One thing I'm often asked as a fashion editor and stylist is how to put together an easy, fuss-free outfit that still delivers on style, and my answer is often the same: a pair of leggings. Are they the obvious choice? No, but leggings are undeniably one of the most comfortable and hardworking pieces in your wardrobe, and whilst it might be controversial to suggest that they are just as versatile as your favourite blue jeans, the evidence speaks for itself.

In spring and summer, you can rely on leggings with oversized shirts and sandals for a throw-on-and-go 'fit, and in autumn and winter, they're the perfect base for slouchy knits, long coats and boots. But whilst we're stuck in the transitional period of breezy temperatures, spurts of rain and bouts of sun, what to wear can be difficult to get right, so if you're looking for an outfit that will do it all, leggings are an excellent starting point.

"The perfect pair of leggings can be worn for Pilates in the morning and martinis in the evening," says Leny founder Isabella Hoelk. "They make a great base layer in these colder months, and when paired with a structured blazer and knee-high boots or kitten heels, nobody will know you went to the gym before."

If we're preaching to the converted and leggings are already in your regular rotation, but you usually pair them with jumpers and trainers, there are a whole host of fresh new ways to style this ultimate wardrobe basic in 2026. Instead of buying anything new, fashion insiders are switching up the tried-and-tested formula for dressier, altogether more elegant finishes that have been inspiring my own ways to make leggings feel more luxe.

So, if you're ready to retire your denim for something a little more comfy, keep scrolling to see five leggings-styling hacks I've spotted time and again on fashion's best-dressed that always elevate leggings outfits into seriously stylish territory.

1. Play With Proportions

Style Notes: First up, the easiest trick in the book: balance out a bodycon bottom half like leggings with a supersized top. The same goes for the inverse too, but one of my personal favourite pairings is a slouchy knit or oversized jacket (blazers, bombers, bikers—you name it), worn with sleek cigarette trousers, skinny jeans or leggings that draw the eye down in a leg-lengthening effect.

2. Don't Shy Away From Prints

Style Notes: Just like tailored trousers, leggings will go with just about anything, so style up a simple black pair with a punchy print like Hetty Appleton-Miles' zebra-print coat. Head-to-toe prints not your style? A leopard bag or even a stripey knit works to the same effect.

3. Take the Belt-and-Boots Approach

Style Notes: Leggings don't need belt loops to make the best use of accessorising, as Andrea Ricci proves, and a chunky belt can cinch your waist or be worn loosely around your hips. Add tall boots for a little boho energy.

4. Switch Up the Silhouette

Style Notes: Full-length leggings are a certified classic, but there are so many other styles on the market now that you can have a different effect with various shoe styles—not just trainers. Stirrups! Capri! 7/8ths! Flared! They're all equally good with a mid-heeled court shoe, loafers or an easy ballet flat. "When it comes to leggings, I tend to accessorise intentionally. Gold jewellery and capri leggings always make me feel refined and effortlessly chic," says Hoelk.

5. The High/Low Mix

Style Notes: Marilyn NK's take on high/low dressing elevates casual leggings to a near-formal dress code with the clever addition of structured tailoring and polished accessories. When the weather is chilly, swap out the blazer for a long wool coat, and as soon as spring makes an appearance, a lighter trench.

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As a style conscious editor, I'm quick not to label anything as "out" as fashion works in cycles, and as quickly as anything is considered "dated" it can be brought back again with the right styling. A perfect example of this is the 2025's latest trouser trend: the leather legging. Once considered the It-silhouette of the mid-noughties, the ultra skinny leg fell out of favour in the 2020s with shoppers preferring a looser, straight-leg, but in the post-Christmas binge we've found ourselves looking for comfortable pieces that are low-maintenance and high-impact, and leggings tick every box; but especially when they come with a glossy, polished finish.

Real leather, faux leather, coated or stretch, luxe leggings are proving to be a favourite amongst editors and celebs alike, with fans like Rosie Huntingdon-Whiteley, Victoria Beckham, and Hailey Bieber keeping a pair in their regular rotation.

And, as we debate in the comment section whether skinny jeans are making a comeback or are gone for good, skinny leather leggings are quietly gaining traction, and could be the surprising transitional hero we didn't see coming. After all, you can wear them now with oversized wool coats, in spring with tees and jackets, and in autumn with light trench coats—they're just as easy to style as their straight-leg trouser counterparts (and after careful consideration, I'm willing to argue their case). So, should you be looking for easy bottoms that have got the style insiders stamp of approval, keep scrolling to see why leather leggings might just be your new fave in 2025.

Leather Leggings Outfits We're Copying Now:

Style Notes: Hailey's all-black winter outfit is the kind of easy-to-replicate look we keep in our saved folders for the days we don't know what to wear while it's cold. Equal parts cosy and chic, her leather leggings are the perfect addition to a hero coat, and she scores extra points for tucking them into a flat snow boot rather than opting for an impractical heel.

Style Notes: You might not recognise Vogue Australia editor-in-chief Christine Centenera, but you will know her brand Wardrobe.NYC. As spotted on the likes of Beyoncé, Matilda Djerf, Gigi Hadid and Pernille Teisbaek, the label is known for it's boxy, exaggerated tailoring often off-set with bodycon pieces like leggings, and this outfit is a masterclass in how to make stretch trousers look expensive.

