Leather

Never underestimate the powerful effect a little leather mini has on your outfit. Even in the warmer months, it packs a punch when you style it up like Fab reader BrittandWhit does with an army-hued blazer and a breezy blouse underneath. And, when you finish it off, don't underestimate the value of a few well-placed jewels, either. We love how her feathery earrings and long, beaded necklace counter the slick leather with their own bohemian vibe.

Congrats to BrittandWhit!

Everyone else, submit your looks, and I might just feature you on FabSugar!

Last week I bought this antique leather wing chair at an antique shop in San Francisco. I'm kind of obsessed with it! It has so many amazing features like nailhead trim, turned-wood arms, a ladder back, and of course, tufted leather. Its leather cushion is also worn in and a little cracked, which is the well-loved look that I'd been seeking.

When I bought it, the leather was a little worse for the wear, the nailhead was dusty, and the wooden legs were scratched up. After spending an hour or so sprucing it up, it's looking mighty fine, I must say. If you have a new old leather and wood chair on your hands that could use a pick-me-up, I have some restoration tips for you.
Here's what I did to get my sexy seat into shape:

• First, I removed the seat and vacuumed every nook and cranny to get rid of dust and other particles.
• Then, I slightly dampened a clean rag and ran it across the surface of the nail head and wooden trim to reach dust the vacuum couldn't. Then I ran a clean, microfiber cloth across the leather to pick up dust on the cushion and tufts.
• To restore the wood and conceal scuff marks, I purchased Old English Scratch Cover for Light Wood. To use it, begin by applying the solution on a clean, white rag to the scratches and dents only. When it dries (in only a few minutes), apply the solution to the whole surface of the wood, continuing to add more of the scratch cover to your rag every few swipes. Make sure not to let it touch your rugs, upholstery, or other textiles.
• To repair the leather, I picked up Lexol Leather Conditioner, which is revered among furniture refinishers and autobody professionals. It extends the life of the leather by restoring oils and keeping it soft and supple. First, test it in an inconspicuous spot. Then, apply the solution to the entire surface of the leather with a clean cotton rag. Let it be absorbed for about 20 minutes. Then, buff off the solution with another clean rag, and voilà: conditioned as a whistle!

While the rest of us are still experimenting with how to wear just one leather piece, Olivia Palermo has taken it to a new level of cool with two shades of buttery, leathery goodness. We love how the two pieces pair effortlessly, not as if they came together in some kind of prestyled set but met up organically to complement the look. That's exactly how you want to wear it — the leather mix-and-match isn't about creating a leather suit, it's about finding complementary shades, like a worn, brown jacket and pretty, pale green skirt. Then, do just as Olivia does, and fight the Catwoman effect by throwing in softer textures, like a cozy fur vest or a cashmere sweater.

We love discovering new unusual fashions that make our jaws drop and ask, How would you wear that? We've seen some funky things like odd shapewear and crazy jeans, but these Ellery Vain Skirted Leather Shorts. ($1,000) really grabbed our attention. I can't decide what's more funky: the draped side pockets or the price tag! This begs the question: Would you wear them? And if so, how? Apparently some gals have because sizes zero through six are sold out! I'd love to hear from them as well. Tell me your thoughts below.

When Winter hits, there's a call for cold-weather gear, and usually, it gets a cozy tilt. But, this week, that's not what I'm after. I want a city-chic, slick leather look that's ready to stomp the streets in high style. Body-con, sleek leather pants, skirts, and tights, I'm craving something sophisticated and maybe just a little flashy to turn heads on the city streets. Think you can handle it? I can't wait to see what you come up with!

There are no rules, only utter creativity. Remember to create your spread in ShopStyle, then post it in the Fab Stylist group — here are detailed instructions.