We like to think that leggings are so deeply loved partly because of how versatile they are. Leggings, when styled correctly, can work for almost every occasion. Similarly, leggings can also be worn during every season, making them a year-round love affair. Comfortable, cozy, and cute, leggings are truly a wardrobe blessing.
It’s pretty easy to imagine how to dress down your leggings. Put them on with your favorite oversized T-shirt and wooly socks, and get horizontal with a good book and a cup of tea. But how can you dress them up? Amazingly, a clothing item that’s so easy to lounge around in is just as easy to wear at an upscale event. While it doesn’t sound like the most regal of outfit choices, wearing leggings to an event actually comes with its distinctive perks.
First, wearing leggings is the ultimate comfort choice without compromising on style. Second, leggings are versatile and can be paired with just about anything depending on your own personal taste. Third, easy-on and easy-off. No hassles getting dressed and undressed with leggings. Truly, we could go on… but now that we have you convinced to wear leggings outside of the house, read on for our style guide about how to properly dress up a comfy pair of leggings to wear to an event.
Not all leggings are created equal. While a pair of women’s yoga pants may be best for your morning workout routine, another pair is going to be most ideal for going out. Opt for neutral-colored leggings, ideally black, as darker colors tend to be dressier and are also easier to pair with other elements of your outfit. Steer clear of wild prints and colors, which may be great to wear on a coffee date with a friend, but aren’t the best choice for a more formal event. Wear a pair of opaque solid leggings that are in good condition and haven’t faded. Just because your leggings are black doesn’t mean that they’re not see-through! Be sure to check before committing to a pair of leggings to avoid any embarrassment later on. Ideally, it’s best to choose a longer legging, as the length will give the appearance of longer legs.
Nothing dresses up a pair of leggings like a pair of saucy heels. Wear black leggings with a brightly colored pair of pumps for some pop and fashionable contract. Alternatively, rock your leggings with boots. We love a calf-high leather heeled boot that helps accentuate the silhouette of the legs. Go the extra mile and wear a pair of faux leather black leggings for some extra shape and sheen that will give your events outfit a little je ne sais quoi. If heels just aren’t your cup of tea, no problem. Wear your leggings with a pair of flat boots or fancy slip-on flats. Try flat knee-high leather boots for an added flair.
Wear leggings instead of tights under a dress for more comfort and less stressing about running tights. We love the look of leggings under a fit-and-flare dress. The fit and cut of this dress style work perfectly with the coverage and fit of a good pair of leggings. Wear black leggings with a brightly colored fit-and-flare dress and matching heels for an adorable yet dressy ensemble perfect for an event. Most styles look great with leggings, so try on a few to find the perfect match.
Blazers can be added to almost any outfit for an easy dress-up shortcut. Choose a well-cut, well-fitting blazer for a dressier effect. Wear black faux leather leggings with a pair of bright heels and a long button-up women’s tunic top, and a chic blazer, and voila! You have an effortless and stylish way to wear your leggings to an event.
This same outfit can be worn by exchanging a tunic top for a long button-up women’s blouse. We love the look of a silver silk long button-up blouse that contrasts nicely with black leggings.
Perfect for fall or winter events, a sweater dress over a pair of leggings is the ultimate chic and cozy look. We love this outfit worn with a pair of suede heeled ankle booties or knee-high zip leather boots. You will be feeling fuzzy and fabulous all night long.
The right accessories are decidedly the icing on the cake when it comes to dressing up for a night out. Choose bold jewelry to brighten your outfit and contrast nicely with the simplicity of the leggings. Wear a thick belt over a long tunic top to cinch the waist and accentuate your curves. Pulling in the looseness of a tunic top will help dress up the leggings and entire outfit. Add an extra pop by wear some bright red lipstick to really brighten the whole outfit.
Look and feel amazing to all your upcoming events by trying out and getting creative with some of our fun style tips on how to dress up your leggings.