While it's basically expected that key categories in our closets will ebb and flow—like everyone suddenly wearing slim sneakers instead of chunky styles, for instance—there are still certain basics that are so foundational that it feels like they couldn't possibly be subject to the whims of the trend cycle. Leggings are firmly one of them. Or so we thought. In August, the Wall Street Journal heralded the death of leggings when they published an article declaring that for Gen Z, classic leggings are ceding ground to Big Workout Pant. And they weren't wrong. All around us, we've been spotting the return of track pants, from the 2026 runways to the off-duty outfits of celebs like Jennifer Lawrence and Ayo Edebiri.
While I won't personally claim that leggings are dead (this Millennial editor still prefers them for workouts), I'll admit that larger and looser sporty pants are quickly becoming the new go-to option for coffee runs, weekend looks, and travel days. In almost every instance where they'd normally wear leggings, fashion people are increasingly choosing a pair of cool track pants, styling them with sneakers, clogs, and ballet flats. And with designers like Tory Burch, Donni, and Tibi putting an elevated spin on the pants, there's never been more chic options to choose from.
Leggings, who? Ahead, see how fashion people are wearing track pants in all their casual-cool outfits and shop the best pairs, from Tory to Zara.
I haven't stopped thinking about these Tory Burch pants since I saw them on the runway last spring.
Take notes from the model: the low-key cool way to style them is with a tee and V-neck sweater.
Iconic indeed.
Donni's silk styles are a fashion-insider favorite (and consequently rarely ever in stock).
Perfect shoe pairing.
Peep the ankle slit here.
I'm into this dressed-up styling.
Am I crazy or could you style these with an oversize button-down for the office?
Who What Wear editor Anneliese Henderson is a fan of this extremely well-priced Old Navy pair.
Skipping the matching jacket would be a fashion crime.
Of course, Tibi's pair is both easy yet elevated.
The thick stripe feels especially fresh.
Ever since the news about Grace Wales Bonner's appointment as menswear designer at Hermès, pieces from her namesake label have soared in status.
Calling all Sandy girls!
This color combo is doing it for me.
So sleek.
Imagine these with a pair of Speedcat sneakers.
And they're cashmere? Say less.
I love the retro feel here.
The navy and maroon combo is perfect.
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