing up on runways and fashion pages for over a season now, and for some reason I am obsessed with them.  The problem is, I have passed that certain age when comfortably wearing leather shorts is OK, to lingering in a place where wearing leather shorts elicits a response akin to “…what are you THINKING?”  But I can’t seem to shake my fashion curiosity, and every time a cute pair pops up in a magazine spread or on my computer screen, I try to convince myself that they are a worthwhile investment that I could actually pull off.   This pair is currently being featured on the Shopbop.com Lookbook:

Doesn’t the model look adorable in these!  Granted, $735 is kind of steep for a limited use piece, but they are gorgeous, nonetheless.

Another pair I love are these vegan leather shorts from Free People.

Much more reasonably priced, and made of a synthetic material that feels like real leather but is animal friendly, these shorts could become a wardrobe staple  if done right.  I confess I have tried them on in the store but the 2″ rise scares me away.

A more happy medium are these beauties from the Olsen line Elizabeth & James:

I love the longer rise and the cuff detail, although the pleating at the waist can often add unwanted bulk – something I don’t want to think about while sporting confidence dubious leather shorts!

If you decide to go the way of the short, tights and mid calf high boots can help transition this traditionally summer staple into the cooler months of fall.  Just try to keep your colors in the same family so you don’t look chopped into sections.  Add a texture rich sweater or cropped jacket and you’re all set to make a hip statement.