If I’m honest, I’ve never really been into leggings. Although, you would think I’m lying if you see how many activewear styles I have, sat there ready and waiting in case I ever set foot in the gym I pay monthly for. But when it comes to leggings to wear as part of a daily uniform, I’ve always avoided them. Until now, that is. And it’s all thanks to recent outfit inspo on Instagram.
While it’s tricky to find a pair that doesn’t bag at the knees and sag at the crotch, so many brands – including Commando, Spanx and Totême – have nailed it with well-fitting styles. It’s all about getting the right thickness, too. Unlike opaque tights, you don’t want them to be sheer as this is what can make them look cheap and scruffy. Instead, thicker (more luxe) materials with details such as stirrups, split hems and a second-skin fit is what to look for.
Sure, it’s easy to wear leggings off-duty with an oversized sweatshirt and trainers, but as someone who is often overdressed, I’m all for the looks that make leggings actually look chic. From wearing with a midi skirt to teaming with knee-high boots and a blazer, here are 6 outfits that have unintentionally persuaded me to wear leggings.
Style Notes: My mum definitely wore them in the ’80s with court heels, and now stirrup leggings are back. Tanice shows how to make them feel fresh with cool kicks and a bold knit. And I’m completely sold.
Style Notes: As a big fan of Janka’s fun looks, I appreciate this from top-to-toe. While leggings are the simple base to this whole outfit, it’s all about keeping the rest of the vibe big, bold and cosy.
Style Notes: While most people swerve away from grey sweat-showing leggings for working out, they totally work for day. The more layers the merrier for winter and Linne makes a strong case for a knit skirt over her pair.
Style Notes: If in doubt, keep it simple. An oversized crisp white shirt is the perfect companion to a pair of leggings. And this split-front style is the attention-to-detail iteration that minimalists swear by.
Style Notes: I’ve seen so many people wearing knee-high boots over leggings or skinny jeans again. A glossy pair of rider boots with a wool blazer, à la Anouk, is always a good idea.
Style Notes: Marilyn styles the sell-out Frankie Shop quilted jacket (you know the one), with a classic pair of leggings and clogs. While I’m not sure about clogs for myself, this outfit certainly makes me want to go wild and try them out, too.
