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For decades leather has played a hugely significant role in the fashion industry and a controversial one at that. What began as simplistic sandals for the Egyptians, dating back to 5000BC, evolved into modified biker jackets for the 70s Punks. In today's world, leather is everywhere and is one of the most versatile materials to craft from. From runways to street style, it would be a rarity to see an outfit lacking any leather. But in a society where a rising number of us are trying to make sustainable alterations to our lifestyles, should we not all be wearing faux instead? I mean, you really can’t be taken seriously protesting about climate change whilst stomping around wearing leather Dr Martens.

 

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As a material that will never become dated, for Spring 2020 select designers utilised the fabric for entire ensembles as opposed to the usual shoes, handbags or jackets. Although you can never go wrong with a classic black piece, patterned and colour-infused leather is the modern route this trend is taking. From a rich burnt-umber cargo pant in a unique perforated leather to a chocolate brown, high neck, patchwork dress with buckle details; Hermes injected deep autumnal shades into their collection which gave a softness to a material that can sometimes feel harsh.

 

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Taking a more traditional spin on the trend, Versace’s black leather blazer dress was another drool-worthy look that graced the runway. The exaggerated sleeves and broad shoulder line emphasised the model’s waist that was cinched with a gold logo belt. Layered on top of a simple blue and white striped button-up and embellished with incredibly detailed gold buttons, this look was the power suit of our dreams and a big yes.

 

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Commonly worn to add an edge to any outfit, designers like Valentino did just this by giving us a contemporary twist on the infamous leather jacket. Making the trend feel more wearable for the everyday fashion lover, Valentino layered a floor-length black lace dress with a deep v-neck revealing a sleek white poplin shirt underneath. Topped off with a cropped black leather jacket with dropped shoulder puffed sleeves, this look was the perfect blend of romanticism and androgyny.

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As a capsule material in anyone's wardrobe, whether it be a pair of simple black boots or a personalised biker jacket, leather is essential to many. The trend continues to grow in popularity as brands come out with different patterns and colours of the material, but this comes at a price for our planet. Society's awareness of the effects that everything we consume has on our environment is expanding and so is our intrigue in locating where our clothing comes from and how it has an effect on pollution and climate change.

 

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The process of ensuring that leather is ready to be sold contributes to water pollution as its often dyed and tanned with extreme amounts of chemicals. Environmental advocate and blogger Allison Zobrist (sustainoneplanet.com) states the importance of faux fabrics and that leather is “unethical and unsustainable so people who like to wear leather should consider other options”. According to PETA “most major brands offer animal-free leather these days” which is a positive progression for the industry. After Dr Martens released their vegan shoes and boots, their sales increased by 70%, proving the public’s interest in alternative leather options. High-street stores such as Topshop and Zara also produce a lot of great faux-leather products for an accessible price point. Although, major designers that are renowned for their luxury leather goods, such as Gucci, Burberry and Coach still use premium cowhide, which is a “coproduct of the meat and dairy industries”.

 

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Certain high-end brands are sticking to their routes and dismissing the use of faux, for the moment at least. Whilst other designers are creating fabrics that mimic the look of leather, to save our furry friends and the planet. Mugler’s Spring 2020 collection featured a pair of black futuristic embossed cycling shorts, that looked like leather but where in-fact mainly polyethylene. The amount of designers that are using leather alternatives is growing as the trend is increasing in popularity and the products are only going to get bigger and better.

 

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So, you want to indulge in the leather trend but don’t fancy contributing to climate change? No problem. From high-end to high-street, a long list of brands have got you covered for your faux desires. Leather is one of the select few fabrics that feel timeless and continues to adapt and change with contemporary fashion. Coming in essentially every pattern or colour under the sun, the versatility of the material allows anyone to incorporate it into their wardrobe to suit their personal style. Whether you choose to go faux or not, this trend is here for Spring 2020 and it’s here to stay.

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