Why Every Wardrobe Needs Black Leggings – And How To Style Them
Often overlooked in the essentials department, black leggings are ready to fill the gap in your capsule wardrobe. From high-low tailoring to evening-ready looks, these are the styling tricks to know now
Some of this season’s key trends – from bold color to animal print – are undoubtedly fun to embrace. But as a rule of thumb, every well-curated wardrobe should contain seriously good staples to balance out statement pieces. In fact, if you’re currently struggling to put together outfits from your existing capsule closet, it’s probably due to a shortage of great basics. Think of it this way: even the world’s finest chefs would struggle to whip up a magnificent dish without a few fundamental ingredients on hand.
One key item your wardrobe might be missing is a pair of black leggings. The perfect base and a blank canvas for any look, leggings may be considered the epitome of ‘basic’, but they deserve to be treated like any other style investment. For maximum style mileage, they need to fit well and feel good, and should be crafted from soft fabrics that stretch comfortably without ever looking sheer. Keep reading to discover the latest pairs, along with three ways to wear black leggings in 2026.
Go for a high-low mix
On board with the idea of swapping out your black pants for leggings but still want to feel chic and polished? Look to Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, who nailed the high-low look in black stirrup leggings and an oversized camel coat. Consider Leset’s ‘Rio’ leggings, made from black stretch ponte fabric for a close yet comfortable fit, paired with Loewe’s wool- and silk-blend twill shirt and Jil Sander’s crinkled patent leather pumps. Slip Sportmax’s ‘Spxfate’ blazer on top to make the look office-appropriate.
Off-duty
The art of layering like a fashion influencer is much easier to grasp once you understand that it’s simply a balancing act. For example, figure-hugging black leggings work proportionally well with boxy outerwear and chunky boots. We love The Park’s ‘Josie’ leggings for effortless post-Pilates style. Just add Gucci’s large ‘Giglio’ tote bag and Saint Laurent Eyewear’s rectangle-frame sunglasses, then zip up Nour Hammour’s elevated barn jacket to take your look from the reformer studio to your favorite brunch spot.
Evening
Leggings are not just for the gym floor. In fact, in something of a role reversal, chef Laila Gohar recently revealed that she wears Simone Rocha shorts, socks, and Crocs to the gym. Meanwhile, tastemaker Sophia Roe styled leggings with a leather jacket and strappy sandals for Copenhagen Fashion Week. The Row’s ‘Woolworth’ style has an elasticated mid-rise waist and a length that lands just above the ankles, making them perfect for pairing with stilettos. Balance the second-skin silhouette with an oversized jacket, such as Khaite’s ‘Shelman’ style.
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