Is plus size fashion limited when it comes to leather? (Photo : SimplyBe.com )

In a recent conversation with one of my favorite curvy friends, I suggested that she get some leather items for fall and she told me "Us Big Girls, can't wear leather!" For a moment, her comment took me back to the past - a past where I'd lived in ill-fitting skirts and pants from places like Wilson's House of Suede and Leather (hey, it was the early 90's!).  

I LOVE leather, the feel, the smell, the look; I even love the vegan and faux-leather and always have! Back then, I was willing to compromise true fashion just for the chance to rock leather that was often too tight or didn't fit well at all.  I could never find the cutest items in my size or that seemed to compliment my shape, which isn't quite straight size, but not quite, plus size either.

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Luckily, curvy fashion is having a moment and leather (despite what my friend says) is definitely here for the curvy woman!

On my curvy girls CAN wear leather, Must-Haves List:

Leather Jacket

A great leather jacket can last you for years.  The motorcycle/leather jacket trend is big this fall and since fitting the ample curvy top can be difficult, I suggest you invest in a jacket from a good plus size focused brand like the recently launched MYNT1792, whose line is now on Nordstrom.com.  There are TONS of great leather looks for the fall.  

I was introduced to MYNT, recently at their Plus Size Blogger conference co-hosted by PlusModel Magazine, and the gorgeous model Allison McGevna was modeling their python faux leather moto jacket (in red) and I was in love. 

Leather Leggings/Pants

Zara

Every curvy girl is a bit intimidated by leather pants.  Thighs rubbing together, sweat stains, it conjures up all the wrong images.  But today's leather pant options include a blend or faux leather and offer cuts that flatter your body instead of constraining it.  I have been coveting these Zara Leather Effect Leggings that offer the comfort and fit of leggings, but with the look of leather.

Leather Details

SimplyBe.com

Ok, so if you are thinking, "I don't need leather leggings, I'll feel like I am going to start a BBQ," then an item with leather touches will be perfect for you.  It allows you to be on trend without feeling like a cowgirl. 

I love this leather inspired tunic from SimplyBe.  The dress has just enough faux-leather detail to be on trend and has a shape and style that can be dressed up or down.

Leather is BIG this fall and the options in larger straight sizes (12) and plus sizes (14+) are the exact opposite of the leather options of my teens.  There are a ton of great options out this fall from both straight and plus size retailers that will work well on a curvy body.

About the author: Erica Michele is the Founder of CurvyintheCity a blog dedicated to curves, culture and cuisine. Originally from Los Angeles, CA but currently living in Brooklyn, NY she scours the New York City to marry her love of food, culture and looking good from her unique curvy point of view.

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