I Haven't Worn Leggings for 23 Years, But Now I'm Converted
Leggings are beloved by 4-year-olds, but by me, a grown woman? I've always been on the fence. As a child, I'd reluctantly be clad in floral leggings with what would prove to be my outfit's sartorial saving grace: an oversized terra-cotta T-shirt with Princess Jasmine and her tiger sidekick emblazoned on the front. Oh, how I loved that tee but oh, how I hated those leggings.
Fast-forward to the mid-2000s when I decided to sport a pair in fetching neon-blue leggings to attend an '80s-themed party. This proved to be a sensible colour choice as I'd proceed to spill my teenage tipple of choice (a WKD drink) all down myself not long into the evening.
Aside from when I actually make it across the gym threshold, this was the extent of my legging-wearing ways. At least it was until I was recently persuaded otherwise. This time, my mother had nothing to do with it. Instead, it's the women I continually look to for fashion inspiration who are making me reconsider leggings. Scroll down and you'll see why.
From off-duty cool to after-dark options, these ladies prove that leggings aren't just for the occasional (read: rarer than a lunar eclipse) spin class, nor should they be reserved for long-haul flights, either. Comfortable and—dare I say it—chic, these are the autumn leggings outfits I'm fully committing to.
POLISHED COMFORT
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By coordinating a pair of patent heels to your top, you instantly pull your look together. Just add statement jewels and your leggings are instantly after-dark appropriate.
This knit will also look the autumnal part with a leather miniskirt and black opaques.
Is there an easier way to finish off a look than with statement gold earrings? We think not.
Split-hem leggings always look flattering on all frames.
We challenge you to find a sexier pair of kitten heels.
CAMO COOL
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Whether you're hitting the shops or the shakshuka, add a camouflage jacket and white kicks to your trusty leggings for the perfect off-duty ensemble.
Give any outfit an edgy overhaul with a camo cover-up.
Khaki always makes for a cool alternative to black leggings.
Tinted sunnies are ideal for nailing autumn's relaxed '70s trend.
Reeboks are poised to make a huge comeback this season.
PLAY DRESS UP
Take your favourite, split-front dress and sling it over your leggings. Not only will it keep the winter chill at bay, but it'll also stop any undesired flashing from occurring.
Try layering a wrap dress over vintage-wash jeans, too.
If you're wearing leggings after dark, ensure they're seamless for a glossy spin.
This bougie bag is the ultimate outfit overhauler.
Classic shoes for £25? In that case, we'll take them in burgundy as well.
MONOCHROMATIC MAGIC
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Christian Vierig/Getty Images
A monochromatic outfit always looks sleek. Wear a black-and-white pair of leggings with a sharp blazer and a tee for It-girl kudos.
Invest now and we guarantee you'll wear this tailored blazer for years to come.
This gold-link necklace looks so much more expensive than just a few quid.
The leather side panel on these strides is super luxe.
Mules they may be, but the closed toe makes these white heels more autumn-friendly.
GO TONAL
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Edward Berthelot/Getty Images
Tonal dressing is key for autumn. Layer your leggings under a skirt or dress, and then finish with a coat of the same colour. We love how you can only see a sliver of the leggings in this street style getup.
One of the many camel coats we currently have our eye on.
As far as shirtdresses go, this is easily the chicest one we've seen.
Add a cool texture clash to your look with these faux-suede leggings.
Mock-croc accessories always make your outfits look premium.
Overcome your leggings phobia? Now let's crack the poncho.