I Own $400 Leggings, But This Under-$40 Pair Looks and Feels More Expensive
Just when I thought I couldn't possibly need—or want—another pair of leggings, along comes one that pulls me in like a moth to a flame. I was sitting at my desk, minding my own business, when a colleague asked if I'd be interested in helping her test out leggings for an article. Without hesitation, I said yes. Why not? A few days later, I was handed Zella's Live In High Waist Leggings, and little did I know, they were about to become my all-time favorite pair.
These leggings are a mix of style and performance. You can wear them with a sports bra for yoga or pair them with a cozy sweater for brunch. It might sound dramatic, but these leggings look and feel even more luxurious than my $400 pair. (Yes, I know it's wild to learn leggings could cost that much.) The texture is buttery soft, making you feel like you're wearing silk pants, and the thick waistband cinches your waist just right without digging in. The material is the perfect balance—not too thick or too thin—and the seaming works some kind of magic to smooth and elongate your legs, giving them a seriously elegant look. Honestly, I didn't know my legs could look this good until I slipped these on.
While the Live In High Waist style is my favorite, I've also tried the Studio Luxe High Waist Pocket Leggings. They have the same fit and feel but add a convenient pocket on each leg for storing keys and a phone when on the run. That's not all. Zella offers more styles, including maternity, plus-size, flare-leg, and fleece-lined options, so there's something for everyone.
The best part? These leggings are currently up to 40% off at Nordstrom, which means it's time to stock up. If you want to join me, keep scrolling to shop the best leggings you'll ever wear. Thank me later.
Shop the Zella Live In High Waist Leggings:
Shop more Zella leggings:
Nikki Chwatt is an associate fashion editor based in New York City. She joined Who What Wear in 2024 after writing fashion, beauty, and lifestyle content for WWD, Well+Good, Editorialist, and more. With a passion for personal style and the creativity that comes with it, one of Chwatt's goals is to help others understand that there is no such thing as a “good” or “bad” style; it’s just about putting an outfit together that makes you feel confident in yourself. When she's not writing, you can find her taking a Pilates class, reading a powerful romance novel, or exploring a new wellness spot in Manhattan.
-
Stop It Right Now—These 39 Under-$100 Nordstrom Finds Are Incredibly Gorgeous
Kitten heels, lacy skirts, and a new It sneaker.
-
If I Could Only Wear Nordstrom Pieces This Month, These 35 Standouts Would Be Top of Mind
Summer dressing made easy.
-
The Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Is an Editor Favorite—Here's What's on Preview so Far
Early access starts July 8.
-
I'm a Shopping Director —These Under $100 Nordstrom Finds Are Too Good Not to Share
From linen pants to jelly shoes.
-
The 2 Tank Top Trends That Make Every Outfit Look Peak 2025
It's all in the details—er, necklines.
-
Let Me Cure Your Zara Fatigue One Chic Massimo Dutti Find at a Time
From summer-sale deals to brand-new arrivals.
-
I'm a Shopping Editor—These 31 Under-$50 Amazon Finds Are Giving Main Character Energy
These were really hard not to gatekeep.
-
I Shop for a Living, and These Are the 15 Pretty Nordstrom Fashion and Beauty Finds in My Cart RN
Lace-trim skirts, shimmery eye shadows, and more.