Style Notes: If you're looking for legging outfit inspiration, look no further than Rosie Huntingdon-Whiteley. A cursory glance through her feed brings up dozens of enviable looks, but these coated leggings stood out for their sheer simplicity and ease. Would a pair of jeans or tracksuit bottoms have worked well here? Of course, but that little bit of extra shine goes the extra mile in helping this ensemble look "well put together".

Style Notes: This picture may have been taken in 2018, but revisiting it in 2025, it still looks decidedly fresh. Proving that there's nothing quite as classic as a simple white tee, Victoria Beckham's party outfit goes from casual daytime look to evening-ready with just the addition of a pair of patent leggings and a court shoe, a testament to the versatility of leather.

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There are a few pieces in my wardrobe that can be considered true staples, but the one piece that people are always surprised to see crop up in my everyday outfit rotation is a pair of leggings. Once exclusively reserved for lazy sofa days and pilates classes, leggings have since evolved from something you run errands in to a sleek sartorial choice thanks to the ascent of capsule wardrobes. Now, leggings have even gone so far as to earn their place in fashion circles, too.

Don't believe me? Check out the myriad of influencers, editors and industry insiders have styled black leggings with everything from oversized blazers to slingback heels. That's right, the humble legging is now considered appropriate for the office, dinner outings, the runway and it still remains the backbone of many of our comfy, everyday ensembles. Not bad for a jersey basic, right?

It’s not just in London where leggings reign supreme. Over in Los Angeles, members of the celebrity style set are styling theirs with slipper shoes, while New Yorkers are layering stirrup leggings over dainty kitten heels or pointed-toe slip-ons. (If you're curious how to make these combinations work, look no further than our comprehensive guide to perfecting a chic leggings and flat shoe outfit.)

One of the most desirable factors about owning leggings is how the silhouette endures season after season. During the cooler months, especially when you're stumped on what to wear to work in the winter, pair them with a sumptuous cashmere sweater and knee-high boots for a sophisticated way to mitigate the elements. As temperatures increase, peel back the layers and match your leggings with Mary Janes and a polo shirt, wearing white socks and a matching headband to channel your inner Bella Hadid or Brigitte Bardot.

"Well-made leggings combine comfort, style, and function," explains Kristen Hars, Founder and CEO of Scandinavian activewear brand Sisterly Tribe. "Whether you’re doing Pilates, running errands, or heading out for lunch, they offer an effortless look from studio to street—a modern wardrobe essential. They provide a foundation for an inexhaustible amount of pairings, it’s wise to invest in the best leggings available." .

But what actually are the best leggings on the market. Considering fit, stretch, support and fabric, I've done the legwork for you (pardon the pun) to ensure you’re stepping out in the most stylish and best-suited options. While we've already outlined how to wear leggings, after searching the net, scrolling through social media and asking my fellow editors, I tried on all the leggings worth testing and came out with these nine worthy winners. So whether you're looking for leather leggings for an evening out or the best active pair to pack in your gym bag, keep scrolling for my tried-and-tested review of the leggings worth spending your hard-earned cash on.

The 9 Best Leggings to Buy, As Reviewed By A Fashion Editor

1. Best Comfort Leggings: Adanola Ultimate Leggings, £40
2. Most Affordable Leggings: H&M High Waisted Legging, £10
3. Best Fashion Leggings: Commando Classic Legging, £195
4. Best Workout Leggings: Lululemon Align™ High-Rise Pant 25", £88
5. Best Seamless Leggings: Stretch-Ponte Leggings, £98
6. Best Support Leggings: Vuori Inversion Rib Legging, £120
7. Best Sculpting Leggings Wolford Scuba Stretch-Jersey Leggings, £155
8. Best Stirrup Leggings Tibi Compact Ultra Stretch Knit Stirrup Legging, £362
9. Best Split-Hem Leggings: Aje Athletica Split Hem Fashion Legging, £110

1. BEST FASHION LEGGINGS: COMMANDO

Style Notes: First things first, a brand that delivers on the kind of leggings you can wear for any occasion—Commando. The classic black leggings in stretch cotton are ultra-thick and have a built-in internal waistband (that doesn't roll down), but the star of the show is the brand's faux leather and patent leggings.

The leggings come in dozens of colours, styles, sizes and finishes, perfect for tucking into leather knee-high boots and pairing with chunky knit. If you've ever struggled with finding a pair of leather trousers that fit properly, start here.

Whether you're trying Commando leggings in jersey, denim, cashmere or even a maternity style, the fit around the waist is always impeccable, and there's a whole host of outfits you can build around this one key piece.

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2. BEST ACTIVE LEGGINGS: LULULEMON

Style Notes: The first thing I notice when I pull these Lululemon leggings on is just how much they stretch, and believe me, that is a very good thing. The extreme elasticity means that these leggings behave like a second skin, and as the focus isn't heavy compression, you can really bend and move in these without restriction.

Where I would want a fashion legging to suck everything in, these feel like you're wearing nothing at all, and that is a testament to the soft, brushed finish and light, breathable fabric that is perfect for any workout from yoga to cardio, especially in the wintertime.

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3. MOST COMFORTABLE LEGGINGS: ADANOLA

Style Notes: There's a reason that you'll always spot Adanola clothing out on the streets on weekend mornings or as an essential airport outfit. If you're looking for a pair of leggings that you can comfortably wear all day without even feeling like you're wearing them, these take the top spot.

Smoothing without constricting and with a flexible fit, these are the kind of leggings I want pull on the moment I get home, but it helps that they're elevated enough to wear out to brunch too. It's about time we had loungewear that looks as good as it feels.

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4. BEST STRETCH AND SUPPORT LEGGINGS: VUORI 

Style Notes: When I conducted a straw poll in the office for the best leggings for me to road test, Vuori got an immediate mention. My intro to the brand is the Daily Legging, and after wearing these adjustable leggings, it's clear why they're popular.

As someone who always struggles to find trousers and leggings that fit properly around the waist without the dreaded gap, Vuori has come up with the perfect solution—a tie-waist legging that grips and supports movement with a little added lift. Never again will you find yourself pulling up your leggings because of sag; these will hug your body for the perfect fit.

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5. BEST SCULPTING LEGGINGS: WOLFORD

Style Notes: If you've already tried Wolford's premium hosiery or stretch basics—arguably the best tights on the market—you'll have an idea of what to expect from the leggings, too. Before Skims was even a glint in Kim Kardashian's eye, Wolford set the agenda for smoothing, body-sculpting pieces to act as the foundation for an everyday wardrobe, and despite the brand's The W active range being the ideal workout clothes, the thick, waist-cinching, body-hugging fabric makes their leggings luxe enough for formalwear. Out of all the pairs of leggings on this list, these are the ones with the firmest support and are well worth paying a little more for to get the best silhouette.

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6. BEST AFFORDABLE LEGGINGS: H&M 

Style Notes: Seeing as many of the leggings on this list cost around the £80-£100 mark, I also have an affordable option to rival those premium offerings. H&M's activewear might not have been put through the same rigorous performance tests as the specialist sportswear brands, but I'm immediately impressed by just how good they look and feel. Whereas many high-street brands produce leggings that go sheer and stretch, H&M's are surprisingly thick, stretchy and cotton-soft. At under £15 for a pair, you might as well stock up.

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7. BEST SPLIT-HEM LEGGINGS: AJE ATHLETICA

Style Notes: Hailey Bieber and Kendall Jenner both own a pair of split-hem leggings, so naturally I immediately wanted split-hem leggings. Such is the power of this stretchy trouser-loungewear hybrid. The sliced cut is a unique design trick that elongates the leg. These toe the line between casual and chic, and make leggings acceptable for evening dressing in the process.

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8. BEST STIRRUP LEGGINGS: TIBI

Style Notes: In the world of contemporary New York-based label Tibi, leggings are considered a "WOF" or a "without fail". This is a sentiment I wholeheartedly agree with, which is why I've found myself completely enamoured with the brand's interpretation of stirrup leggings. This pair features a slimline side zip and a gorgeous buckle detail at the ankle to really drive the equestrian aesthetic home.

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9. BEST SEAMLESS LEGGINGS: SPANX

Style Notes: Of course, it would be remiss of me to not mention seamless leggings in this list. As this silhouette continues to grow in popularity outside of the gym floor, I've found myself gravitating towards the stylish offerings from Spanx. Each features the label's pioneering CoreSure Tech™ technology, fusing each of these high-performance pieces with a sculpting finish.

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What are the Main Differences Between the Different Types of Leggings?

The leggings market is one of the most oversaturated in the industry. Between inseams, lengths, fabrics and finishes, it's a struggle to know where to begin when shopping for pants, let alone know what to look out for when buying a good quality pair. "The main differences lie in fabric feel, support level, and intended activity," explains Another Version founder Shelley Cook. "[The brand] designs leggings for real life—whether that’s a workout, a long walk, or a full day of errands," she continues.

"Our Second Skin Leggings are our all-time best sellers, and for good reason. These are buttery, lightweight, and made for all-day wear. Our Ribbed Sculpt leggings offer a compressive, stay-put fit more suited for high-intensity movement, but still maintain a good balance of structure and stretch."

The primary difference ultimately comes down to the level of exercise you're doing when wearing leggings. For pulse-racing HIIT classes, you'll want to look for something more sculpting, while low-impact workouts can benefit from a softer finish.

How Can you Find What Legging Length Suits you Best?

Finding the right legging length comes down to your "height, proportions and how you want them to fit and feel," explains Hars. Typically, legging lengths are one of the following: full length, 7/8, crop and capri. As the name suggests, full-length hits right at the ankle, while 7/8 falls between your joint and the bottom of your calf. Crop finishes right around your muscle, and capri is a true three-quarter length.

"Full-length leggings (28" and above) suit longer legs, while 7/8 length (typically 24"–26") flatter most people and hit just above the ankle," explains Cook. "If you’re unsure, start with 7/8—they’re the most universally flattering in our opinion.

What Specific Activities Suit Different Types of Leggings Best?

Whether you're running to the gym or heading to brunch after a boxing class, specific workouts benefit from wearing specific leggings. Just like you wouldn't wear jeans to a spin class, there are specific materials that complement best and can actually enhance performance.

"The right leggings depend on your activity and desired look and feel," Hars tells me.

