How to Wear Stylish Outfits with Leggings For Every Season, Occasion & Body Type

Leggings have become a ubiquitous fashion trend in recent years, offering the perfect combination of comfort and style for any occasion. They're a staple in every woman's wardrobe, effortlessly transitioning from workout wear to casual outfits to office-appropriate attire. In today's article, we'll dive deep into the world of leggings, exploring what makes them so versatile, the various types available, what to wear with leggings and how to pick the right pair for your needs. We'll also provide tips and tricks for styling leggings as well as suggestions on the type of leggings that work with different body types. Become a leggings expert! We're here to guide you, so you can look and feel your best no matter where life takes you.

Quick Links

• Frequently Asked Questions
• What makes leggings so versatile
• Tights vs leggings
• What to wear with leggings in a casual setting
• Legging outfits for business-casual settings
• Leggings with athletic wear
• How not to wear leggings
• How to style leggings for different body types
• Legging outfits for different seasons
• Wear the best outfits with leggings

Frequently Asked Questions

What to wear with my leggings?

The beauty of leggings is their versatility. Dress them with a chic tunic and heels, or wear them with an oversized sweater and sneakers. Experiment with different tops, shoes, and accessories to create endless outfit possibilities that make you feel confident and stylish.

What underwear to wear with gym leggings?

Opt for seamless underwear in moisture-wicking fabric for ultimate comfort and support. You want underwear that won't create visible panty lines and won't ride up or shift during your workout. Choose a style that makes you feel confident and secure, and you'll be ready to crush your workout easily!

Can I wear leggings as pants?

Leggings are not pants, but if you need to make it work, here's what to do. Choose a pair of thick and opaque leggings for adequate coverage. Secondly, pair the leggings with a longer top that covers your bottom, such as a tunic or a long sweater. Choose the right shoes to pair with your leggings. Opt for ankle boots or heels to dress up the outfit.

What makes leggings so versatile?

Leggings are versatile because they can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Here's why we love leggings so much.

• Comfortable: Leggings are made from stretchy and comfortable materials, such as cotton, spandex, or nylon, which makes them ideal for lounging around the house or running errands.
• Easy to style: There are options galore if you're wondering what to wear with leggings. You could wear leggings with dresses or pair them with various tops and shoes. Throw in a blazer and heels, or dress down with a t-shirt and sneakers.
• Suitable for different body types: Leggings come in a range of sizes, lengths, and styles, making them suitable for different body types. People of all ages, sizes, and shapes can wear them.
• Versatile colours and patterns: Leggings come in various colours and patterns, making them easy to pair with different outfits. For instance, you could wear an outfit with black leggings or solid colours. Or, you could choose patterns such as stripes, floral, or animal prints.
• Wear in different seasons: Leggings are a year-long staple, which means you can wear them through different seasons. Style with a sweater and boots in the winter or a tank top and sandals in the summer.

Tights vs leggings

Tights vs leggings is a hotly debated topic. Essentially these are two types of legwear that are often used interchangeably. However, the two have significant differences that make them suitable for different occasions and purposes. Tights are a hosiery made from a thin, sheer material such as nylon or spandex. They are designed to be worn underneath clothing, such as skirts or dresses, to provide an extra layer of warmth or coverage. Tights are available in various colours and patterns and can be opaque or sheer, depending on the style.

Conversely, leggings are skin-tight garments that cover the legs and sometimes the hips. They are typically made from thicker, stretchier materials such as cotton, polyester, or spandex. Leggings are designed to be worn as pants, and if you're wondering what to wear with leggings, these are often paired with longer tops or tunics.

While both tights and leggings serve similar purposes, there are key differences between the two. Tights are generally more formal and are often worn as part of a dressier outfit, while leggings are more casual and are typically worn for athletic activities or as part of a comfortable, everyday outfit.

When it comes to making the tights vs leggings choice, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and the occasion. Tights are the way to go if you want something to wear with a dress or skirt for a formal event. If you're looking for something comfortable and versatile for running errands or hitting the gym, leggings are the better choice.

Overall, both tights and leggings are essential pieces of legwear that have their own unique uses and advantages. Whether you prefer the formality of tights or the comfort and flexibility of leggings, there is a style out there that will meet your needs and suit your personal style.

What to wear with leggings - Casual clothing

Leggings are the ultimate staple for a casual and comfortable outfit. They're versatile, easy to wear, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Here are some tips for wearing casual outfits with leggings to help you look stylish and comfortable.

Pair with oversized tops

One of the best legging outfits is pairing them with oversized tops. This creates a balanced look and avoids the risk of appearing too tight and uncomfortable. Oversized tops like sweatshirts, tunics, or oversized sweaters create a relaxed, laid-back look perfect for a casual outing or running errands.

