If a Fashion Person Wears Leggings in 2024, It'll Be With These Elevated Basics
If anyone knows just how quickly the trend cycle churns, it's us fashion editors. One minute, cargo pants are everywhere; the next it's low-rise jeans, and these days, the fashion set and skinny jeans exist in a perpetual state of "Will they? Won't they?" A classic pair of leggings, however, is an evergreen constant, and no matter what state the rest of the trend cycle is in, it's the one thing a fashion person is always sure to have in her closet and in rotation.
It makes sense that the versatile style never loses its fan base. When you think about it, there are just so many ways to style leggings. Whether part of an athleisure getup for a coffee run and errands à la Kendall Jenner in ALO or elevated with a blazer and heels for the office or a night out (whoever said leggings weren't pants was very wrong), the outfit potential is virtually endless. To keep things simple, though, for those of you looking for a little legging style inspiration, these eight outfit combinations are the place to start.
OVERSIZE SWEATSHIRT + NEW BALANCE SNEAKERS
It's impossible to go wrong with an oversize sweatshirt and leggings. Try a monochromatic pairing to keep the look elevated. Then, add a pair of New Balances, fashion's favorite It sneaker.
The pop of forest green adds a little something extra to your outfit.
TURTLENECK + STRUCTURED BLAZER
You can totally wear leggings to the office when done right. For instance, with a turtleneck and crisp blazer.
Sweat-wicking, sun protection, four-way stretch. These leggings have all the bells and whistles in the event you plan on taking them to the gym, too.
HIGH-NECK JACKET + PLATFORM BOOTS
A classic black jacket or sweater easily becomes a statement when it comes with an ultra-high neck and a bold zipper. Add chunky platform boots, and suddenly, your casual outfit isn't so casual anymore.
The oval sunglasses make the outfit. Just don't forget the sleek braid.
This is how you dress up leggings (and this platform is actually sure to be comfortable and easy to walk in).
SPORTS BRA + HOODIE
Kendall Jenner takes what's dubbed the "Range Rover mom" approach to styling leggings. A triangle sports bra and zip-up hoodie in classic tones is all the look calls for.
These have a bit of sheen to them that lends a dressed-up feel, plus sculpt and lift in all the right places.
FAIR ISLE SWEATER + BLAZER
Leggings with Fair Isle sweaters is a winter styling tip many fashion people are in on. Add a blazer to the equation and you're ready for most any occasion.
I know we're talking leggings, but honestly, what can't you style this sweater with?
NYLON JACKET + PUMPS
Trying out the stirrup legging trend is expert styling territory in and of itself, but add in the unexpected pairing of a nylon jacket and pumps, and you'll be rivaling the wardrobe of off-duty models.
We see why Hailey Bieber loves these with jersey fabric that molds to your shape and zip pockets.
The sculptural heel on these makes them a particularly fashion-forward choice.
MIDI DRESS + FLATS
Leggings with a dress? The answer is yes. Go for a polished style in a neutral tone and dainty flats to finish off the look.
TUXEDO BLAZER + WHITE PUMPS
Leggings for a formal event? This look manages the nearly impossible!
A tuxedo blazer is the type of wardrobe investment you'll lean on for years to come.
-
Katie Holmes Made This Outdated Leggings-and-Boots Outfit Feel Just Right for 2025
A combo I will live in.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Law Roach's World: His New Book, Bag of Choice, and What He Grabs on a Target Run
"[Styling] has made my world so much bigger."
By Jasmine Fox-Suliaman
-
Chrissy Teigen Just Made This Outdated Legging-and-Boot Outfit Feel 2025 Ready
I'm influenced.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
I'm in My 20s—Here Are 6 Style Lessons I Learned to Look More Polished and Grown-Up
Sophisticated styling 101.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
8 Copenhagen Street Style Trends I Plan to Replicate in New York
Pared back yet never boring.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Hailey Bieber Just Wore the Heel Trend That Makes Leggings Look So Classy
See for yourself.
By Allyson Payer
-
Sophie Turner's Two-Piece Airport Look Proves That She's a Travel Pro
She gets it.
By Eliza Huber
-
I'm a Fashion Editor—I Reach For These 2 Pieces When I Don't Know What to Wear
Ready in 10 minutes or less.
By Jennifer Camp Forbes