Leggings as Pants? This One Piece Makes It Doable
Leggings are the one item we can guarantee that you’ll find in any woman’s closet. Which is why we’re dedicated to finding the coolest styles, newest trends, and innovative ways to wear all your favorite pairs. From yoga class to travel and everything in between, leggings are our go-to piece to cozy up in (and still look cool doing it). And while we wish there were endless ways to wear them, the fact is that their body-hugging shape looks best when paired with some length for a necessary balance.
The one piece that makes wearing leggings alone totally doable? A long sweater or cardigan. The trick is to look for knits that are longer than the average, hitting about mid-thigh. Luckily, there are plenty of worthy options out there and we've sifted through them so that you can face the harsh winter that still lies ahead armed with this cozy outfit combo. Pair your sweater and leggings with a pair of sneakers or boots for the perfect laid-back look. Honestly, you may never want to wear your jeans again.
Go on to see how to wear long sweaters with leggings, and then shop the knits we love.
Swap your black jeans for a pair of leggings with this sweater and sneakers look. Retro sneakers are the perfect finishing touch for a comfy yet cool outfit.
Shop long sweaters for leggings:
Try a pair of pedal pusher leggings with a long duster jacket or sweater for an updated version of the classic legging look. The perfect balance of chic and comfortable, this cold-weather look is definitely one to copy.
Take a style tip from Gigi Hadid and try a long top under your long sweater with leggings and heeled boots for a comfortable outfit that doesn't look like you just came from the gym. Your new weekend errand running outfit, found.
Because polo neck sweaters are really trending at the moment.
Why not get the matching knit leggings while you're at it?
For a sporty cool approach, layer a hoodie underneath a longline jacket with leggings and sneakers (and don't forget tall socks for a retro feel).
Instead of layering a jacket over a sweater, try this knit cardigan that reads as a slouchy jacket.
Looks just as good with leather pants as it does with leggings.
Leggings and ankle boots are a tricky combo to pull off, but styled with a chunky knit and trench coat, it somehow works.
Re-create the above outfit formula with the help of this on-trend knit.
I can't resist anything with ribbed texture, and this cardigan is no exception.
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated. Up next, three fall sweater trends you should know before shopping.
Anna is an NYC-based senior fashion editor who has been a member of the Who What Wear team for over seven years, having begun her career in L.A. at brands like Michael Kors and A.L.C. As an editor, she has earned a reputation for her coverage of breaking trends, emerging brands, luxury shopping curations, fashion features, and more. Anna has penned a number Who What Wear cover interviews, including Megan Fox, Julia Garner, and Lilly Collins. She also leads the site’s emerging travel vertical that highlights all things travel and lifestyle through a fashion-person lens.
-
We're Fashion Editors—Everything We Saw, Wore, Did, and Ate During NYFW
Let's dive in.
By Anna LaPlaca
-
Kaia Gerber Just Turned This Once-Dated Trend Into the Coolest New Thing to Wear With Leggings
Noted.
By Allyson Payer
-
Sure, Black Leggings Are Timeless, But This Colored Alt Is Much More 2025
It's inspired by a rare gemstone.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Jenna Lyons's World: Her Go-To Red Lipstick, Her Latest Eyewear Collab, and the J.Crew Pieces She Still Wears Today
A true fashion icon.
By Judith Jones
-
No Offense to Sweatshirts, But This Elevated Basic Will Make Your Leggings Look Much Chicer
A French-girl favorite.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Not Into Trends? Renée Zellweger's Winter Outfit Combo Is 100% Classic
Just as you are.
By Drew Elovitz
-
I Own $400 Leggings, But This Under-$40 Pair Looks and Feels More Expensive
No, I'm not lying.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
6 Elevated Workout Outfits That Make Leggings Look Extremely Polished
For Pilates and beyond.
By Emma Spedding