For years, the debate about leggings has divided the fashion world, but with so many designs and styles to shop, it’s time to once and for all accept that they are a here-to-stay wardrobe staple no longer solely reserved for the gym.
For quite a few seasons now, the runways have proved just how elegant a pair of leggings can be, especially when they are crafted with thoughtful details and styled with sophisticated finishing touches. The Chloé resort 2025 collection demonstrated the sleek ease the closet staple brings to any outfit (including trendy boho outfits) with a ribbed knit pair. In a similar manner, Saint Laurent exhibited the refined sense of ease cashmere leggings can add to any outfit by styling them into a runway-worthy look. It’s those subtle details that instantly take the classic from a boring basic to a chic essential.
If you’re curious to discover a few refreshing ways to upgrade your legging collection, read on for all of the chic details.
Look for Elevated Details
Tiny little details will make all the difference on your journey to elevate your legging collection. Something as simple as a slit at the hem instantly takes the casual pant up a notch. Invest in Toteme’s viral zip leggings for everyday elegance, or enhance your Lululemon collection with the brand’s front-slit design.
Favorite Daughter The Suits You Split Hem Leggings
Toteme Zip High-Rise Leggings
lululemon Stretch Knit High-Rise Pull-On Pants Regular
The Frankie Shop Reya ribbed stretch-jersey flared leggings
Look for Sophisticated Silhouettes
I know these might look like your average pair of trousers at first glance, but zoom in, and you’ll see it’s a continuation of the famous leggings Wardrobe.NYC has become known for. The upgraded design comes courtesy of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s chic touch. Made from the same stretchy ponte fabric, with an elasticated waistband, they’re comfy enough to wear on long flights, while the voluminous hem makes them polished enough for the office. Find plenty of other brands creating leggings that look like trousers, below.
Commando Neoprene Flare Legging
Spanx Flare Ponte Pants
Wardrobe.NYC Flared Pants
Mango Flare Leggings
Look for Luxe Fabrics
Look beyond stretchy spandex to elevate your legging collection. Here, Jasmine Tookes wears the cashmere design shown on Saint Laurent’s runway. The fun doesn’t stop there; you can test drive luxurious virgin wool or leather-coated designs and elevate the entire look with more sumptuous materials like a silk top or a fancy fluffy coat.
Saint Laurent Cashmere Leggings
Naked Cashmere Tulsa Ribbed Leggings
The Row Moto Leather Leggings
Loro Piana Dream Wool-Blend Leggings
Look for Stirrup Straps
When in doubt, nothing beats a classic. Stirrup leggings have been around since the 1920s when they were first worn by equestrians. Like any fashion trend, they’ve had their moment in and out of the spotlight, peaking during the late ’80s and early ’90s with the obsession with neon-colored lycra. In 2025, the most sophisticated shoppers are anchoring their comfort-first looks with a reserve of jet-black options to wear on repeat.
Stirrup Leggings
Frame The Jetset Stirrup
Tibi Compact Ultra Stretch Knit Stirrup Leggings
Splits59 River High-Rise Stirrup Leggings
