Leggings have become a staple in almost every woman’s wardrobe, loved for their comfort, versatility, and ease of wear. Yet, despite their popularity, they often get a bad rap for being too casual or even inappropriate for certain occasions. If you’ve ever wondered how to elevate your leggings game and make them look fashionable and classy, you’re not alone. The good news is that, with the right styling, leggings can easily transition from a basic piece of clothing to a chic and polished outfit that suits various occasions.
This year, leggings are more popular than ever, making appearances in both street style and high fashion. But the key to pulling them off lies in how you wear them. Whether you’re running errands, heading to the office, or going out for a night on the town, leggings can be your go-to garment if styled correctly. Read on to discover practical and easy-to-follow ways to wear leggings that will keep you looking stylish and put-together all year long.
10 Ways to Wear Leggings—Practical and Easy-to-Follow
1. Choose the Right Fabric and Fit
The first step in making leggings look classy is choosing the right fabric and fit. Leggings come in a variety of materials, from cotton and polyester blends to faux leather and velvet. For a polished look, opt for high-quality fabrics that provide structure and aren’t see-through. Thicker materials, like ponte or faux leather, give leggings a more formal appearance, while still being comfortable.
Key Tips:
- Avoid Shiny Fabrics: Shiny materials can make leggings look cheap and are often difficult to style for a classy look.
- Check the Opacity: Always do a squat test to ensure your leggings are not see-through. High-quality leggings will maintain their opacity even when stretched.
- Pick the Right Fit: Leggings should fit snugly but not too tight. Look for leggings with a high waistband to smooth and support your silhouette.
2. Pair with Longer Tops
One of the easiest ways to make leggings look sophisticated is by pairing them with longer tops. Tunics, oversized sweaters, and long shirts are excellent choices because they provide coverage and balance out the tight fit of leggings. The key is to ensure that your top covers your hips and rear, which not only makes the outfit more appropriate for different settings but also adds an element of modesty and sophistication.
Key Tips:
- Opt for Asymmetrical Hemlines: Asymmetrical or high-low hemlines add interest and can elongate your figure.
- Layering Works Wonders: Consider layering a blazer or long cardigan over your top for a more refined look.
- Belt It Up: If your top is loose, add a belt at the waist to define your figure and add structure to the outfit.
3. Elevate Your Look with Footwear
Footwear plays a significant role in how leggings are perceived. The right shoes can instantly transform leggings from casual to chic. Ankle boots, knee-high boots, and pointed-toe flats are all excellent choices for creating a polished appearance.
Key Tips:
- Avoid Flip-Flops or Athletic Sneakers: These shoes can make leggings look too casual and are best avoided if you’re aiming for a classy outfit.
- Heeled Boots for the Win: Heeled boots add height and sophistication to your look, making your legs appear longer.
- Experiment with Loafers: Loafers or slip-on shoes are stylish alternatives that offer comfort without compromising on style.
4. Add Layers and Outerwear
Layering is an easy way to add depth and dimension to your outfit, instantly making leggings look more sophisticated. Adding a tailored blazer, long coat, or a structured jacket can elevate the look of leggings. Outerwear not only adds warmth but also creates a polished silhouette.
Key Tips:
- Blazers for Business Casual: Pairing leggings with a tailored blazer can create a business-casual look that is both comfortable and stylish.
- Long Coats for Elegance: A long, structured coat can add a touch of elegance to leggings, especially during the colder months.
- Denim Jackets for a Casual-Chic Vibe: For a more relaxed look, a fitted denim jacket over a long top can work wonders.
5. Accessorize Thoughtfully
Accessories are the finishing touches that can make or break an outfit. To make leggings look fashionable and classy, choose accessories that complement the outfit without overwhelming it. Think statement necklaces, structured handbags, and sleek belts.
Key Tips:
- Keep It Simple: Over-accessorizing can make your outfit look cluttered. Stick to one or two key pieces.
- Structured Handbags Over Slouchy Bags: A structured handbag adds a sense of sophistication to your overall look.
- Minimalist Jewelry: Opt for minimalist jewelry like stud earrings or a delicate necklace to keep the focus on your outfit.
6. Go Monochrome for a Sleek Look
A monochromatic outfit, where all pieces are the same color or shades of the same color, is a simple yet effective way to make leggings look more sophisticated. Black is always a safe choice, but don’t shy away from other neutral tones like grey, navy, or beige. Monochrome outfits elongate the body and create a streamlined look that is effortlessly chic.
Key Tips:
- Experiment with Textures: If you’re wearing a monochromatic outfit, mix different textures (like a knit sweater with faux leather leggings) to add interest.
- Consider Earthy Tones: Earthy tones like olive, camel, and taupe can look just as sleek as black, while also adding warmth to your outfit.
- Break It Up with Accessories: If a fully monochromatic look feels too flat, break it up with accessories in complementary colors.
7. Dress Up with a Statement Coat
A statement coat can be the focal point of your outfit, taking the attention away from the leggings and directing it to the coat. Whether it’s a bold color, a unique pattern, or an interesting texture, a statement coat can elevate even the simplest pair of leggings.
