By Britney Stevens
A runway look from Diane Von Furstenberg
A legging look from JCPenney
As resolutions of giving up and taking in are still in full swing this time of year, it’s time to bid farewell to a long-standing member of every woman’s underwear drawer: nude pantyhose and spray-on looks. Leggings have moved back in and are again must-have essentials to complete almost every outfit.
If you think you’re either too old, too round, or too conservative to move from jeans to…spandex…then think again. The benefits of perfectly fitting bottoms can be had by all, so long as you know how to make them work for you.
Another Diane Von Furstenberg look from MORE magazine
Ankle-length leggings look carefree and effortless with flora skirts, layered dresses, and long tunics belted at the waist. Knee-length leggings with a lace trim are perfect with thigh-high floral skirts and ankle boots. But don’t let my opinion confine you; let loose and play around with girly skirts and dresses without the fear of getting caught in the wind or freezing on the way to work.
And remember: Leggings are meant to accessorize your outfit, not to be the main focus. As such, make sure your tops are long enough to cover your rear and short enough to let them flatter your outfit.
A Burberry styling from MORE magazine
And never, I repeat never, mistake sheer spandex leggings for pants. They are not. If you want to use leggings in place of pants, make sure they are denim jeggings or some sort of heavy knit, like ponte. No one wants to see you commit this fashion faux-pas. Literally.
Easy style anyone can try, from J. Jill
Hop Tip: When wearing leggings, pair them with a top or bottom that hits the skinniest part of your lower-half. If your hips are wide, wear a skirt, dress, or long shirt that falls just below them. If your legs are skinnier further down your thigh, wear a high-waisted, mid-thigh skirt. This way, you’re flattering your body type without sacrificing style.
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