The Vegan Fashion Trend That's Taking Off in 2019
I feel sorry for leather-look trousers. For far too long, they've been blighted by the misconception that they're "cheap-looking" and second-rate. Often labelled as "wet look" or "PU" (aka coated fabric), there's no doubt that these words have done nothing to help its reputation. While the description is important (especially for increasingly savvy shoppers), faux leather was once seen as the fashion equivalent of going to Disneyland Paris: It might have the desired effect, but you know you don't have the real deal (it's Disney World or nothing—let's be honest). However, things are changing. Thanks to the increase in veganism and interest in cruelty-free products, vegan leather is having its moment.
According to Lyst, the global fashion search platform, searches for faux- and vegan-leather trousers are up by 55% month on month. Back in February, fashion industry magazine Drapers reported that from August 2015 to September 2018 consumer insights company Hitwise saw a 39% increase in searches for vegan fashion or vegan clothes in the UK.
At Who What Wear UK, we've watched this trend play out in real life, as we constantly see people wearing vegan sneakers from Veja. The brand—which has only been stocked on Net-a-Porter since 2017—became one of the site's biggest-selling products the week it launched.
All of this means one thing: There's a real appetite for this kind of product. But while leather-look trousers used to just mean skintight drainpipe styles or wet-look leggings, there are now so many chic styles that are just as good—if not better—than their leather counterparts. Don't believe me? Keep scrolling for proof.
Not the most inexpensive option, but they're so classic that you'll keep them in your wardrobe forever.
Of course, Stella has your back when it comes to vegan leather.
The slight sheen on these make them feel pretty fabulous.
Related: 9 Easy Wedding Guest Outfit Ideas That Work Every Single Time
Stretchy-waistband versions are ideal for a more casual wardrobe.
If you're really into vegan leather, make sure Nanushka is on your list, as it also offers up faux-leather shirts, jackets and dresses.
Think leather-look trousers are uncomfortable? Try ones with an elasticated waist.
Related: The 5 Jackets I Wear on Repeat, and the Outfits I Always Wear Them With
For the office or the weekend, you'll get so much wear out of these.
Want more? Make sure you check out our guide to the biggest autumn/winter 2019 trends.
-
Forget Bombers—Stylish Women in L.A. and Paris Much Prefer This Elegant Jacket Trend
Jennifer Lawrence included.
By Eliza Huber
-
Law Roach's World: His New Book, Bag of Choice, and What He Grabs on a Target Run
"[Styling] has made my world so much bigger."
By Jasmine Fox-Suliaman
-
Bella Hadid and Hailey Bieber Are Already Wearing 2025's Most-Wanted Jacket Trend
Meet fashion's next obsession.
By Eliza Huber
-
Anne Hathaway Wore the 2025 Pant Trend That's So Much Cooler Than Jeans
It's leather weather.
By Drew Elovitz
-
I'm in My 20s—Here Are 6 Style Lessons I Learned to Look More Polished and Grown-Up
Sophisticated styling 101.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
8 Copenhagen Street Style Trends I Plan to Replicate in New York
Pared back yet never boring.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Anne Hathaway Wore Skinny Leather Pants With This Hyper-Elegant Shoe Trend
Every detail of this look was perfect.
By Eliza Huber
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—I Reach For These 2 Pieces When I Don't Know What to Wear
Ready in 10 minutes or less.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes