Leggings are a wardrobe staple. Many think they’re only required for workouts or yoga classes, but after seeing how fashion girls are wearing them now, you might just think otherwise.
The comfy trews are pretty much synonymous with ’80s style, but the way we wear them has changed over the last few decades.
Back then you’d wear them with oversized sweatshirts and/or leg warmers, then they came back in the noughties. I cringe when I think back to those American Apparel shiny disco pants I used to wear, or the dresses I may or may not have worn over the top.
It’s those kind of outfits that give leggings a bad reputation, but I’m coming round to the new way of wearing them now.
Split hems, faux leather pairs, and my personal favourite, printed pairs worn as co-ords are just some of the trends we’re seeing coming through for 2023.
And while we don’t believe they should just be worn to the gym, we can’t deny that’s the most popular way to wear ’em.
I’ve found 5 great ways to wear the staple in 2023 and the best leggings to go with the trends, from your regular gymwear to chic and polished outfit ideas. Comfort is key – but style doesn’t need to take a backseat.
These women’s leggings come in a variety of colors and a range of sizes, so anyone can add them to cart. Your workout clothes never looked so good!
As always, we encourage you to wear whatever the hell you want. Style rules are there to be broken and you should wear what makes you feel the most comfortable and confident – but hopefully these help a little!
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Printed
Printed legwear isn’t just for workouts. Emili Sindlev shows us how it’s done in D&G.
Abstract print semi-sheer leggings, £295, Pucci – buy now
Halcyon flared mid-rise stretch-woven leggings, £325, KNWLS – buy now
Center Stage high-rise stretch-woven leggings, £120, All Access – buy now
Co-ordinated
Team yours with a matching top like Sara Thomas. When it comes to this trend, more is more.
Crescent moon print jersey top, £291, Marine Serre – buy now
Moon-print stirrup leggings, £303, Marine Serre – buy now
Base layer top in mono swirl, £18, ASOS 4505 – buy now
Base layer legging in mono swirl, £16.50, ASOS 4505 – buy now
With chunky boots
Queen of minimalist fashion, Felicity Bird teams her simple black leggings with some chunky welly boots and an oversized knit.
Basic leggings, £22.99, Mango – buy now
Flat Knee High Boots, £59.99, Stradivarius – buy now
Split hem
Unless you’ve been living under a rock, chances are you’re seeing split hems everywhere.
Slim-fit Super Stretch Slit Pants, £34.95, NA-KD – buy now
Zip-Hem Leggings, £59, COS – buy now
At the gym
Any gym-goer can’t be without their favourite pair, whether for pilates, yoga, running or just errands. Here are my favourites, with breathable fabric and in vibrant colors.
Aerial Power UltraSculpt High Waisted Leggings, £88, Sweaty Betty – buy now
Next up: Lululemon vs Sweaty Betty: Which Is Worth the Splurge?
Wrapover-waist sports tights, £22.99, H&M – buy now
Epic Fast Pocket Running Leggings, £49, Nike – buy now
