For the longest time, leggings are something I just had to begrudgingly accept as a workout necessity. I refused to spend any energy into choosing clothing I was only going to use to sweat in, and I predictably paid the price—poorly fitting, unflattering styles that I'd find myself constantly having to pull up. But then last year, my sister got me a pair of black leggings from H&M's sports collection, and I was amazed. The fit was absolute perfection, giving a smooth, very flattering silhouette—all without a hefty price tag. This discovery got me thinking—could black leggings belong in my out-of-the-gym outfit rotation?
Of course, I immediately started noticing that a lot of my favourite influencers were styling their black leggings in super sleek ways. There's the understated, minimalist look, where the leggings are used as a base for effortless layered looks with jumpers, shirts and floaty trench coats. Then there's the more polished take, á la Chrissy Ford, who's gone for a Parisian-inspired chic look with pointed ballet flats, figure-hugging black turtleneck and supremely elegant white blazer. There's no doubt, then, that this wardrobe basic doesn't just belong in the gym.
So then the question is, which pair to go for? Whether you're working with a high street budget or a designer one, looking for an athletic style or something more fashion-forward, I've found the best black leggings on the market. Scroll on to see my edit of the best pairs.
SHOP THE BEST BLACK LEGGINGS:
In my opinion, H&M has one of the best sportswear collections on the high street. These leggings hold their shape, are ultra soft and designed to move.
These look so flattering.
Definitely on the fashion rather than the active side of the legging spectrum, these are a minimalist's dream for layered looks.
So easy to dress up or down.
These scuba-stretch leggings will really sculpt your silhouette.
A great affordable option.
This pair perfect for out-of-the-gym styling.
Add a point of difference from your original leggings with the addition of a stirrup.
These leggings are a firm favourite for their brilliant fit that gives a sleek, svelte silhouette.
These leggings are designed for medium impact workouts, but would look equally chic styled with an oversized jumper and trainers for weekend strolls.
The shape is so flattering, and this pair gets bonus points for having a concealed inner waistband boning to give a smoothing effect.
These figure-hugging leggings are the exact pair I throw on for a weekend of running errands.
Upgrade your head-to-toe black look with these leather-effect leggings.
Leggings don't have to be a second skin fit—this flared pair look really chic, especially styled this way.
The slit-cuff makes these leggings perfect for pairing with heels.
Trust The Row to make the ultimate "quiet luxury" leggings.
This high street pair has been made from some seriously impressive high-tech fabric that is designed to keep warmth in,..
-
My In-Between-Season Wardrobe Is Getting a Little Boring—5 Legging-and-Boot Outfits I'm Hoping Will Change ThatPlenty of inspo ahead.
-
Hold the Black Leggings—Kendall and Hailey Just Said This Colour Is Much TrendierI'm with them.
-
I Thought I Was Over Leggings, But These 6 Outfits Are Making Them Feel Chic Again for 2025My life just got a whole lot comfier.
-
Black Leggings Will Never Date, But These 7 Elevated Colours Are Just As ChicFreshen up your palette.
-
No Trainers Needed—This Flat-Shoe Trend Makes Leggings Look So Much PrettierBranch out.
-
It’s Leggings-and-Flats Season—These Are the Combinations That Look the Chicest Right NowI've done the research.
-
Claudia Winkleman's Leggings on The Traitors Are the Exact Pair Our Editors Have Been Buying for YearsEveryone should know about these.
-
Move Over, Skinny Jeans, This "Dated" Trouser Trend Just Made an Unexpected Return for 2025It's got the A-list talking.