"For Pilates, yoga, and gym workouts, a snug, supportive fit with light compression and four-way stretch fabric offers flexibility and stability," she adds. "For running or higher-impact workouts, more compressive fabrics can help reduce bounce and fatigue. For slower movement, recovery, or lounging, cotton blends prioritise breathability and comfort over compression."

If you're looking for just a general do-it-all pair, Hars explains that something like the brand's SoftSculp fabric is ideal. "[It] combines sculpting support with a buttery-soft, second-skin feel. It features four-way stretch and strikes the perfect balance between compression and comfort. Ideal for all types of workouts and everyday wear." Consider me sold.

What Should You Look Out for When Buying Leggings?

If you're not testing the stretch and sheerness of leggings in person, there are a few tell-tale signs that you can look out for when shopping for the best styles online. "When it comes to performance leggings, the fabric composition might look similar on paper, but quality can vary significantly depending on construction, weight, texture, and finish," Hars notes. "Even among polyester-spandex blends, key differences in weaving, thread types, and treatments greatly affect how the fabric feels, performs, and looks," she continues.

So, where to start? "Consider how you want the leggings to feel," she explains. "Some fabrics offer a brushed finish with a cosy hand feel, while others have a sleeker, more technical look—perfect for a sculpted, elevated appearance."

Compression is another key factor. "Do you prefer a held-in, sculpting effect or a softer, more flexible fit?" Hars asks. "High-quality leggings offer excellent stretch and recovery, move naturally with your body, and maintain their shape after wear. Look for flat seams and always ensure the fabric is squat-proof."

"Ultimately, it’s about finding a pair that fits how you want to move, feel, and look," she reminds me. This is something Cook agrees with: "When leggings feel comfortable and luxurious but hold you in, that’s a sign of quality. We stand by feeling like the best, most confident version of yourself when you put on a pair of our leggings."

How Can you Tell If a Pair of Leggings are Good Quality?

There are also small indicators that give away whether a pair of leggings are good or bad. According to Cook, these pointers include: "A waistband that stays up, fabric that doesn't go sheer when stretched, and seams that don’t dig in or chafe. If it feels good from the moment you put it on, you're on the right track." Hars mentions a few other factors.

"High-quality leggings feel smooth and balanced in weight, not flimsy or overly shiny," she adds. "When stretched, the fabric should hold its shape without becoming see-through or loose. Examine the stitching and waistband. The seams should be clean, flat, and reinforced, and the waistband should hold without digging in or rolling down. Good leggings recover well after wear, returning to their original shape. Most importantly, try them on to experience comfort and support."

What are the Best Materials for Leggings?

You may notice that a lot of leggings brands use a lot of synthetic materials, but fear not. It's often the case that hybrid material blends make for the best leggings fabrics for a few reasons. "A blend of nylon and elastane is a top choice because it offers durability, stretch, and a smooth finish," Cook advises. "Nylon is breathable and resists wear, while elastane adds that perfect stretch-and-recovery."

If you're planning on working up a stretch, activewear leggings can also benefit from being made of "high-quality recycled polyester blended with spandex". According to Hars, this combination offers "durability, sweat-wicking properties, shape retention, and the right level of sculpting and stretch". "It’s technical enough to support movement while feeling smooth against the skin, perfect for that elevated, performance-meets-comfort feel," she adds. "For low-impact or lounging activities, organic cotton blends with a touch of elastane offer softness and breathability, though less sculpting."

What is the Best Way to Wash Your Leggings?

To preserve and extend the life of your leggings, Hars suggests "turning them inside out before washing to protect the fabric and maintain colour and stretch." You should also avoid using water that is scorching hot. Rather, she explains to "use a cold, gentle cycle and avoid fabric softeners, which can break down performance fibres over time." Once all washed, Cook tells me that letting them to air dry will help leggings keep their shape better. "Skip the dryer and lay flat or hang to dry. This protects elasticity, colour, and shape, keeping them looking newer for longer."

What is the Difference Between Leggings and Yoga Pants?

Yoga pants are an alternative to leggings that many celebrities like Kendall Jenner and Hailey Bieber have begun gravitating toward to. But what actually are they, and how are yoga pants different to leggings? "Leggings are typically tighter throughout and come in various fabrics and fits for both lifestyle and athletic wear. Yoga pants traditionally have a flared or bootcut leg and are made for movement with softer, brushed fabrics," Cook outlines. "These days, the lines blur, but leggings tend to be more versatile for both workouts and streetwear."

Is it Okay to Wear Leggings Every Day?

One of the biggest questions I get asked as a fashion editor is whether it's truly fine to wear leggings every day. When I sounded this question off around the Who What Wear team, the responses were varied. To some, this look feels a little too relaxed, while others think it's perfectly fine, as long as some consideration and care is put into elevating a staple part of the activewear uniform. The subject that is so polarising that it's often espoused that French women conspicuously change into leggings once they get to their workout class to avoid being seen in public wearing them. But we let the experts weigh in on this topic to get a full rounded answer.

"[Wearing leggings everyday is a hill we die on!" says Cook. "Today’s leggings are designed to move with you, support you, and keep you comfortable all day. A good pair of quality black leggings is an essential in any capsule wardrobe and can be endlessly styled." Hars, not too unsurprisingly, also agrees. "Well-made leggings combine comfort, style, and function. Whether you’re doing Pilates, running errands, or heading out for lunch, they offer an effortless look from studio to street—a modern wardrobe essential." Well there you have it.

