Like I mentioned elsewhere, there were some comments about this on the Askmen.com website. The gist was wear them where they won't stand out. A trendy restaurant/nightclub/bar is a safe bet. But it might not be a good idea if you plan to do a lot of dancing. I hear they can get really uncomfortable then.
Some guys talk about (and perhaps do) wear them to work. I don't work in an environment where I think that would be a good idea, but I guess it's up to you. For a first time, you probably want to try some place where you think there might be others wearing them.
The first time I wore my pants in public, it was a nice restaurant on New Year's Eve. And, I saw at least 5 other guys wearing leather pants! The other times, it has been in more casual settings. And, you know, my friends didn't even comment on them.
When can I wear them?
Most people suggest that you only wear them when the weather is cold to cool: Fall through Spring. I guess it depends on where you live. It might depend a bit on what kind of pants they are. I've worn mine when it has been down-right cold and when it has been milder (around 70). But, it's probably not a great idea to wear them when they are hot and humid.
How should I wear them?
It sort of depends on the cut and type of leather.
The most popular style is the 5-pocket (jeans-like). I think most people would suggest something like a nice t-shirt or something simple up top. Maybe a button-down. I lke to wear a shirt untucked with these. You could also wear a sweater.
I think a button down or a sweater may look better with the plain front (which are often the softer lambskin) style. The plain-front style are my favorite because I think they look a touch classier. I have a simple silk shirt (no the shiny kind) that looks great. I would tuck in any shirt with these pants.
Most advice givers say be careful about wearing too much leather. Of course, leather boots or shoes are appropriate. Same with a belt. But, for guys at least, a leather coat may be too much. I have a hard time figuring out a coat to wear with mine. I say keep it simple. Wool may work. Or see if you can get buy without wearing any coat.
Where can I get them?
I make some suggestions elsewhere on this website. There are leather stores, of course. The ubiquitous Wilson's is an obvious choice. Not sure about the quality. I also get a bit creeped out by the staff at these stores. There are plenty of choices online. I have bought both of mine at the mall. Not many major stores carry them, unless they are in bigger markets. If they do carry them, their website are a great place to look. And they can have some great bargains. This is also a good way to get around the embarassment of buying them.
How do I take care of them?
I recently conditioned both of mine and it made a world of difference. I just bought the conditioner from Wilson's and used that. I was going to use Lexoil, but then I read that it said it wasn't good for "glove-soft" leather.
Other advice
Leatherforums.com is back up and running. You'll find a lot of like minded people there. You are not alone.
Closing thoughts:
I really love my leather pants. Do I wear them everywhere? No. Do I feel comfortable wearing them around many of my friends? Not yet. But, that's okay. I am getting there. I mean, why fight something that feels so right? And, trust me, the feeling of leather is great. I am not convinced that every guy looks great in leather. I know I have seen some cases of women wearing the wrong kind of leather pants, but I just love the look on women. I think men can join in some of the fun, too.
Oh, and I love hearing good comments. Send me an email.
Sincerely,
"Guy N Leather"
A common question for the straight guy (which is the perspective I know). I think the answer is maybe. A lot of people say, "So what." And, I agree. I think the key is do you look good and feel good about yourself when wearing them? Being confident in your leather pants is probably the key here. I know of plenty of people who get many positive comments (from guys and girls) on their pants. Yes, you may get taunted (hasn't happened to me yet), but this might be that they are a bit jealous/lack the confidence to wear them. (Think about how silent you are/were about leather pants).
Other advice
Leatherforums.com is back online. They have some new rules and guidelines. Might be a little frusrating. Uou can also share some of your thoughts with me, and I'll see if I can share them with others.