How to Style a Faux Leather Skirt (Modest Outfit Ideas)

A faux leather skirt sounds edgy, but in a modest midi or maxi length it's one of the most polished pieces you can own. It has a soft sheen that looks dressy, it wipes clean, and it blocks the wind better than most fabrics on a cold day.

Here's how I pick a faux leather skirt and the outfits that make it feel classic instead of loud.

What to look for in a modest faux leather skirt

• Length. Midi to mid-calf, or a full maxi. A longer hem looks elegant and softens the material.
• Shape. A-line, flared and gently pleated styles are the easiest to wear and to walk in. A straight pencil cut needs a slit, so check how high it goes.
• Weight. Look for a soft, supple fabric that drapes. Stiff, shiny vinyl tends to crease and squeak.
• Finish. A matte or low-sheen finish looks more expensive and works for more occasions than a high gloss.
• Waist. An elastic back or a smooth flat front with a side zip keeps the line clean under sweaters.
• Lining. A lined skirt is more comfortable, slides over tights and doesn't stick when it's warm indoors.

The best colors to start with

• Black. The classic. It goes with every color and is the easiest to dress up.
• Chocolate brown. Warm and rich, and lovely with cream, camel and blush.
• Burgundy and wine. A fall favorite that feels festive for Shabbos and holidays.
• Olive and forest green. Earthy shades that look great with ivory and rust.
• Camel and tan. Soft and light, and perfect with oatmeal and white knits.

If you're buying your first one, choose black or chocolate brown. Both work all fall and winter.

Tops that work with faux leather

• Chunky knit sweaters. The cozy texture balances the smooth sheen. Tuck in the front or add a belt.
• Fine-knit turtlenecks. Sleek and simple, they make the outfit look put together in seconds.
• Silky blouses. A long-sleeve blouse with a bow or soft collar turns the skirt into an evening look.
• Button-down shirts. A crisp white or striped shirt keeps it fresh for work.
• Fitted long-sleeve tees. For errands, a plain tee in cream, gray or black keeps things relaxed.

Since faux leather is already a statement fabric, keep the top simple. One soft texture, like a knit or silk, is plenty.

Layers for cold days

• Long cardigans. A cardigan that ends just above the hem softens the look and adds warmth.
• Blazers. A tailored blazer makes a faux leather skirt ready for the office.
• Wool coats. A camel or charcoal coat is the most elegant match for cold mornings.
• Knit vests. A sweater vest over a shirt gives a polished, slightly preppy feel.

Shoes and tights

• Opaque tights. Black tights with a black skirt create one long, slim line. Brown works with brown.
• Knee-high boots. The easiest choice for midi lengths, especially in a matching color.
• Ankle boots. A low block heel or lug sole is comfortable and looks current.
• Loafers. Polished and easy for work and Shabbos walks.
• Ballet flats. Soft and feminine with a flared midi skirt.
• Sneakers. Clean white sneakers with a maxi skirt make a relaxed weekend look.

Easy faux leather skirt outfit formulas

1. Black faux leather midi skirt plus cream cable-knit sweater plus black knee-high boots for a fall weekday
2. Chocolate faux leather maxi skirt plus ivory turtleneck plus long camel cardigan plus loafers for Shabbos
3. Burgundy faux leather skirt plus blush silky blouse plus black tights plus ballet flats for a family simcha
4. Black pleated faux leather skirt plus white button-down shirt plus gray blazer plus loafers for work
5. Olive faux leather skirt plus rust sweater plus brown ankle boots for a weekend outing
6. Camel faux leather midi skirt plus fitted cream tee plus white sneakers for errands

Dressing it up or down

To dress a faux leather skirt up, choose black or burgundy, add a silky blouse or fine-knit sweater, a tailored coat and heeled boots or pumps. To dress it down, wear it with a chunky sweater or a simple tee and flat boots or sneakers. The sheen already does a lot, so the rest of the outfit can stay quiet.

Caring for a faux leather skirt

• Spot clean with a damp cloth and a little mild soap, then wipe dry.
• Don't put it in the dryer, since heat can crack or peel the coating.
• Hang it on a clip hanger by the waistband so it doesn't crease.
• To smooth wrinkles, let it hang in a steamy bathroom or use a steamer from a distance.
• Never iron directly on the fabric. If you must, press on the inside with a cloth between.
• Always follow the care label, since some styles can be hand washed and others can't.

The bottom line

A faux leather skirt is easier to wear than it looks. Pick a midi or maxi length in black or brown, pair it with soft knits or a crisp shirt, and finish with boots or loafers. It adds a little polish to every outfit and holds up to busy days.

Some links on this site may be affiliate links. Read the disclosure.