The leggings evolution ‒ and how to wear them properly

Let me begin by saying that I’m not a huge fan of leggings ‒ mostly because women don’t know how to wear them, because it’s a piece that was originally intended for fitness trainings, workouts or walks in the woods, however,  they quickly became a substitute for tracksuit pants, even though many have forgotten they are basically just thickly woven pantyhose without the feet part. So keep in mind that no pair of leggings work well with an exposed behind or when they’re so thinly woven that the tan of your skin shines through them. The only exception are the new generation leggings that come with pockets and look like super skinny pants: you can wear these with a shorter top, but this look requires a flawless body with a perfectly flat stomach. And yet it seems like leggings have enchanted all women: rocker chicks, comfort seekers, curvy or lanky, romantics and women of all ages in general. The fact is you can style them in different ways, with anything from ballet flats to army boots, from high heels to slip on sandals. This versatility can however quickly turn into a serious style misshap, so you should follow these five rules.

Image source: Calzedonia

Leggings should not be see through

I don’t suppose you find it interesting to see a female behind or underwear while you’re buying groceries at the market. Some things are meant to be seen by your partner only, and not the general public even if you do have the best looking, firmest behind in the world.

Leggings require a covered behind, without the slightest doubt

Leggings should not become pantyhose

Meaning, you shouldn’t wear them instead of cashmere pantyhose, even if there’s 10 metres of snow outside.

Image source: Pinterest

Image source: Calzedonia

Do not wear leggings with socks

This includes nylon socks and there are no exceptions: even if you think no one can see them, you’re wrong, especially the nude knee highs that should just be banned all together.

Leggings are not appropriate business attire

This goes mostly for the basic cotton versions, because eco leather is an entirely different story. Keep in mind that leggings give out an off duty, leisure wear vibe, so there are limits, and it’s best not to cross them.

Image source: Pinterest

Image source: Calzedonia

If you have a fuller figure, you’ll need leggings that provide sufficient coverage for any flaws, and enough elasticity. The fabric should be dense, otherwise they’ll become translucent and inappropriate for public outings. It’s best to focus on darker colours; the lighter ones are suitable for slender long legged women, they’re mostly wearable in the summer and not even then for every occasion. Try to avoid intensive colours as a general rule: light pink, cream, brown and white, the rest are not a good choice. Faux leather models are quite nice, because they give the appearance of trousers, the only downside is that the skin underneath it doesn’t breathe, and you won’t feel too comfortable in them after a big meal. Wear leggings with longer tops, from T-shirts to sweaters; the footwear can be flat (which also looks best), and if you prefer heels, mind the quality of the leggings (in the way of evening wear ‒ there are many such models: with metallic studs, lace, glitter or other additions, prints), but do stay away from platform shoes, because they make the proportions and whole look seem fetishist and that’s something to avoid.

Image source: Calzedonia