I distinctly remember when leggings started to pop up everywhere. I was dying to wear a pair of my own but felt self-conscious bringing attention to my muscular calves. While out shopping, I would longingly watch when I happened to spot someone wearing classic black leggings usually with an oversized sweater and newly trending ballet flats. This was a rare sighting at the time, so I'd always point out the look to my then-boyfriend or to my best friend. Fast forward to today and you wouldn't be able to keep count of the number of people in leggings you spot in a day. Much to my surprise, I, too, now live in the ubiquitous pant style.
Maternity leggings were my official breakthrough. It wasn't until I was pregnant with my first child that my self-consciousness over my legs eased and I slipped on a pair of comfortable, high-waisted leggings. That was over 4 years ago, but after I had another baby, I have never looked back. I can't help it—the pant style is not at all restricting when dealing with two little ones, plus it makes dressing super easy due to their versatility.
The styles I wear the most can be broken down into four categories: for lounging, for elevated affairs, for everyday, and for working out. Each group has varying characteristics from fabric options to the fit, the colors, and ankle styles. Ahead, see both how to style each category and where to shop my top picks for each.
1. For Lounging
There is nothing like a comfy legging with stretch for lounging around the house. A basic pair is super easy to pair with everything from your favorite T-shirt to your favorite knit or hoodie.
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Here's one review that caught my eye: " I love these leggings! They are so comfortable. They are ribbed and not see through."
This cozy pair is under $25, but I would totally believe you if you told me they were from a luxe designer brand.
These have three things going for them: ribbed details, the faded black color, and the chic ankle slits.
Everyone seems to be raving about this Skims style recently. They are great for home and come in over 10 colors.
I find it so nice to wear elevated loungewear at home, and this Pima cotton pair fits the bill perfectly.
Thermal-style leggings always give me a nostalgic feeling for all the snow days I had growing up in New England.
2. For Elevated Affairs
Tanice Elizabeth gave her ankle-slit leggings the fashion-girl treatment with the help of a statement blazer, sleek black bag, and strappy sandals. The blazer options are endless making this a super easy look to pull off for a night out with your friends or significant other.
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Love that the this pari has a zip-hem so you can wear the ankle-slit trend or keep them zipped for a classic legging look.
This effortless pair is double-lined and ready to wear with a variety of elevated pieces.
If you really want to make an ankle statement, this high-slit pair are right up your alley. Bonus points if you wear statement shoes worth showing off.
This timeless pair of leggings is great can easily go from day to night thanks to the polished feel of the design.
Hello, statement leggings. A fashion-forward pair of leggings is not always easy to find.
This pair goes out to the moms-to-be. Here's to being stylish and comfortable no matter how far along you are.
3. For Everyday
Alexis Foreman is a master at effortless everyday looks, and this one is no exception. The British influencer pairs her simple black leggings with a cozy neutral sweater, and chunky black tall boots. Every piece comes together to create a look that's great for running errands or meeting a friend for coffee.
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This jersey pair is made of an organic cotton blend and works with everything from a button-down to a hoodie.
Made with attention to stretch, these leggings are are great option for when you're on the go.
These leggings promise no bagging or sagging, which can be a huge problem with many styles after a lot of wears.
This neutral color is great for switching things up from the usual black options in our closet.
If you're looking for an option that hits below the ankle, this pick is worth considering. Plus, they are super soft to boot.
Can you tell I like side slits? I love the idea of styling these with cool slide sandals just like in the photo.
4. For Working Out
When it comes to working out, I prefer a minimalist look. Enter Tylynn Nguyen with this easy yet chic ensemble. She completes the black leggings look with scrunch socks and sneakers, but that's a trend that's great for another story.
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There's nothing better than a straightforward and simple black legging for working out.
Alo leggings are a fan favorite, especially with their moisture-wicking fabric that's great for those intense, sweaty workouts.
The flatlock seam on this style makes them look more expensive than they actually are.
This pair is a personal favorite. They give great support and hold up wash after wash.
You can't go wrong with a camel-colored legging since they are a neutral that goes with everything from blacks to grays to whites.
This mid-rise pick had two reviews that got my attention. The first said that they "feel like butter," and the other is that they are "squat proof."
A lovely dark-green pair is a nice way to round out your leggings collection. These are made of recycled nylon, have an extra-high waist, and help wick away sweat.
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