I Wear Simple Leggings for Going Out—5 Outfits I'm Trying Next
It’s official. Designers have ordained leggings past the gym, past the couch, and even past your daytime athleisure. The runway looks featuring leggings this season were proof enough, and they were also brimming with ideas on how to style up.
Simple black leggings are a closet staple, yet you may be used to wearing them with a cozy hoodie, an oversize knit, or a matching workout top. I’m here to tell you that those same leggings can go to dinner, drinks, and more. Just ask Hailey Bieber.
Celebrities aren’t the only ones capitalizing on this opportunity for comfort. I’ve been spotting it on social media recently and have pulled my favorite looks for inspiration. Below are five potential outfits I’m trying to take my leggings to the next level.
Metallic Top + Bright Mules
A shiny party top can immediately spice up a pair of black leggings. Pile on the accessories, from diamanté earrings to flashy heels.
Bomber Jacket + Ballet Flats
Keep it neutral with a puffy bomber jacket and classy flats. And of course, a sporty pair of shades never hurt a look.
Boxy Blazer + Over-the-Knee Boots
Over-the-knee boots are a genius way to incorporate leggings without making the look feel casual. Pop on a crisp blazer and luxurious handbag for immediate sophistication.
Scarf Top + Neon Pumps
For warmer weather, style a bold scarf top with split-front leggings. Match your bright, pointy-toe pumps because why not?
Fuzzy Coat + Heeled Boots
Opt for a sleek, black bottom layer and toss on an opulent faux-fur coat. Keep the accessories simple but elevated.
Next: The Nontraditional Legging Trend That's Increasing in Popularity
Copelyn is a freelance fashion and accessory editor. She formerly worked for Who What Wear as an associate shopping editor and is based in New York City. She writes about fashion and accessory trends in addition to creating original content. Before her time at Who What Wear, Copelyn was at Bustle Digital Group, working on the accessory market for cover shoots and fashion features across Nylon, The Zoe Report, Bustle, Romper, and Elite Daily. Copelyn also previously worked at InStyle and Cosmopolitan in the fashion and accessory departments on shopping and fashion market. Copelyn has a journalism degree from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. In her spare time, Copelyn freelances in graphic and web design in the fashion-and-lifestyle space. She also loves to upcycle clothing and home décor as well as collect an embarrassing number of colorful sneakers and experiment with her hair color.
-
As It Turns Out, 2025's Most Boring Flat-Shoe Trend Looks Perfect With Leggings
A celebrity-approved pairing.
By Allyson Payer
-
No Sneakers Needed—This Flat Shoe Trend Makes Leggings Look So Much Prettier
Branch out.
By Allyson Payer
-
If a Fashion Person Wears Leggings in 2025, It'll Be With These Shoe Trends
These winning shoes make total sense.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
The Chicest People I Know Are Wearing This Surprisingly Elevated Legging Trend
I'm not here to argue.
By Natalie Cantell
-
Emma Chamberlain's World: Her Warby Parker Collab, Two-Phone Rule, and Spiciest Fashion Takes
"I just want to bring the most joy to people."
By Anna LaPlaca
-
4 Anti-Trend Outfits I Spot Every Time I'm in Europe
Classic looks that are always in style.
By Natalie Cantell
-
3 Non-Holiday Ways to Wear Velvet This Winter
You're welcome.
By Eliza Huber
-
Hailey Bieber Just Used the TikTok Styling Hack That Will Actually Go the Distance
I'm going to use it this weekend.
By Nikki Chwatt