Leggings with dresses

There's nothing quite like the perfect combination of a dress and leggings in a casual setting. It's effortless, chic, and oh-so-comfortable! First things first, choose a dress that makes you feel amazing. Whether it's a flowy maxi dress, a cute little sundress, or a casual t-shirt dress, make sure it fits you like a glove and flatters your figure.

Next, choose a pair of leggings that complement the dress. You want colour and fabric that coordinate well with the dress while adding a layer of comfort and style. A dress/outfit with black leggings is always a classic choice, but don't be afraid to experiment with different shades and textures, such as leather or patterned leggings.

Layer with jackets or cardigans

Layering is another way to add dimension and style to your leggings outfit. Throw on a denim jacket or a cosy cardigan to add warmth and texture to your look. This also helps create a more polished and put-together look perfect for casual dinners or coffee dates with friends.

Add some fun accessories

Accessories are a great way to elevate your outfit with leggings and add personality to your look. Add a statement necklace, a colourful scarf, or a trendy hat to your outfit to make it more interesting and fun. This also helps to create a more cohesive and stylish look that's perfect for any casual occasion.

Wear with sneakers or boots

When it comes to footwear, sneakers and boots are the perfect pairing for leggings. Sneakers are comfortable and practical, perfect for running errands or doing light exercise. Boots, however, are perfect for creating a more put-together look that's still comfortable and casual. Ankle or knee-high boots are perfect for cooler weather and can be paired with various tops. If you're wearing a dress, depending on the style of the dress and the occasion, you can wear anything from sneakers to sandals to ankle boots. Just ensure the shoes are comfortable enough to wear all day long.

Choose the right length

The length of your leggings is crucial for creating the perfect casual look. Ankle-length leggings are perfect for warmer weather and can be paired with sneakers or sandals. Capri leggings are great for a sportier look and can be paired with sneakers or ballet flats. Full-length leggings are perfect for cooler weather and can be paired with ankle or knee-high boots.

Legging outfits for business casual settings

Leggings are no longer just for casual occasions - you can wear them confidently in more formal settings such as the workplace. When it comes to business casual outfits, leggings can be a great way to add comfort and style to your wardrobe. Here are some tips on what to wear with leggings for business casual settings that will help you look professional and polished.

Choose the right fabric

When selecting leggings for a business casual outfit, opt for high-quality fabrics such as Ponte knit, faux leather, or thick cotton. These fabrics are more polished than traditional cotton leggings and more appropriate for a professional setting. Avoid sheer or flimsy fabrics, which can appear too casual for the workplace.

Pair with a blazer or jacket

One of the easiest ways to dress up leggings for a business casual outfit is to pair them with a blazer or jacket. This balances out the casualness of the leggings. Choose a tailored blazer or jacket in a neutral colour such as black, navy, or grey for a classic look.

Wear with dressy shoes

Shoes are crucial to any business casual outfit, and dressy shoes are a must when wearing leggings. Opt for classic pumps, ankle boots, or loafers to create a more formal and polished look. Avoid athletic shoes or sneakers, as they can appear too casual for the workplace.

Choose the right top

When it comes to tops, it's important to strike the right balance between comfort and professionalism. Opt for a tailored blouse, tunic, or sweater in a neutral colour to create a cohesive look.

Accessorise appropriately

Accessories are an important part of any business casual outfit, and when it comes to leggings, it's important to keep them simple and understated. Opt for classic accessories such as a statement necklace or a structured handbag to add sophistication to your outfit.

Leggings with athletic wear

Athletic wear has become a staple in many people's wardrobes, and leggings are a versatile and comfortable option that can be worn for various activities. Here are some tips for wearing the best leggings for the gym and other exercises to help you look and feel your best.

Pair with a sports bra or tank top

When wearing leggings for athletic activities, choosing a top that provides support and allows for ease of movement is important. Opt for a sports bra or tank top designed for your specific activity: yoga, running, or weightlifting. This will help keep you comfortable and prevent wardrobe malfunctions during your workout.

Layer with a jacket or hoodie

If heading to the gym or running outside, consider layering your leggings with a jacket or hoodie. This will help to keep you warm and provide an extra layer of support during your workout. Look for lightweight, breathable materials that will allow you to move freely.

Choose the right shoes

Shoes are crucial to any athletic outfit, and when it comes to legging outfits for the gym, it's important to choose the right pair. Opt for sneakers that provide support and cushioning for your activity, whether running, weightlifting, or CrossFit. Avoid shoes that are too tight or uncomfortable, as they can hinder your performance.

Accessorise with a gym bag

If you're heading to the gym or a fitness class, accessorising with a gym bag can be a stylish and practical addition to your outfit. Look for a roomy bag to hold all your workout essentials, such as a water bottle, towel, and extra clothing. Choose a bag in a fun and trendy colour or pattern to add personality to your outfit.