How We Chose the Best Leggings

The best leggings were chosen after meticulous testing and trialling. Who What Wear UK's fashion editor, Remy Farrell, has tested numerous leggings over her expansive career, so when it came to this assignment, she revisited her former favourites along with new launches and exciting market innovations. She ensured that each pair of leggings was tested under the same methodology, factoring in pilling, endurance, stretch, comfort and finish. After wearing them to workout classes, into the office, through her daily commute and on long walks, Farrell determined the nine best leggings that women will want to live and move in.

Why Trust Us?

At Who What Wear UK, fashion is our speciality. Our editors have years of industry experience, from reporting on seasonal fashion trends seen at international fashion weeks to working with some of the most recognisable names in fashion. Every item we recommend is carefully selected based on current trends, quality and real-world wearability.

We regularly try pieces ourselves, everything from bestselling jeans to designer shoes, speak to external experts and fashion insiders and stay closely connected to what our readers are searching for. Our advice is grounded in expertise and has to pass our exceptional taste levels—so you can feel confident in every recommendation.

Leggings, once relegated to gym workouts, have now found their way into the everyday regalia of A-list celebrities who seem to be wearing them on rotation—just like the rest of us are—now that temperatures have started to take a downturn. From Victoria Beckham to Rochelle Humes, lately, the stars are turning the athleisure staple into a versatile fashion statement that effortlessly transitions from cosy loungewear to chic street style.

Picture Kendall Jenner striding confidently in stirrup leggings paired with kitten heels—a look that could easily be mistaken for a runway moment during her coffee run. Laura Harrier? She's blending luxury pieces such as wool maxi coats and minimalistic leather boots with leggings for a high-low look that exudes sophistication (and apparently works for the airport, too!). Rosie Huntington-Whiteley? She's mastering the art of private jet style, pairing her split hem leggings with a fur coat like it's second nature. And then there's Zoë Kravitz, who manages to make leggings look like couture with sunnies and a dramatic top. Who needs jeans anyway?

With so many celebrities setting the trend, leggings offer a blend of comfort and versatility, making them the ultimate wardrobe chameleon. Whether you're running errands or planning on elevating them for an evening out, these celebrity leggings outfits will help you unlock the limitless potential of leggings in your own wardrobe.

THE CELEBRITY LEGGINGS OUTFITS I'M LOW-KEY OBSESSED BY

1. KENDALL JENNER

Style Notes: Jenner's stirrup leggings and kitten heel pairing puts a super chic twist on the loungewear staple. Creating a streamlined look, her clever pairing is glamorous enough for an evening out and comfortable enough to wear all night.

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2. ROSIE HUNTINGTON-WHITELEY

Style Notes: Huntington-Whiteley's private jet style is something to be studied. With a comfortable foundation for leggings and a turtleneck, her dramatic fur coat and sky-high heels worked to bring all of the glamour to her in-flight look.

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3. VICTORIA BECKHAM

Style Notes: Even when bound to crutches with a broken foot, Victoria Beckham isn't one to take it easy on the style front. Wearing comfortable leggings with a neat knit and fresh trainer, her every day style remains looking fresh and considered day in and day out.

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4. ROCHELLE HUMES

Style Notes: Styling split hem leggings with a bold square toe heel, Rochelle Humes brought an unexpected twist to her look. Super smart but reliably comfortable, this underrated pairing is about to become a staple in my rotation.

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5. LAURA HARRIER

Style Notes: We love seeing what celebrities wear to the airport and, for my next flight, I'll absolutely emulating Laura Harrier's look, which includes a long coat, black leggings and easy-to-slip-off-at-security ankle boots. 

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6. ELSA HOSK

Style Notes: Who said leggings couldn't look glamorous? Split-hem pairs loan themselves perfectly to evenings out, especially when you style them with mules and a chic trench coat. 

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7. JASMINE TOOKES

Style Notes: You needn't stick to black or dark leggings, either! Jasmine Tookes makes a case for lighter hues, going as far as to lean into the cream theme of her pair with a matching vest top and cardigan. For peak comfort, just add Uggs. 

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8. SOFIA RICHIE GRAINGE

Style Notes: Thank you, Sofia Richie Grainge, for assembling the perfect errands-running outfit for us. I didn't know I needed a Dragon Diffusion bag so badly. 

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9. EMILY RATAJKOWSKI

Style Notes: Cropped leggings have a completely different feel to longer styles, and can be dressed up with ease. According to Emily Ratajkowski, all you need is your favourite blazer and heels. 

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10. ZOË KRAVITZ

Style Notes: Leggings on the red carpet are a rarity but if anyone can pull them off in such a way, it's Zoë Kravitz. Her top gives her shiny leggings instant polish, and finishing with some shades won't hurt matters in the cool department either. 

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11. HAILEY BIEBER

Style Notes: If Hailey Bieber wears something, I usually want to copy it. This time, she's convinced me I do in fact need a pair of flare leggings, which she expertly toughens up with a roomy leather biker. 