Key Tips:
- Bold Colors and Prints: Don’t be afraid to go for bold colors or prints if the rest of your outfit is neutral.
- Consider a Belted Coat: A belted coat can add shape and definition to your silhouette.
- Length Matters: A knee-length or longer coat will generally look more sophisticated with leggings than a shorter one.
8. Choose Tailored Leggings
Tailored leggings, often referred to as “pants-like” leggings, have become increasingly popular. These are designed to look like trousers, with details such as zippers, pockets, and seams that make them suitable for more formal occasions. They offer the comfort of leggings while providing the structure of pants, making them a perfect choice for work or a night out.
Key Tips:
- Look for Dressy Details: Details like faux zippers, pintucks, or a side stripe can add a formal touch.
- Pair with a Blouse: A crisp blouse tucked into tailored leggings can create a chic, office-ready look.
- Stick to Neutral Colors: Tailored leggings in black, navy, or grey are versatile and can be styled in many different ways.
9. Embrace Athleisure for a Casual Look
Athleisure, the trend of wearing athletic clothing in non-athletic settings, has been going strong for a few years and shows no signs of slowing down. While athleisure is inherently casual, you can still look stylish by pairing your leggings with sporty yet fashionable pieces.
Key Tips:
- Invest in Quality Activewear: High-quality activewear brands offer leggings with interesting details like mesh panels or color blocking that can make your outfit stand out.
- Mix with Streetwear: Pair your leggings with a bomber jacket or an oversized hoodie for a laid-back yet trendy look.
- Finish with Sleek Sneakers: Sleek, minimalist sneakers can pull your athleisure look together, making it look intentional and put-together.
10. Experiment with Patterns and Prints
While solid-colored leggings are classic, don’t shy away from patterns and prints. Printed leggings can add a fun and playful element to your outfit. The key is to keep the rest of your outfit simple to avoid looking too busy.
Key Tips:
- Choose Subtle Patterns: If you’re new to printed leggings, start with subtle patterns like pinstripes or small polka dots.
- Solid Top, Printed Bottom: Balance printed leggings with a solid-colored top to keep the outfit from becoming overwhelming.
- Monochrome Prints: Monochrome prints in neutral colors can add interest without being too bold.
What are the best pairs of leggings available?
The Lululemon Align Pant, made from buttery soft Nulu fabric, is a top choice for everyday wear and light workouts. Priced around $98, it features a high-waisted, full-length design that offers both comfort and style. If you’re looking to dress up or achieve a chic casual look, consider the Spanx Faux Leather Leggings. These leggings, priced around $98, feature a high-rise waistband and a sleek faux leather finish, perfect for a sophisticated touch.
For a budget-friendly option, the Nike Sportswear Essential Leggings are a great pick. These cotton blend leggings are priced at approximately $40 and offer a stretchy, high-waist design ideal for casual outings and athleisure. The Alo Yoga Airlift Legging, at around $118, is designed with sculpting Airlift fabric, providing a high-waisted, full-length fit perfect for yoga and stylish comfort.
Another excellent choice is the Athleta Salutation Stash Pocket II Tight. Priced at about $89, these leggings are made from Powervita fabric, offering softness and stretch, along with hidden pockets for added convenience. For elevated casual wear or evening outings, the Commando Faux Leather Leggings are a sophisticated option, priced around $108, featuring a smooth faux leather finish and a high-rise fit.
For high-intensity workouts, the Sweaty Betty Power Leggings are ideal. These technical fabric leggings, priced at approximately $115, include sweat-wicking properties and zip pockets, making them both functional and stylish. The Zella Live In High Waist Leggings, costing around $59, offer a soft, stretchy fabric with tummy control, suitable for daily wear and light exercise.
For those seeking a budget-friendly daily wear option, the Boohoo Black High-Waist Leggings are priced at about $20. Made from a stretchy polyester blend, they feature a simple, high-waist design that’s versatile for various outfits. Finally, the Free People Movement High Rise Leggings, priced at around $78, provide a soft, stretchy blend for a comfortable fit, ideal for yoga, workouts, and casual wear.
Each of these leggings offers unique features to cater to different style preferences and needs, ensuring that you can find the perfect pair for any occasion.
The Art of Styling Leggings
Leggings are one of the most versatile pieces in any wardrobe, but they can easily go wrong if not styled properly. The secret to making leggings look fashionable and classy lies in how you pair them with other pieces, from tops to shoes to accessories. By following these tips and experimenting with different styles, you can turn this comfortable staple into a key part of your stylish, polished outfits.
Remember, the key to pulling off leggings in a classy way is to focus on balance, structure, and thoughtful layering. With the right approach, leggings can be appropriate for almost any occasion, whether you’re dressing up for work, going out for dinner, or simply running errands. Confidence in your outfit choices will also play a big role—when you feel good in what you’re wearing, it shows. So, go ahead and experiment with these ways to wear leggings, and make them your own!
