pvc tights, sometimes latex (call them liquid leggings if you want to sound less industrial), walked down the runways around this time three years ago and its leather counterpart followed very soon after (in fact, leather pants still made it to some of the current collections). the most purist of stylists claim the pvc tights are so over because leather leggings have taken their place, but for others who are less conscious of hot-off-the-runway pieces, the pvc/latex versions of these skin-tight pants are still in fashion. in fact, since it takes a while for designer pieces to get imitated into mass produced merchandise, i have just been seeing pvc and latex tights in some racks.
pvc (polyvinyl chloride, something i used to only know as the main material in pipes and other construction items) is extremely shiny, so shiny it has that permanent wet look to it. leather, on the other hand, is less glossy, but slick nonetheless, and both have that rock star, vampy vibe to them. it is one thing to slink and slither into the things and another to actually pull them off. and whether you wear the plastic or the animal hide, it seems you have to adhere to the same fundamental rules in wearing it.
- these pants command attention. the last thing you want is for any other piece in your outfit compete for that attention. so instead of wearing a top that sparkles and shines, why not a cotton tunic? slouchy knits or cardigans would also look great. you may even opt for something dressy and feminine to off-set the aggressive edge (see above photo). some lace and a few embellishments, though please note that any beading shouldn’t be so dazzling, you’d look like you’re off to a halloween party; try pearls, for instance.
- heels look best. wear flats if you must, but if you just had to risk yourself into the pants, go full throttle with your towering heels. if the weather permits, leather boots would make a stunning partner. but whatever you do, avoid chunky footwear like stacked wedges or espadrilles. no flip-flops either. they would ruin the whole sleek effect.
- literally, how do you wear them? not everyone is a size zero, which would make the pulling up and securing a more challenging feat. apply baby powder on your legs before putting them on, you would find that it would “slide” easier. you may even want to put them on the way you would a pair of pantyhose. that is, scrunch the leg and put them on one at a time.
- take note that this fit in this material can exaggerate features that you are trying to… well, hide, and can even encourage — i hate to say this — the camel-toe, so if you think you can’t last a minute in skin-tight pants, consider a bigger size. some scrunch may even look great, plus it would be more comfortable, for sure.
so if you can take the fashion risk, go get yourself a pair. my advice? if you are thinking of this as an investment, opt for the latex or the leather version. i think the too-slick pvc would look too dated in a couple of months. that’s just my opinion, you don’t have to take my word on that…
victoria beckham wears a loose-fitting off-shoulder tunic over her tight latex pants.
michelle trachtenberg pulls it off with a dressy tunic and a pair of sleek mary jane wedges.
model lily donaldson in a relaxed tank and blazer.
fergie wears hers with stiletto boots, cotton tank and a slouchy cropped jacket
miley cyrus. a little more pop star than what we are willing to wear. lose the vest and wear a tame-colored hat. stick to the graphic cotton tee and statement belt. that would work for lesser stars like us.
just remember, daring pieces take a lot courage. if you wear it, wear it with conviction. if you have inhibitions, don’t even try it. there is nothing more awkward than a girl wearing leather tights with very little self-confidence.
model marisa miller goes leather on leather with the jacket and tights. you think you can go all rock star like that? i can't.
images from just jared, fashion archives, the juicer, berry jane and gossip rocks.