How (not) to wear leggings

While these are a versatile and comfortable piece of clothing, people make common mistakes when wearing them. Here are some top mistakes to avoid when wearing outfits with leggings:

Wearing too sheer leggings:

Choosing leggings thick enough to provide coverage and not see-through is important. Always check the fabric and ensure it's not too thin before purchasing.

Pairing leggings with the wrong shoes:

Avoid wearing leggings with open-toe shoes, flip-flops, or sneakers with a high ankle, as they can make the outfit look sloppy.

Wearing leggings as pants:

Leggings are not pants and should not be treated as such. Avoid wearing leggings with short tops or cropped shirts that don't cover your bottom, as this can make the outfit look unflattering and inappropriate.

Choosing the wrong size:

Leggings should fit snugly without being too tight or loose. Avoid choosing too small leggings, as they can create unflattering bulges or leggings that are too big, as they can sag and lose their shape.

Wearing leggings with too many patterns:

Leggings come in various patterns, but choosing patterns that complement the rest of the outfit is important. Steer clear of wearing leggings with too many patterns or prints, creating a busy and overwhelming look.

How to style leggings for different body types

Whether you have a curvy figure, an hourglass shape, or a more athletic build, you can find and style cute outfits with leggings to accentuate your best features and create a flattering look. Here are some tips on how to style leggings for different body types:

For curvy figures

• Choose high-waisted leggings to smooth out any bumps or lumps and create a flattering silhouette for curvy figures. Pair them with a crop top or a tunic to create a balanced look.
• Dark-coloured leggings can help create a slimming effect and make your legs look longer. Pair them with a bright-coloured top to add colour to your outfit.
• Avoid horizontal stripes: Horizontal stripes can make curvy figures look wider. Instead, opt for leggings with vertical stripes or a solid colour.

For hourglass figures

• A wider waistband can help accentuate the waist and create a flattering hourglass silhouette. Pair them with a fitted top to show off your curves.
• Experiment with patterns. Try wearing outfits with leggings in a floral or geometric pattern to add interest.
• Avoid baggy tops. Resist the urge to hide your curves with baggy tops that will make your outfit look unbalanced. Instead, opt for a fitted top that shows off your waist and accentuates your curves.

For athletic builds

• Choose leggings with a compression fit. This helps enhance your muscles and create a sculpted look. Pair them with a loose-fitting top to balance the outfit.
• Experiment with bold colours. Try wearing leggings with a bold pattern or a bright colour to add interest.

Leggings are a versatile piece of clothing that can be worn throughout the year, but styling them for different seasons requires some adjustments to your outfit.

Legging outfits during different seasons

Here are some tips on how to wear leggings during different seasons:

Autumn

• Layer up. As the weather gets cooler, layering becomes essential. Pair leggings with a long sweater or a cardigan, and add a scarf or a jacket to complete the look.
• Autumn is perfect for experimenting with warm, rich colours like burgundy, mustard, and olive. Pair coloured leggings with neutral tops to create a balanced look.
• Ankle or knee-high boots can elevate your outfit and make it look more put-together.

Winter

• Winter calls for thicker leggings that provide warmth and comfort. Look for leggings made of fleece or lined with a soft material to keep you warm.
• Layering is key in the winter. A great leggings outfit idea is to wear leggings with a turtleneck sweater or a long-sleeved top and add a coat or a parka to complete the outfit.
• Winter is the perfect time to wear boots with your leggings. Choose a pair of boots that are warm and waterproof to keep your feet dry and toasty.

Spring

• Choose lighter fabrics like cotton or polyester blends. Look for leggings that are breathable and comfortable to wear in warmer weather.
• Spring is the perfect time to add colour to your outfits with leggings.
• Choose a pair of stylish sneakers to add a casual, sporty vibe to your outfit.

Summer

• Choose lightweight, breathable, cropped leggings to keep you cool and comfortable in hot weather.
• Pair leggings with a tank top or a sleeveless blouse to keep your outfit light and airy. Add a lightweight cardigan or a denim jacket to complete the look.
• Add sandals. Sandals are the perfect shoe to wear with leggings in the summer. Choose a pair of strappy sandals or slides to create a relaxed, effortless look.

Wear the best outfits with leggings

With a little creativity and confidence, you'll be sure to turn heads and inspire others with your fashion-forward legging outfits and leggings with dresses. If you started reading this blog without knowing what to wear with leggings, this guide would answer all those questions. So embrace your inner fashionista and enjoy exploring all the amazing outfit possibilities with leggings. You could browse Harris Scarfe's diverse range of women's clothing to find the perfect pieces for your wardrobe. For more fashion inspiration, don't forget to tune in to our Fashion Hub.