[RPG] Can you benefit from the Defense fighting style while not using armor AC calculation

armor-classdnd-5efighting-stylelizardfolkracial-traits

Let's assume a Lizardfolk fighter, with the Defense fighting style, wearing leather armor. Lizardfolk, per Volo's p. 113, get Natural Armor:

You have tough, scaly skin. When you aren't wearing armor, your AC is 13 + your Dexterity modifier. You can use your natural armor to determine your AC if the armor you wear would leave you with a lower AC. A shield's benefits apply as normal while you use your natural armor.

Emphasis mine. Leather armor gives a DC of 11+Dex but, according to the above rule, I am allowed to use my superior Natural Armor DC of 13+Dex (this is different from mage armor and Draconic Resilience and which I almost asked about, but they specifically disallow wearing armor).

Now, at the same time, I'm wearing armor, which should qualify me for my chosen Fighting Style, Defense (PHB p. 72):

Defense: While you are wearing armor, you gain a +1 bonus to AC.

Emphasis, again, mine – it doesn't say anything about actually using the armor's AC.

Could I combine the two to claim an AC of 14+Dex?

Best Answer

Yes you could

The defense fighting style, as you mentioned, states

While you are wearing armor, you gain a +1 bonus to AC

The condition of wearing armor is satisfied, as you are indeed wearing leather armor. Additionally, Defense states exactly "+1 Bonus to AC" no ambiguity there.

Your character, although having a thick hide, can benefit from it's fighting style and use his armor better than most, therefore granting him the bonus. It is not a magical effect from the armor, it's a fighting style your character has.

Your character is the one gaining AC from Defense, not your armor!