Leggings seem to yo-yo in and out of favour within fashion circles, but in 2021, the chicest of dressers are revisiting black leggings. Tight-fitting trousers are rapidly regaining popularity, as many influencers and buyers are wearing skinny jeans and slim-fitting leggings—and not just with slippers for waist-up outfits for Zoom calls. The key to making them feel fresh is to play with proportions and contrast the tightness of the legs with oversized knitwear, huge boots and smart pieces you wouldn't typically expect to pair well with leggings.
Think of black leggings as your base layer. Then, add on either a pair of chunky tread-sole or hiking boots or elegant knee-high leather boots and pile on the expensive-looking knitwear, from zip-front jumpers to camel crew-necks. The key to making leggings look put-together in 2021 is to pay attention to the details. Finish off your outfit with a beautiful handbag, a statement chain necklace or even a pair of statement heels. Stop thinking about leggings as something you wear for weekends, but as an alternative to a smarter pair of black tailored trousers or jeans.
Keep scrolling to see how the fashion crowd is styling leggings in 2021.
1. Black Leggings + Black Sweatshirt + Nylon Bag
2. Leggings + Vinyl Trench + Over-the-Knee Boots
3. Leggings + Knee-High Boots + Camel Knitwear
4. Leggings + Track-Sole Boots + Clutch Bag
5. Leather Blazer + Leggings + Loafers
6. Leggings + Half-Tucked Shirt + Heels
7. Leggings + Sweatshirt + Sliders
8. Blazer + Leggings + Knee-High Boots
9. Leggings + Trench + New Balance Trainers
10. Boxy Blazer + Cropped Leggings + Flats
11. Stripe Knit + Split-Front Leggings + Strappy Heels
12. Leggings + Leather Bomber + Chunky Boots
13. Leggings + White Shirt + Loafers
This piece was published at an earlier date and has since been updated. Next up, see our guide to the key trends for autumn/winter 2021.