What to wear with leggings
Wondering how to style your leggings? What seemed unthinkable a few years ago has become a universal wardrobe staple. Leggings are much more than just sportswear. There are many ways to style them to look chic for everyday activities. These figure-hugging, stretchy pants give you plenty of room to move about in and are ultra comfortable. You can create stylish outfits with leggings for almost any occasion by pairing them with the right tops, accessories and shoes. We'll show you everything you need to know about creating chic leggings outfits.
How to style leggings: which types of leggings are there?
Leggings are versatile for creating different outfits and come in various materials, designs, and cuts. You can choose from various styles of leggings to look fashionable for almost any occasion and express your personal style.
Classic leggings
Classic leggings are usually made of cotton or blended fabrics. Elastane ensures that the leggings hug your figure while still allowing you to move about freely. They are perfect for everyday wear or sporty looks. Classic leggings often come in neutral colours such as black, grey or dark blue and can be paired in a variety of ways.
Treggings
Treggings combine the advantages of leggings with the appearance of classic trousers. They are made from more robust fabric and have details such as seams, buttons and zips. These elevated design details mean that treggings can even be styled elegantly or for the office. Paired with blazers, long blouses or tunics, treggings are a great option for business-casual outfits.
Jeggings
Jeggings are a cross between jeans and leggings. They have a timeless denim look but are just as comfortable as classic leggings thanks to a high percentage of elasticated fibres. They often have details such as pockets or belt loops, which makes them look even more like real jeans. Jeggings go with almost everything. You can pair them with T-shirts and trainers for casual everyday looks or with smart blouses and loafers for casual office outfits.
Colourful & printed leggings
Leggings with prints add variety to your wardrobe. Whether florals, geometric patterns or animal prints, they will make you stand out and give simple outfits that special something. To prevent your outfit from looking over the top, pair printed leggings with plain and simple tops.
Sports leggings
Sports leggings are made from breathable, elasticated materials and offer additional support thanks to a high, wide waistband. Many models also have practical details such as side pockets or reflective stripes. Sports leggings can also be worn outside the gym. You can create a sporty, casual athleisure look by pairing your leggings with a casual sweatshirt and trainers.
Flared leggings
Flared leggings are an updated version of classic leggings and have a slightly flared leg. They give off a subtle retro charm and create balanced proportions. To emphasise their elongating effect, you can pair them with figure-hugging tops or cropped jackets.
Leather leggings
(Faux-)leather leggings look sophisticated but can also give outfits a glam-rock feel. This type of legging is available in different styles, from soft suede to shiny, smooth leather. In most cases, a stretchy imitation leather is used for this style. Paired with a long blouse, an oversized blazer or a cosy knitted jumper, you can create an elegant outfit with leggings that works for both evening and everyday wear.
Outfits with leggings for any occasion and style
Wondering how to you style leggings elegantly? Don’t think you can wear leggings to the office? Leggings persuade with their comfort and versatility. However, to create appropriate outfits for different occasions, you should bear a few general rules in mind. We'll show you which leggings are suitable for different occasions and how to make a chic fashion statement.
Casual outfits with leggings
Classic leggings are ideal for lazy days. Paired with an oversized jumper or a long cardigan, you can create a cosy yet modern outfit with leggings. Trainers or flat boots will complement this look beautifully.
Jeggings, on the other hand, are a slightly more robust alternative for everyday outfits. They offer you a classic denim look but are just as comfortable as classic leggings thanks to their elasticated materials. They go particularly well with trainers, T-shirts and a casual leather jacket.
For winter outfits, lined thermal leggings are a great choice. Pair them with chunky knit jumpers and boots and you'll be perfectly styled even on cold days without having to sacrifice comfort.
Dressy leggings outfits
For evening events that don’t have a strict dress code, you can style leggings to look elegant. Opt for styles made from high-quality materials and pair your outfit with a chic top and matching shoes. The following leggings are particularly suitable for elegant outfits:
(Faux-)leather leggings look more elegant than cotton styles. Paired with an elegant blouse, a fitted blazer and pumps, they create a chic look that is also suitable for evening events.
High-waisted leggings are particularly flattering and are a popular choice if you want to style leggings elegantly. Cropped tops made of fine materials or blouses tucked into your waistband will emphasise your waist even more. Your outfit will look particularly chic with a long coat and pumps.
In many cases, treggings are the more elegant alternative to classic leggings. This chic version of leggings has details such as belt loops and pockets. Paired with a long blazer or a fine knit jumper, you can create a stylish outfit with your leggings.
Leggings outfits for work: can I wear leggings to the office?
Do you want to wear leggings to work? In combination with the right tops and shoes, you can style leggings for the office. However, first check that your company's dress code allows it. In casual office environments or in positions without direct customer contact, leggings can work well in the office as long as they are paired with more formal items such as blazers, smart shoes and elegant tops.
Treggings are the best choice for office outfits as they look like classic trousers but offer the comfort of leggings. Combined with a longer blouse, an elegant blazer and loafers, you can effortlessly style a business-casual outfit.
Jeggings in dark washes without bold seams or destroyed details look sophisticated and are suitable for offices with casual or smart-casual dress codes. With a tunic, cardigan and loafers, you can create a comfortable but smart look.
In conservative industries with a strict formal business dress code (e.g. banks, insurance companies or law firms), leggings are generally inappropriate. This dress code requires classic trouser suits with smart trousers, business dresses or suits. Even treggings or jeggings are perceived as too casual in these environments.
Important: Even in workplaces with a casual dress code, make sure that your leggings are not transparent. Long tops that cover at least your hips will make your outfit look more professional.
How to style leggings: tips for chic leggings outfits
To make your outfits with leggings look balanced, there are a few basic styling rules you can follow:
1. Opt for high-quality materials: leggings that are too thin tend to show through on certain parts of your body or when you move. High-quality fabrics that are elasticated and don’t show through not only provide more comfort but are also more suitable for everyday wear.
2. Pay attention to the right length: leggings should not be too short or too long. Ankle-length styles look particularly flattering and are easy to pair. Capri leggings are more suitable for summer or sporty looks.
3. Choose tops carefully: long blouses, oversized jumpers or knitted jumpers pair particularly well with leggings. On the other hand, cropped, tight-fitting tops work well if you want to keep your outfit sporty or casual. For office wear and more elegant outfits with leggings, you should make sure that your top is long enough to cover your hips and buttocks.
4. Create a balanced silhouette: as leggings are always figure-hugging, the best way to accentuate them is to pair them with oversized or loose-fitting tops. This allows you to create a balanced outfit that is neither too tight nor too casual. Leggings with a high waistband will also emphasise your waist. You can further highlight our waist by pairing your leggings with a crop top or a short top. Alternatively, pair your leggings with long tops and cardigans to draw attention away from your waist area.
5. Choose suitable shoes: the shoes you wear with leggings will have a major influence on your look. Trainers create a sporty look, while loafers or ankle boots look chic and are suitable for everyday wear. Pumps or sleek flat shoes such as ballerinas or loafers are more suitable for elegant outfits.
Conclusion: easy leggings outfits for every occasion
Leggings have long been more than just a basic for the gym or loungewear. They have become a real fashion all-rounder. Offering a great basis for individual and comfortable styles, you can style them to suit a wide variety of occasions. However, it is important to opt for a good cut and high-quality materials and to pair them with the right tops and shoes to ensure you look well-dressed.