We are used to seeing royal women in formal skirts, expensive gowns or, from time to time, even jeans. 

Yet even today, leather, is likely to raise an eyebrow or two.

It was Princess Diana who first led the way when she wore bright scarlet trousers for a theatre outing in 1987.

Leather has slowly and stylishly been infiltrating royal wardrobes ever since…

Diana, Princess of Wales

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Princess Diana made a memorable entrance at Her Majesty’s Theatre in 1987 – thanks to her striking leather trousers

Always one to break the mould, Princess Diana made a memorable entrance at Her Majesty’s Theatre in the West End in 1987 – thanks to her striking leather trousers.

For a performance of Phantom of the Opera, the royal paired her vibrant trousers with a voluminous bomber jacket, showcasing her distinctive style.

Queen Letizia of Spain 

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Queen Letizia of Spain has reached for her Hugo Boss leather trousers on three occasions. Above: During an outing in Barcelona in November 2022

A staple in Queen Letizia’s wardrobe, these Hugo Boss trousers have been worn by her on three separate occasions.

Made from genuine leather, they incorporate a flattering high waist and a slim, cropped leg.

The rich berry hue offers a welcome splash of colour, without being overly conspicuous.

Meghan, Duchess of Sussex

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Meghan Markle impressed in a pair of form-fitting leather trousers at a 2016 Suits event in New York

Meghan Markle is known for her appreciation of leather in its various forms, ranging from biker jackets to pencil skirts.

In 2016, she impressed at a Suits event in New York, wearing a pair of form-fitting leather trousers.

She completed her polished ensemble with nude lace-up heels and a swipe of red lipstick.

Charlene, Princess of Monaco 

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Princess Charlene showed off her edgy flair in Philip Plein trousers at the 2017 Princess Grace Awards gala

Princess Charlene of Monaco demonstrated her edgy flair at the 2017 Princess Grace Awards gala.

For the occasion, the royal chose faux leather Philip Plein trousers, a Prince of Wales checked bustier and classic court shoes.

To finish her outfit, she draped a double-breasted blazer across her shoulders.

Princess Eugenie 

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Princess Eugenie exuded glamour as she arrived at Casa Cruz restaurant in Notting Hill in 2020

After employing stylist Olivia Buckingham, Princess Eugenie quickly transformed into a style maven.

The royal showed off her newfound glamour during an excursion in Notting Hill in 2020.

Her outfit featured a pair of faux leather leggings, which proved perfect for the swanky location of Casa Cruz restaurant.

Queen Maxima of the Netherlands

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Queen Maxima of the Netherlands lived up to her style reputation at the meeting of NLgroeit at Centraal Beheer

Beloved for her bold fashion choices, Queen Maxima of the Netherlands did not disappoint in this plum-coloured ensemble.

She teamed a Zara polka dot blouse with cropped leather trousers, completing the look with suede court shoes for a meeting in 2019.

Zara Tindall 

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Zara Tindall paired sleek leather trousers with a suede trench coat for a visit to the races in April

Zara Tindall was the epitome of chic during a recent visit to Cheltenham Racecourse.

The daughter of Princess Anne opted for sleek leather trousers, paired with a suede trench coat by Fairfax and Favor.

Adding a touch of sophistication, she accessorised with a Camilla Rose Millinery headband, LK Bennett boots and an Aspinal of London bag, resulting in a flawless aesthetic.