The Easy Way To Make Leggings Look So Luxe This Fall

Stretch pants, leggings, pants — call them what you will, but uber-tight, second-skin pants are better than your average basic in 2020. Brands and influencers alike are sporting the stretchy wardrobe must-have in myriad of ways ranging from the everyday athleisure look to fashion-forward combinations that play on proportion, color, and texture without sacrificing comfort. And this year, insiders are showing how to wear leggings by pairing them with couture-level suiting, structured top coats, over-sized blazers, and printed puffers alike.

But more than just how they are styled, it's the legging itself that's also evolving. The classic, glossy-finished black athletic legging still very much has its place in your 2020 wardrobe rotation. Only this time, look for details like stirrups as seen in the ethereal Jacquemus Fall 2020 collection. Fabrications like matte jersey, velvet, or even thin knits are here to sub out sweatpants, jeans, or tailored trousers for the street style set. Edgier takes on leggings include Balmain's nod to mid-90s colorblocking with bold, high-waisted, elongated and richly saturated stretch pants that give the illusion of a Grace Jones-approved catsuit. Leather leggings are having a major moment, thanks in no small part to their ability to instantly elevate damn near whatever you don, from a roomy overcoat to a fitted monochromatic outfit.

And let's not forget to chart the rise of the ostentatious legging featuring in-your-face prints a la Versace or pattern combinations in the spirit of Moncler. There's a little something for everyone when it comes to how to wear leggings in 2020, so keep scrolling for the best legging outfit ideas to embrace this year and beyond.

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How To Wear Leggings In 2020: Jersey Leggings

If you're going for statement details like an oversized collar and lug-sole boots, leggings are the perfect bottom to balance everything out. Consider keeping your accessory on the minimal side and opt for a structured bag and sleek sunnies.

How To Wear Leggings In 2020: Trouser Leggings

Nothing adds a little edge quicker than the sheen of patent leather. Keep your separates monochromatic and a sleek, structured top coat and soft knits will look ready for the night life when you introduce a iteration that feels more like a trouser than a legging. Lighten things up by opting for shades of creams or blush pink.

How To Wear Leggings In 2020: Velvet Leggings

Menswear-inspired blazers with roomy cuts and exaggerated shoulders provide the ideal contrast to textured, slinky leggings — especially of the velvet variety. Play with shapes and let business vibes mingle with a sumptuous set of leggings that feel more evening-appropriate. And don't forget richly embellished heels for after hours.

How To Wear Leggings In 2020: Stirrup Leggings

Isabel Marant, Paco Rabanne, and Saint Laurent were among many luxury names to welcome stirrup leggings into the mix for the new year. The refined alternative to skinny jeans feels fresh with stirrup details and offers an approachable throwback appeal to moto-style jackets and classic blazers. Look for warm shades like camel and burgundy in addition to the essential black stirrup styles.

How To Wear Leggings In 2020: Athletic Leggings

Making your everyday pair of workout leggings work beyond the gym is surprisingly less complicated than you think; couple them with knee-high boots and professional staples like a blazer. Finish off by accessorizing with a gold belt and bright furry bag.

How To Wear Leggings In 2020: Color-Blocked Leggings

Your go-to cardigan and denim outfit could probably use a comfy update, so try occasionally swapping out your jeans for leggings. Yes, your favorite sporty color-blocked leggings can be worn with all your cold weather staples. Add on trendy cowboy boots and simple gold jewelry and you're set.

How To Wear Leggings In 2020: Faux-Leather Leggings

Lean into the legging look with an essential pair of fitted faux leather leggings. This closet staple will make you feel that much more polished for nights out or running errands. Opt for tried-and-true brands that offer added support and sculpting benefits.

How To Wear Leggings In 2020: Matte Stretch Leggings

There's no harm in loving the automatic athletic look of soft stretch pants and nothing conveys that sporty message quite like the addition of thick knit white tube socks. Throw on a sporty zip-up jacket and bring in a luxury handbag to keep the ensemble elevated.

How To Wear Leggings In 2020: Printed Leggings

Even your inner wild child can get in on this trend for 2020 courtesy of an array of loud-and-proud leggings that boast bold prints and combination patterns. Oversized, treated denim coats, jackets, or light layers are the way to keep this head-turning look wearable.

How To Wear Leggings In 2020: Ribbed Leggings

All leggings are comfy, but if you're looking for a pair that doubles as pajamas, opt for ribbed. Consider pairing Oyun's Ribbed Leggings with the brand's Henley Tunic Sweater (shown above) for a cozy at-home ensemble. And if you want to dress them up for the weekend, add on a sleek wool coat and cool chunky boots.

This story was originally published on Feb. 20, 2020.