Not Sold on Stovepipe Jeans? Here Are 5 Elegant Ways to Wear Leggings in 2026
Who'd have thought leggings outfits would be so chic in 2026? Scroll down for some fresh inspo.
As a fashion editor who believes that comfort and style can coexist, leggings outfits are a staple in my capsule wardrobe. Why, you ask? Well, they’re simply way too comfortable to give up. Despite my fondness for stovepipe jeans or tailored trousers, there's honestly nothing quite like slipping into an easy pair of leggings, and according to the fashion crowd in 2026, they've never been chicer.
Although leggings might once have been considered too casual to wear outside of the gym or your yoga class (or if you're Jil Sander, who, in 2011, declared, "If I had the power, I would ban leggings"), gone are the days when the only options were kaleidoscopic colours and loud patterns. Modern leggings are less Lisa Rinna and Jane Fonda during their VHS-tape '80s aerobics-workout eras, and more minimalist staple.
As fashion is cyclical and nothing really goes out of style for good, leggings outfits have fast become a permanent fixture of the most fashionable rotations. Loved for their effortlessness whilst simultaneously providing instant polish, editors, influencers and celebs alike have proven over the past few years that with the right styling, leggings can look incredibly chic—and even elegant. From Hailey Bieber championing the stirrup to Simone Ashley's cropped capris (and of course, Claudia Winkleman's full-length Spanx), an outfit featuring leggings has never been so cool.
For spring/summer 2026, designers are championing the return of leggings, and the runways were awash with every shape, style and print imaginable. From a soft cream pair akin to slim-leg tailored trousers paired with square-toe loafers at Dior, to a striped iteration worn with an embroidered polo and finished with on-trend Ugg Zora flats at Talia Byre, designers are proving that even simple jersey basics have the ability to elevate. So, with spring just around the corner, light and easy leggings outfits couldn’t be more timely.
After a deep dive into my social media feeds, I’ve found five looks that feel perfect for the season ahead. Keep scrolling to discover them below.
1. Capri Leggings + Leather Jacket + V-Neck Jumper
Style Notes: As we head slowly but surely into spring, why not give capris a go? With a nostalgic ‘90s feel, this cropped silhouette is adored by Gen Z. Adding kitten heels for a typically French flair, Anne Laure Mais offsets her capris with a light V-neck jumper and slim-cut leather jacket.
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You'd get so much wear out of this.
A timeless classic.
I can't believe how affordable this on-trend V-neck is!
I've worn these Reformation capris every spring for the past few years.
These Le Monde Béryl heeled pumps have jumped to the top of my wish list.
2. Ankle-Length Leggings + Cropped Jacket + Heels
Style Notes: There will always be a time and a place for full-length leggings, but 7/8 styles have fast become the go-to for fashion people. Just take Marilyn NK’s look, for example. Keeping her base neutral and finishing with a funnel-neck jacket, she upgrades her slightly shorter leggings with elevated accessories like a pillbox hat and top-handle bag. This outfit has all the hallmarks of making it onto a 2026 best-dressed list.
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Marilyn's exact jacket, courtesy of The Frankie Shop.
Trust me: Sisterly Tribe leggings are some of the most comfortable around.
I'd always advise sizing up in Reformation shoes, as they tend to fit a tad narrow.
With an internal divide, flap pocket and sculptural hardware to finish, if you're after a luxury bag you won't see everyone else carrying, look no further than Tory Burch's Eleanor Satchel.
Very Clueless.
3. Stirrup Leggings + Trench Coat + Jumper
Style Notes: If there's one item that can always elevate leggings, it's pointed-toe ballet flats. Instead of sporty trainers, they give the relaxed piece some extra polish, and Coco Schiffer’s loose jumper and sweeping trench look undeniably chic when finished with stirrup leggings and a throw-everything-in-and-go bag.
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You'll pull out this COS maxi coat year after year.
So many Who What Wear UK editors rave about the high quality of Rise & Fall cashmere jumpers.
These Skims stirrup leggings are super popularity.
All the comfort of a flat paired with the polish of a pointed toe.
This will even fit your laptop.
4. Full-Length Leggings + Trainers + Funnel-Neck Jacket
Style Notes: Leggings and trainers are like florals in spring: a fail-safe that never dates. Where chunkier iterations can leave your outfit feeling a little clunky, an on-trend slimline pair will shift your look into 2026’s current mood. Throw in a pop of colour through your socks and finish with an in-demand funnel-neck jacket for an easy-breezy daytime look.
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This Róhe jacket has been everywhere this winter.
The Gucci Horsebit shoulder bag is totally timeless.
I recently did an Alo Yoga try-on, and I was surprised by how comfortable the Softsculpt collection is.
I'm a big fan of anything Adidas Originals x Wales Bonner, and these satin trainers have jumped to the top of my wish list.
Red socks are a great way to infuse your look with a pop of colour.
5. Flared Leggings + Kitten Heels + Strapless Top
Style Notes: Take your leggings down a less obvious path by playing with colours, cuts and silhouettes. As the ultimate blank canvas, leggings allow you to experiment with unexpected styling. Take this leopard-print and strappy-kitten-heels look, which is perfect for a warm spring day or a dressier evening.
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I'll be swapping Emili Sindlev's bandeau top (pictured above) for an elevated sheer option instead.
Available in regular, petite and long lengths, if you like your leggings flared, look no further than Lululemon.
Haven't you heard? Strappy high heels are on their way back!
A headband is not only a functional accessory but also very chic.
If you're a mixed-metal lover like me, you need to check out Astrid & Miyu's new drop.
