Let’s admit it—we’ve probably spent the majority of our December in clothes that have not only kept us warm, but that likely also have featured an elasticated waistband. If not that, then we’ve been dipping our toe in the other end of the wardrobe spectrum by opting for sequins, sparkle, and embellishment. And whichever camp you’ve fallen in over the last few weeks (maybe it’s a healthy mix of both?), there’s probably only one thing on your mind when it comes to January dressing, and that’s comfort.
But what if we told you there’s a way to be both comfortable and chic at the same time? Like florals for spring, but even more groundbreaking? A miraculous thought! Enter leggings. Long gone are the days that leggings were confined to the gym or for lounging about on the sofa (albeit we’ll give you a pass to wear them on either of those occasions, too!). A new legging era has dawned, and we are here for it.
Wave goodbye to your lazy girl dressing and please give a warm welcome to our step-by-step guide on how to elevate your leggings for every possible occasion—from coffee runs and dinner dates to weekend errands and work meetings.
Like what you hear? Scroll on to discover how to turn those basic leggings into outfits even the coolest of girls will envy. Sofa lounging and overly consistent watching of Netflix is still absolutely encouraged, of course.
Style Notes: Opting for a patterned legging will elevate your look to make it appear more styled. Extra points for matching your shoes and bag to help tie the whole outfit together.
Cosy and chic all in one? Count us in.
Whether you dress them up or dress them down, these will add a sleek element to any casual look.
Work bag, gym bag, weekend bag—the opportunities are endless.
We’ll be living in these for the foreseeable future.
Style Notes: Leggings can be styled for both day and night. Just pair them with a kitten heel and blazer or smart jacket and you’re good to go. Top tip, make like @hannahlewisstylist and have something that’ll cinch in your waist to define your shape if you’re choosing a baggier fit jacket.
A belated Christmas present maybe? We love the belt detailing.
These wool-blend leggings are a staple, must-have item that you can wear again and again.
Lust list level 3000.
Style Notes: The bolder, the better! What better way to brighten up your grey day than to dress in bright, vivid colour like Bettina? Add trainers, a tee, and a denim jacket for extra comfort.
H&M have the best selection of graphic tees.
We’ll be styling this with a cute mini dress in the summer, too.
Vivid blue leggings? Yes, please.
Fact: Fashion girls love New Balance, and so do we.
Style Notes: By adding the small details like the padded brown gilet, gold hoops and knee high boots @iamdodos has created the sleek legging curated look of dreams.
A great wardrobe staple.
Layering elements are SO in this winter.
A knee high boot for under £100? Sold.
Style Notes: To me, this look defines timeless dressing. Why, you ask? Layering the classic Breton sweater and a camel blazer with that iconic bag, in contrast to the not-so-serious Converse, makes the whole look utter perfection. It’s giving cool French girl for sure.
Stripes are often the most versatile piece in anyone’s wardrobe. Wear with leggings or denim, or layer it over your shoulders with a dress.
I will be wearing this blazer all through the year.
Dress these down with trainers or up with heels; The front slit element is super cool.
Converse go with so many outfits, year round. Leggings, dresses, jeans, wide-leg trousers, you name it.
Style Notes: We’re loving the way @rosiehw mixes textures to elevate a basic pair of black leggings. A leather jacket + suede boots = a match made in heaven.
The deep burgundy red makes this a real forever piece. Wear with black, grey, white, navy, camel… Need I go on?
The MOST comfortable leggings, take my word for it.
She’s an icon, she’s a legend, she is the moment.
Style Notes: In case you were wondering how to dress your leggings up for a night out, this is exactly how you do it. Add a pop of colour with an oversized blazer to make the outfit even more dynamic.
The perfect LBT (little black top).
The stirrup adds a nice detail.
This winter it’s all about dressing to brighten your own day.
An amazing black belt is versatile piece you’ll have forever.
Now this is a pair of staple heels you’ll love forever.