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13. KENDALL JENNER

Style Notes: A trick for making your leggings look more expensive? Pair them with premium fabrications such as leather or cashmere. Or, in Kendall Jenner's instance, both! I don't know about you but after seeing her two leggings looks, I definitely feel inspired.

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13. ROSIE HUNTINGTON-WHITELEY

Style Notes: Turns out. Rosie really loves her leggings! After seeing latest ensemble, we dug a little deeper into the archives and found this gem. Easy looks don't get much simpler than this leather leggings-and-oversized knit pairing. 

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Nothing style-related has undergone a reinvention quite like leggings. Just a few short years ago, many would have shuddered at the thought of leaving the house in leggings, that is unless the destination was either the gym or the school gates at 8.28am. Okay, so I'm being overly exaggeratory, but it's true for me at least; I just wouldn't have had the confidence to do so. And that's quite sad. 

However, in recent years, leggings have become a lot more commonplace outside of athleisure and have morphed into something quite chic indeed. The more I've seen people styling theirs with blazers and jumpers, and finishing with sleek boots or loafers or trending trainers, the more I've come around to wearing them as I do my jeans. Be it for brunch dates, coffee runs, trips to the shops, or even low-key dinners out, leggings are no longer off limits (albeit my own self-imposed limits) for me. 

This new-found liberation means I've become something of a legging fanatic. My collection is small, but I'm always on the look-out for elevated options to add to it. Comfort is still a key priority, but why can't I have it all and look chic in the process? It might sound like too much to ask but, in actual fact, I've found five fresh leggings trends for 2023 that fulfil my requirements. In fact, I've already purchased a pair—here's looking at you, COS—which I've hardly taken off since they arrived.

Of course, our classic leggings will forever be a hard-working staple in our wardrobes, but if you're looking for new ways to wear them, go right ahead and scroll below. 

1. Zip-Hem Leggings

Style Notes: If you're loyal to your classic black leggings, then why not ease yourself into the current trends with a pair with a zip hemline. You can keep them closed should you wish but, when you find the perfect shoe pairing to try the split look with, you can open them right on up. 

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2. Brown Leggings

Style Notes: Brown is one of the biggest colour trends of the season, so I knew it wouldn't be long until it made its way onto leggings. What I didn't expect, however, was just how chic it would look. 

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3. Cropped Leggings

Style Notes: Now here's a leggings trend I didn't see making a comeback. A large part of my teens saw me wearing miniskirts with cropped, pedal pusher-style leggings underneath. Now, I keep seeing fashion types wearing leggings that hit just below the knee, albeit more chicly than I did in 2006. 

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4. Flared Leggings

Style Notes: As wide-leg silhouettes have become increasing popular where trousers and jeans are concerned, it should come as no surprise that leggings are also being given the wide-leg treatment. While the tops of the leggings still fit closely to the body, the legs themselves are cut straighter than normal, which creates a flared effect. Kendall Jenner has already pledged her allegiance to them; will you? 

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5. Leather Leggings

Style Notes: Make no mistake, Y2K-style leather leggings are slowly creeping their way onto the scene once more. Hailey Bieber recently wore a pair and, now that I've clocked on, I keep seeing them on social media, too. Real or faux, there's an option out there for you. 

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Next Up: & Other Stories' Sell-Out Cardigan Is Back in a Chic New Colourway

When fashion items are deemed "out," they fall into one of two categories. Either they've simply hit their peak for the time being and are expected to return to grace in the future, or they're so hated by then that we collectively promise never to wear them again. Leather leggings, similar to extra-low-rise jeans and whale tails, fell into the latter group. But just like its neighbours on the list, the controversial legging style is unexpectedly back. For proof, see Hailey Bieber.

During her and Kylie Jenner's trip to Aspen for New Year's Eve, the model and Rhode founder was spotted downtown wearing an all-black après-ski outfit consisting of an oversize, belted Saint Laurent coat, sunglasses, and a Le 5 À 7 shoulder bag as well as Loewe leather puffer boots and matching leggings—leather leggings just like the ones she used to wear on repeat back in the late 2010s. Oddly enough, this time around, her choice of skintight bottoms didn't result in the ick like it would have even just a few months ago. Instead, I get the feeling that leather leggings will be back to reigning in the fashion world in no time now that they have Bieber's stamp of approval. 

Check out her Aspen look and shop leather leggings below. 

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Next up: The 9 Most Expensive-Looking Pieces on the High Street This Week

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear US. 

Whenever I stop and think about leggings, flashbacks from my high school wardrobe full of ankle-grazing, jersey leggings paired with Nike socks and Birkenstock sandals flood my brain. But recently, after seeing the way that fashion's finest have elevated the once über-casual silhouette, I've begun to rethink my former distaste for the style. In fact, I'm starting to come to terms with the fact that leggings might actually be cool again, especially the pairs I've spotted for autumn/winter 2022.

From split-hem styles paired with skinny-heeled boots to stirrup alternatives strapped to loafers, today's legging trends aren't even comparable to the ones we all frequented back in the mid-2010s. And to prove it to you, I rounded up all of the most impressive styles on the market right now. After a few scrolls, I think you'll come to agree with me that leggings are worthy of a second chance.

1. Split-Hem Leggings

One of my biggest qualms with the way leggings were worn back in the '10s was that they never looked quite right with heels—only sneakers or boots. With the buzzy split-hem look, though, there's no awkward space between the bottom of your leggings and the beginning of your shoes. 

