Leather shorts are this season’s ‘it’ item. Think you can’t wear them? Think again. They’re surprisingly versatile, consummately cool and, what’s more, they can be sexed up or played down, depending on how fashion forward you’re feeling.

As a contemporary high-fashion version of the traditional lederhosen (that’s German for trousers) worn by Bavarian boys and yodellers, leather shorts have been appearing on the runways for a few seasons now. Chloe sent micro-fitted pairs down the runway, Hermès wowed the fash pack with a brick-coloured pair complete with matching jacket and Yves Saint Laurent turned out leather short-clad models wearing shiny slash-hem flap-front styles… But this rock-chick-come-sultry-kittenish look has also translated through to A-listers, celebs and, of course, the high street – with Zara, Topshop, House of Fraser and Debenhams all sporting their own takes on the trend.

And perhaps the best thing about leather shorts is their all-season longevity. As a host of style-savvy celebs have shown, leather shorts are as functional for cold weather wear as they are for warm, sunny days. Keep them real and down-to-earth through the summer by teaming with sandals and a tee or tank top, then roll them out again through autumn/winter with thick tights, pumps and a skinny polo neck and blazer.

Here are StyleJunkee’s golden rules to street-chic leather short heaven:

Leather shorts are one trend you can legitimately wear to work: pair with a well-tailored blazer and stiletto sandals for a smart but hip business look.

Remember at all times, leather shorts are refined hot pants so treat them as such and don’t go too trampy, with skimpy tops and trashy bare legs in heels. A bit of moderation goes a long way and, if you’re planning on showing off those pins, balance the look by not revealing too much flesh on your upper half.

Despite sounding scary, leather shorts are pretty low maintenance. Just wear them with the same pieces you would denim shorts or skinny denim jeans. Let’s face it; they’re definitely less girlie and easier to wear than mini skirts.

For a great summertime look, pair with a floaty floral top or halterneck.

Take the lead of the celebs for a leather short-look to turn heads:

Do a Kylie Minogue and go for a high-waisted number and a demure chiffon nude-toned top, or steal Kate Moss’ style by wearing your leather shorts full on and feisty with black tights and a leopard print jacket.

Or how about rivalling American pop singer and actress Miley Cyrus’ rock-chick style with leather shorts, a lumberjack shirt and a beanie?

Alexa Chung loves her leather shorts worn with naked legs, ballet flats, a denim shirt and a cool, cool hair-do.

Sex up a casual jumper with a pair of leather shorts and shoe boots a la Kylie Minogue.

Here’s our handpicked selection of the best leather shorts around at the moment…

Horace leather shorts, £185, at ASOS

Suede turn-up leather shorts, £360, at Juicy Couture at Net-a-Porter

Label lab leather shorts, £45, at House of Fraser

Marylou leather shorts, £155, at French Connection

PU shorts in mink, £40, at John Lewis