What season are you fashion?

Leather, and especially faux leather pieces, are trending in fashion this winter. Usually limited to outerwear with jackets and coats, it’s showing up this season in the form of blazers, skirts, tops, dresses, pants and fun accessories as well. Besides the traditional colors of black and brown, brands are also showing more color — most of them neutral.

Before we get into the styling suggestions:

1. Genuine leather is from an animal. It is long-lasting, breathable and resistant, and it does not age.

2. Faux leather is made of plastic materials, and vegan leather is made with, among other things, algae and cork. These are less pricey alternatives to real leather, but they will age over time.

3.Waxed leather is another affordable alternative. The waxed coating mimics the texture and sheen of the real thing.

4.Real leather needs to be spot-cleaned with warm water and dish soap or taken to a reputable cleaner. Faux, vegan and waxed leather can be easily washed, but you must follow the manufacturer’s directions.

5.Leather goes so well with other textures like velvet, suede and silk. But, save leather on leather for power dressing!

Here are some leather and faux leather pieces to show how they can be styled in different ways, both casual and dressy.