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2. Neutral Leggings

Black leggings are great and all, but you can only have so many pairs before they start to feel boring and redundant. That's where a neutral brown or tan pair comes in. They're equally versatile and comfy but won't look like every other pair of leggings in the world.

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3. Stirrup Leggings

Once used for strictly practical purposes, stirrup leggings have recently become a favourite among the fashion crowd, with many securing the loops around luxury heels or with lug-soled loafers.

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4. Belted Leggings

Another fashion-favourite legging trend? Belted styles, which were really perfected by Istanbul-based brand Cult Form. The key to this style is an extra-high-waist silhouette, secured at the top with a belt that elevates your leggings with one easy clasp.

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5. Short Leggings

When the warm weather hits, nothing is quite as easy or stylish as a pair of bike shorts, be they paired with a matching workout top and sneakers or an oversized blazer and knee-high boots. (I'm biased toward the latter, but to each their own.)

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6. Legging Bodysuit

IMO, the fewer pieces I have to put on to make a 10/10 outfit, the better. So it's no wonder that I've fallen fast and hard for the legging-bodysuit trend, which needs nothing but knee-high boots or heels and a shacket or a blazer to take it from workout piece to event-ready ensemble.

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7. Leather Leggings

Once my least-favourite style of leggings, leather leggings are now at the top of my to-buy list. There's just something so luxurious about the way that the style is being dressed up in 2022 that I can't get out of my head. 

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Coming up: This Popular Shoe Trend Looks So Classic With Leggings 

This post originally appeared on Who What Wear U.S.

If there's one thing you should know about me, it's that I love to dance. Now, this doesn't necessarily mean I'm actually any good at it, but somehow my inhibitions melt away and are swiftly replaced with what I can only describe as instinct as I sashay, spin and side-step my way into the early hours. I've danced in seedy bars. I've even danced on bars (don't be fooled—it looked nothing like Coyote Ugly). One time, I even danced at an industry party with Alexa Chung, who seemed to be in awe of my rhythm (or perhaps, my lack thereof). It's not clear, as we didn't speak afterwards. 

The point of my story is that I've danced enough to know that wearing constricting clothes only hinders my movement. And although nights out might be on hold right now, I see this as an opportunity; to take my trusty leggings and give them a fancy overhaul for 2020's "party season"—my front room being the venue of choice. 

Handily, it seems I'm not the only one who has the party leggings idea.Not just one but four of my favourite influencers are already styling up their black leggings for after-dark endeavours, and they've inspired me to do the same. From sleek layering techniques to choosing suitably glamorous accessories, creating party outfits with leggings is easier than you might think. Keep scrolling to discover the four looks I intend on replicating before the year is out. Who knows, I might even upload my efforts (both styling and dancing) on TikTok. 

Style Notes: Wearing a dress over trousers is one of the fashion pack's favourite styling tricks, and the look proves just as sleek when using leggings, too. Look for button-front dresses you can leave open to flash some jersey; then finish with elegant heels. Or your slippers. No judgement. 

Style Notes: Leather-look leggings are just as comfortable as standard jersey leggings, but feel significantly more glamorous from the off. For full-on party vibes, add a sequin top into the mix. 

Style Notes: Make your basic legging and white t-shirt combination feel more polished in a flash by adding a chain belt and a slick of bright red 

Style Notes: The simplest way to make your leggings work for your group Zoom calls is with a fancy top that'll be picked up on camera, And Self-Portrait's off-the-shoulder number is just the ticket.

Style Notes: Make your basic legging and white t-shirt combination feel more polished in a flash by adding a chain belt and a slick of bright red lipstick. 

This post was originally published at an earlier time and has since been updated 

Next Up: Parties Might Not Be Happening, But Here's How You Can Still Wear Sequins

I've become a woman possessed—I simply must own a pair of leather trousers this year. It's really rare that this kind of desire sweeps over me. For a fashion editor, I actually buy very little. So when the urge comes, I know I should follow it, as 99.9% of the time, it results in a sensible purchase that I'll get plenty of wear out of for years to come.

Once upon a time, leather trousers were the ultimate in discomfort. One can't help but instantly conjure up images of Ross from Friends and his leather-pant disaster when considering them. But since then the technology behind the hides and fabrics used has moved on leaps and bounds (stretch leather and leather-blends are a thing of absolute genius), and we're now at a point where the association with talcum powder is all but obliterated. 

The other factor that is also helping to push this look further is the introduction of high-quality vegan leather designs. Cult brand Nanushka could be accredited with really spearheading this movement, but you'll now find cool faux-leather iterations across designer houses and at high street stores—I've noticed Mango is particularly good for them. 

Keep scrolling to shop out the best leather trousers from designer brands, affordable stores and also faux-leather creations.

THE BEST DESIGNER LEATHER TROUSERS:

Style Notes: A quick glance on social media will only prove how popular leather trousers have become in recent years, second only to jeans maybe, as the top trouser choice of influencers right now. Browse e-commerce sites such as Net-a-Porter or MatchesFashion and you'll see that there is a plethora of different styles, silhouettes and colours. As a category, the styles available have really opened up. Not so long along the only leather trousers en vogue were just skinny and tight, like a pair of spray-on jeans. These days you'll find leather joggers, wide-leg cuts, cropped flares, tapered legs, paper-bag waists, and all sorts of colours, ranging from classic black or cream through brown, snake-print, burgundy, croc-embossed, pastels and much more. My favourite classics can be found below.

