Leather: It’s As Simple As Black And White

Shrinking violets may want to avoid today’s short black patent leather jacket because it’s guaranteed to draw attention to the wearer with its nifty contrast seams and snap down front. This jacket says fashion forward all over.

At $32 the price couldn’t be better. This jacket will look great with pants, shorts and skirts. Just remember, when wearing a jacket as high profile as this, stick with a black or black and white color scheme.

Shine is showing up a lot in resort, spring and summer collections, from trench coats to bikinis and in all the accessories. But to avoid investing too heavily in a fad that may be over tomorrow, buy classic pieces that will still be appropriate after the shiny trend has faded.

Designer version

Black patent leather jacket by Swann, $328

White Lycra blend tee by Bisou-Bisou, $58

Black cotton Spandex jeans by Michele Bohbot, $88

Black patent high heel loafer by Chanel, $575

Total: $1,049

Dress For Less version

Black patent jacket by Wipette Kenn Sporn-Downtown at Accessory Lady, $32

White nylon tee by Jalette Limited, $18.20

Black jeans by Calvin Klein, $45

Black patent high-heel loafers by Enzo Angiolini at 9 West stores, $84

Items above available at major department stores

Total: $179.20