Leggings can be a tricky article of clothing to style. But given how comfortable and cool they have the potential of being, we’d say that putting a little extra thought into your legging outfit is worth the effort, and that includes considering what not to wear with leggings.
At this point, given the fact that leggings became a wardrobe staple several years ago, we’ve grown accustomed to seeing celebrities out and about wearing them instead of pants. Celebs repeatedly set stylish examples of how to pull off leggings, and it all depends on what you wear them with. That said, to achieve the most forward look, there are some pieces you may want to skip when donning the athleisure staple.
BODYSUITS
If VPL is something you care about, you may want to avoid non-thong bodysuits. Instead, we love a short tank or tee paired with a jacket or sweater tied around the waist for a little extra coverage.
Photo:
AKM-GSI
On Gigi Hadid: Gentle Monster sunglasses; Vince tank; Sundry leggings; Versace bag
GOING-OUT TOPS
Although it’s true that leggings can be dressed up or down, they’re essentially an athleisure piece, making a fancy top a less-than-ideal choice. Instead, opt for an interesting outerwear piece, such as a windbreaker, utililty jacket, or leather jacket.
Photo:
AKM-GSI
On Diane Kruger: Levi’s jacket; Nike sneakers
HEELS AND FLIP-FLOPS
Leggings are best suited for flat shoes, as heels can look a bit dated with them. But that doesn’t mean you can only pair them with sneakers and flip-flops. Loafers, ballet flats, and flat ankle boots are all fail-safe options.
Photo:
AKM-GSI
On Elsa Hosk: Chanel bag; Victoria’s Secret Sport leggings
DRESSES OR SKIRTS
Dresses and skirts over leggings was the go-to look in the ’80s and again in the mid-2000s, it’s not one that you’ll see much of in 2020. This time around, if it’s coverage you’re seeking, a long, oversize sweater or sweatshirt is a much chicer look.
Photo:
Splash News
On Margot Robbie: Zoe Karssen jacket; Wildfox Couture sweater; Ugg Classic Short Boots ($170); Away The Carry-On Bag ($225)
GYM BAGS
This one may sound a bit odd, but there’s a reason celebrities never seem to carry a gym bag when they’re going to the gym—an actual handbag is perhaps the easiest way to make leggings streetwear-appropriate.
Photo:
Getty Images
On Jessica Alba: Victor & Rolf bag; Beyond Yoga leggings, Adidas x Stella McCartney sneakers
CROP TOPS
Truth be told, plenty of celebrities pair their leggings with crop tops and even sports bras. But on most occasions, they throw a longer jacket on over the crop top, adding a little modesty to the look. If that’s still outside of your comfort zone, skip the crop top and just wear the jacket zipped or buttoned up over a tank.
Photo:
Splash News
On Olivia Palermo: Le Specs sunglasses; Alo High Waist Airbrushed Leggings ($82); APL sneakers
EXCESSIVE BLING
Piles of jewelry and sporty leggings aren’t the best match, but if you feel naked without any jewelry, stick with subtle, delicate pieces.
Photo:
AKM-GSI
On Sara Sampaio: Victoria’s Secret Sport leggings
This post was originally published on an earlier date and has been updated.
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