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THE BEST HIGH-STREET LEATHER TROUSERS

Style Notes: Real leather is, of course, inherently more expensive thanks to the premium nature of the fabric. But it is possible to find some leather trousers at the more affordable end of the spectrum on the high street—think hundreds rather than thousands. 

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THE BEST FAUX LEATHER TROUSERS

Style Notes: Prefer a "vegan" option? Opt for faux styles, which have come an extremely long way in the last few years. Gone are the days of plastic-y finishes. Now faux-leathers can be just as buttery soft as the real thing, and top designers like Nanushka and Stella McCartney are embracing this more planet-friendly option. 

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This was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.

Next up: Autumn Is Here—12 Simple Items You Don't Want to Be Without

No matter if you're a runner or dancer, you need the gear to get you there. And if you're looking for inspiration to "do more," there's no one to better exemplify that idea than multi-hyphenate trendsetter FKA Twigs. As the creative director for Nike's new Zonal Strength Tights campaign, Twigs has created an inspiring new vision that unites Olympic athletes, dancers, and athletic stars alike.

Said Twigs in an open letter for the campaign, "When Nike reached out to me about collaborating together on this project, I saw it as an opportunity to inspire people who want to use their bodies in a positive way." Twigs goes on to share more thoughts about the intersection of creativity and athleticism. Watch her campaign video below, and then click through to check out campaign photos along with her inspiring quotes.

"Since as early as I can remember, I’ve been obsessed with training and taking classes. When I was three years old, I started taking dance classes at a local youth centre and by the time I turned seven, I was training in six different dance styles."

"You have to be incredibly in tune with yourself and focused to be able to compete or create - vulnerability and strength have a lot to do with this." 

"As an athlete, in your final moments of competition - everything you’ve done, everything your parents have sacrificed and everyone who has supported you are there in that one second. You have to accept your destiny and have both the physical power, willpower to do what you need to do."

"I cast a group of amazing people who take their physicality seriously and have their own sense of style, in order to push people to be healthy and understand, through any genre of sport, they can be the best versions of themselves."

"People don't always see dancers as athletes, but we are."

"As a dancer, I try to embrace my fragility and accept that where I’m at is good enough. Dancers are taught to always looking in the mirror, from an early age, making sure we have perfect alignment. There comes a point when you just have to let go and trust that you're going to get where you need to be."

"For me the dream is that you don't even realise you're working out. You're just doing you, and then the results come, and you value them as they're happening."

"When I'm dancing, I'm not thinking about working on my abs or my legs. But if I train hard, I feel so confident in my body. Just through training, enjoying music, being with my friends, and exploring my body, all of a sudden I feel stronger."

"Overall, dance makes you realise that there’s beauty in the imperfections. I think that's what can make it most intriguing for people to watch."

"I truly believe that success is when preparation meets opportunity. It’s the same with any creative endeavour or athletic journey."

"It's not about the moment you jump off the diving board. It’s not about any one beat you’ve produced. It's about the moments before that – the preparation is the training, the hard work and the opportunity is the moment you reach your fastest time, how creative you can be, or how good your beat is."

"Through dance and fitness, I’ve met young people who work really hard and have dedicated their lives to being physical. To me they represent 'modern movement,' which I define as exploring any genre of sport without boundaries."

Inspired by FKA Twigs campaign? Let us know in the comments, and then check out the leggings on Nike's site.

There is an art form to pulling off leggings when you're not in a gym class. Just because Gigi Hadid does it with such great ease, doesn't mean she hasn't got a fashion formula behind her look! There are certainly key pieces that shouldn't be worn with leggings, from pencil skirts to shorts, but we'd rather fast forward what does work.

Think of this as your speedy go-to guide for four different key pieces or categories of style that you can confidently wear with your favourite pair of leggings, be it en route to spin or strolling through town with an endless to-do list on your mind.

Scroll down for your leggings 101, and shop our favourite picks throughout!

The combination of Chelsea boots and well-fitted leggings makes for one of the most flattering, figure-loving combinations ever. Team it with a long-line top, add a premium bomber jacket and this look will take you all over the urban jungle.

Thanks to Miu Miu and Gucci, "cardigan" no long has negative connotations surrounding it. Oh, no, a chic cashmere cardigan is best worn with a leather pencil skirt, or better yet, with suede leggings and luxe trainers.

Think of this mix as a cool spin on the '80s trend. The dress with an built-in waistband will cinch in your waist, while the leggings with make high octane dresses okay for day and night. That's clever.

Of course, we wouldn't let a leggings-based fashion feature go by without acknowledging that leggings are the very centrepiece to the sports luxe movement, and an absolute wardrobe staple for Gigi Hadid (gym appointment or no). Add a quilted high-performance jacket for park runs, or add a jersey jumper to your favourite pair of leather leggings for a zero-effort, instantly urbane outfit that'll see you through lazy Sundays to chilled brunches.

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Lead Images: Style Du Monde / A Love Is Blind

How often do you wear leggings? Only to the gym or all the time? Comment below!