The perfect legging-and-leather-jacket combos for fall

You’ve got your Emma Watson-approved white sneakers, perfected that braided ponytail, and you’re almost out the door, when you pause at your coat closet.

Your printed leggings are on-trend, but it’s too chilly outside to go sans jacket. (Serious problems, I know.) But there’s a simple solution to your in-between-season woes: the leather jacket.

And while it may seem tricky to pair such a specific jacket with your trendiest leggings, it’s actually quite straightforward. Depending on the color and fabric, there are tried-and-true rules that will help you avoid a trying-too-hard) look. So you’re keeping it chic, but perfectly temperature controlled—at least until winter.

Scroll down to see the perfect leather jacket-and-legging pairings to keep you looking cool (and feeling warm) all season.

Photo: Frank+Oak, Sweaty Betty

Classic black moto jacket

When it comes to this classic, there’s no going wrong. Pair it with sleek black leggings, a cool understated print, or go all out with a fun and loud pattern—this jacket will complete any look.

Frank + Oak Leather Moto Jacket in Black, $445Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity Run Leggings, $135

(Faux) shearling collar jacket

This look is minimal, but with a twist. Make sure to complement—not overpower—your top half with an understated print on the bottom. Look for something that has similar colors to your collar (in this case white) to really bring the look together.

H&M Wool-blend Pilot Jacket, $59.99Bodyism I Am Adventurous Printed Stretch Jersey Leggings, $160

Leather vest

A vest adds a little bit of edginess, but the sleeveless style keeps it from stealing the show. To create serious cool-girl vibes, pair your vest with a subtly sexy legging with a colorful sheen, leather panels, or mesh cutouts.

Maje Leather Vest, $595Koral Helix Leggings, $125

Patterned jacket

When looking to match a patterned leather jacket, there’s no need to be afraid of a little pattern on the bottom. The key to staying chic—and not like you got dressed in the dark—is to pair patterns that are different, yet work together. (Power clashing FTW!) Look for similar colors, but opposite prints—like color-blocking with polka dots, or pairing stripes with a more abstract pattern.

Comme Des Garcons Girl Polka Dot Biker Jacket, $1,065No Ka’oi Kina Color-Block Stretch Jersey Leggings, $230

Suede jacket

With suede, the softer sister of leather, the look is little less edgy—although still super-chic. You have a little bit more freedom with the softer fabric, so don’t be afraid to mix patterns and colors—just make sure that they are more pared-down or lighter-hued, so that they add to the look without outshining it.

H&M Imitation Suede Biker Jacket, $69.99Lucas Hugh Inco Printed Stretch Legging, $315

Colored jacket

For a leather jacket in any other color besides black, adding any other hues to the mix can take a look from downtown chic to “I packed the wrong jacket,” if you’re not careful. Stay within a range of neutral colors—like black, navy, and gray—to avoid an over-the-top look.

Madewell Washed Leather Motorcycle Jacket, $498Aday Throw & Roll Leggings, $125

Budget-Friendly Jacket

Although faux-leather these days is no joke—you can barely tell the difference!—if you’re worried about the quality, play up your leggings. This fun and loud print will keep all eyes on your super-chic bottom half.

Pink Queen Classic Punk Rivet Cool Lapel Blazer, $27.70Popmap Black and White Leggings, $25

To complete your perfect fall look, try any of these new street style sneakers, seen at New York Fashion Week, and swipe on this season’s perfect pumpkin spice lipstick shades.