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As the heatwave gripped New York City, with temperatures soaring above 80 degrees, actress Maika Monroe made headlines by stepping out in an unexpected choice for summer: a patent sheep leather outfit. Monroe, known for her role in the thriller “Longlegs,” was spotted in this bold textile, which seemed out of place for the sweltering weather. Her striking look included a leather sarong and a matching bra, making quite an impression at the LA premiere of her latest film.
But Monroe isn’t the only star embracing leather despite the summer heat. Mia Goth, another prominent figure in the horror genre, chose a leather corset midi dress by Versace for her appearance on Jimmy Kimmel Live earlier this month. At the premiere of “MaXXXine” in LA, Goth also donned an edgy Ludovic de Saint Sernin halter-neck dress featuring a peek-a-boo leather bralet, further proving that leather can make a statement even in the warmer months.
Monroe chose a leather sarong and matching bralet for the LA premiere of her new film, "Longlegs." (Shutterstock)
Not confined to horror film stars, the leather trend has caught on with other celebrities as well. On July 11, Kate Hudson was seen in Soho, Manhattan, sporting a pair of sultry lace-up leather pants. Meanwhile, in London, TV and radio presenter Vick Hope made waves at Wimbledon in a full burgundy leather ensemble, which included a vest, shorts, and a collarless leather overcoat. Despite the British summer being more accommodating to such outfits, it’s clear that leather is making its mark across various climates.
Monroe's all-leather outfit from Hervé Leger was an unexpected choice for summer in the city. Getty Images
Rita Ora, in promotion of her new film “Descents: The Rise of Red,” has fully embraced the leather trend, wearing multiple leather outfits in New York. Her commitment to the scarlet theme has seen her stepping out in striking red leather ensembles, adding to the summer’s unexpected fashion statements.
Earlier this month, Mia Goth was seen wearing a Versace corset midi dress. Getty Images
The summer resurgence of leather might seem surprising, given its traditional association with winter wardrobes. However, the material’s presence in summer fashion is not entirely new. This shift began with Bottega Veneta, an Italian fashion house known for pushing the boundaries of textile use. In September 2022, creative director Matthieu Blazy introduced a range of leather optical illusions on the Fall-Winter runway, showcasing new possibilities for the material. Bottega Veneta’s innovation included blue jeans, plaid shirts, and woven beach bags crafted from leather, redefining its seasonal relevance.
Kate Hudson was spotted wearing lace-up leather pants. Getty Images
Additionally, the influence of pop stars cannot be ignored. Dua Lipa’s choice to open her Glastonbury Festival set in a custom Chrome Hearts leather mini-dress and Rosalía’s high-shine leather pants at Coachella are prime examples of how leading musicians are integrating leather into their summer wardrobes. Charli XCX, who has garnered acclaim for her album “Brat,” often sports scuffed-up YSL leather coats, further showcasing the material's versatility and year-round appeal.
Dua Lipa kicked off her Glastonbury Festival performance in a leather mini dress by Chrome Hearts. AP Photo
The trend of wearing leather beyond its usual winter confines reflects a broader shift in fashion, where traditional materials are being reimagined for different seasons. Whether through high-profile red-carpet appearances or everyday street style, leather has proven its adaptability and enduring allure.
In conclusion, while leather was once synonymous with winter fashion, its summer appeal is now undeniable. Celebrities like Maika Monroe, Mia Goth, Kate Hudson, and Rita Ora have all embraced this bold textile, challenging conventional seasonal fashion norms. From high-fashion runways to music festival stages, leather’s versatility has transformed it into a year-round staple.
