Leggings have an unfair bad reputation, in my opinion.
We’re often left feeling like we’re supposed to reach for something other than leggings if we want to seem “put-together,” but why are we trying to find an alternative if this option is stretchy and comfortable, AND we like how they look on us, you know?!
Leggings Have A Bad Rep: Let’s Style Them In 3 Fresh Ways
So, I’ve been thinking, maybe we don’t need to feel bad for reaching for our favorite pairs of black leggings as often as we do. Perhaps we just need some fresh inspiration in how to style them.
top | leggings | shoes | socks | bag
When I’m looking for a quick, easy outfit, leggings are an obvious choice. They’re the perfect companion to a busy mom life. And in case you’re curious…these lululemon leggings are definitely a favorite of mine.
But instead of throwing on my regular ol’ tees that I love so dearly, I’ve been reaching for a few other outfit combos to help make my looks feel more intentional.
These three outfits have been perfect for the mild winter climate of where I live in California, but they’ll be an amazing option as we roll into spring too.
Outfit Idea #1: Pair Your Leggings With A Slouchy Cardigan
sweater | tank | leggings | similar boots | bag
A slouchy cashmere cardigan paired with leggings is shockingly versatile, simply because it’s easy to class the look up with flats and jewelry, or keep it casual with sneakers and your hair in a bun. Either way, you feel put-together in that comfy, cute sweater.
Boots are a fun and easy way to add personality to a leggings outfit. While ankle booties were a popular match to leggings in past years, now it’s time to reach for something a little taller.
I personally love the idea of rocking this leggings-and-a-sweater outfit combo with tall wide-calf boots, and while these aren’t technically rain boots on my feet, the look would be stellar — and practical — for spring with a pair of your go-to rubber boots.
sweater | tank | leggings | similar boots | bag
Don’t feel like you’re restricted to a long cardigan if that’s not your preference. A cropped sweater that sits just at or above the bum is another great option (yes, leggings are in fact pants).
When I’m wearing a shorter sweater with leggings, I love reaching for sneakers to elongate my legs in the outfit as much as possible.
Fit Notes: This cashmere cardigan from Jenni Kayne is easily a top item in my closet and is worth the investment. I’m wearing a large!
Outfit Idea #2: Replace Your Oversized Tee With A Button-Down
Don’t get me wrong, I still think of an oversized tee with leggings as a must-have outfit. It’s now a classic, if you will. But I don’t always feel very chic in this combo.
When I want to feel like I put together an outfit on purpose but still have the same comfortable, easy, throw-and-go appeal, I simply swap my tees with an oversized button-down.
top | leggings | shoes | socks | bag
Since leggings are tight and fitted, and I prefer my button-downs to be loose and flowy, I love wearing the tops unbuttoned so as to still give me a bit of shape and dimension.
This outfit idea works great in all climates too. Reach for a lightweight linen top as the temperatures rise, or layer it up with a stretchy long-sleeve underneath if needing extra warmth.
top | leggings | shoes | socks | bag
My go-to? Cotton gauze — it’s the best.
Fit Notes: This Free People button-top shirt is my favorite purely for how soft it is. The top does run really big: I’m wearing a medium, and it fits loose and quite long. If you’re shorter than me, or looking for something a bit more minimal when it comes to the length, try a high-low top like this one — you still get the same flowy coverage but with a little less material.
Outfit Idea #3: Throw On A Statement Coat
coat | leggings | tee | shoes | bag
It goes without saying that this outfit idea is for those of us on the go.
Grabbing a statement coat (instead of a sweatshirt or worn-in fleece) is a great way to keep your leggings on, but still feel put-together when you’re leaving the house for school drop-off, errands or whatever the day requires.
I get most excited for linen when we’re nearing the end of winter. It’s a material that just feels like summer.
Free People’s Charlie trench coat is part linen — and the long overcoat of my dreams (that attached hood, are you kidding me?!).
I’ve also used this same “leggings with a statement coat” concept with an oversized biker jacket and a heavier dress coat. The outfit is always slightly unexpected and yet intentional, which makes it 10/10 in my book.
coat | leggings | tee | shoes | bag
Fit Notes: The trench coat runs slightly big. I’m wearing a medium (usually prefer a large in coats), and I love how it fits.
Xx,
Amy
Let’s be friends on Instagram! Sharing life from a California beach town, daily style & beauty faves, never-ending Gilmore Girl binge-athons — all with a good dose of adorable toddler content too.
Hey, Pinners…
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