Leggings are beloved by 4-year-olds, but by me, a grown woman? I've always been on the fence. As a child, I'd reluctantly be clad in floral leggings with what would prove to be my outfit's sartorial saving grace: an oversized terra-cotta T-shirt with Princess Jasmine and her tiger sidekick emblazoned on the front. Oh, how I loved that tee but oh, how I hated those leggings.
Fast-forward to the mid-2000s when I decided to sport a pair in fetching neon-blue to attend an '80s-themed party. This proved to be a sensible colour choice as I'd proceed to spill my teenage tipple of choice (a WKD drink) all down myself not long into the evening.
Aside from when I actually make it across the gym threshold, this was the extent of my legging-wearing ways. At least it was until I was recently persuaded otherwise. This time, my mother had nothing to do with it. Instead, it's the women I continually look to for fashion inspiration who are making me reconsider leggings.
From off-duty cool to after-dark options, these ladies prove that leggings aren't just for the occasional (read: rarer than a lunar eclipse) spin class, nor should they be reserved for long-haul flights, either. Comfortable and—dare I say it—chic, these are the autumn leggings outfits I'm fully committing to. And I've finally discovered the secret to keeping them that way: black leggings are always best.
5 Chic Autumn Leggings Outfits To Copy
1. Stirrup Leggings + Relaxed Blazer + Heels
Style Notes: If you thought stirrup leggings were best left in the '80s, think again. London-based Marilyn shows the city way to wear them––think an expensive-looking, good-quality blazer, polished accessories and heels to hook them over.
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These look best with heels or ballet flats.
You'll never get bored of a heritage blazer.
The stirrup leggings will keep your kitten heels in place.
Sunnies complete an outfit, no matter the weather forecast.
2. Split Hem Leggings + Leather Jacket + Trainers
Style Notes: The likes of Victoria Beckham and Hailey Bieber have backed split hem leggings over the years, and they're still going strong for 2024. Make like Harriet and team with a classic biker jacket and chunky trainers.
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The Frankie Shop has already approved the split hem leggings.
Allsaints is known for its brilliant leather.
Chunky trainers will always be relevant.
Mango has some of the most impressive shades on the high street.
3. Leggings + Chunky Knit + Trainers
Style Notes: Sticking to the athleisure vibe, Dawn tries out the colour of the season by adding a khaki knit, socks and trainers to classic black leggings. And I will be copying this outfit on every WFH day.
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So cosy for when the weather gets cooler.
For yoga or just running errands, they're a forever favourite.
Everything khaki is getting a firm yes this year.
Go full tonal with matching socks.
4. Leggings + Striped Top + Trench Coat
Style Notes: Minimalist Jess knows how to put a wear-forever formula together. Here, she completes her leggings outfits with a timeless striped top, trench and trainers along with the accessory of the year: a squishy suede bag.
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These come in petite, regular and long lengths.
All about that chic neckline.
It also comes in black.
The dream tote.
5. Lace Leggings + Blazer + Heels
Style Notes: Proving that you can indeed wear leggings for after-dark, Cassandra switches out classic pairs in favour of an all-over lace style. The trick to keep them classy is to wear with an oversized blazer, fuss-free heels and premium accessories to keep the look put-together.
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Because the sheer trend is sticking around for the duration.
A classic.
The pink version sold out so quickly.
Hoops will always be the finishing touch to any outfit.
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