The Ins and Outs of Leggings
With the right pair of leggings, you can truly have it all. They're comfortable, cute, and go with almost anything, whether it's a summery tee or a flannel shirt. However, there's one thing you usually can't have: pockets. But don't worry! The latest styles have been given an upgrade and now have places to stash your odds and ends, making leggings easier to wear than ever before. Just remember that old adage is true: leggings aren't pants! They can't be worn in the same way as slacks or women's jeans, but they can still look gorgeous.
More Than Meets The Eye
Skin-tight, ultra-thin leggings can reveal more than you wish if you don't wear them with a long top that covers your rear. But sport knit cotton has a little more heft, so your leggings won't reveal absolutely everything to the world. This revolutionary cotton material is cool and breathable on hot days, though a little Lycra makes it nice and stretchy. And of course, there are spacious front pockets for warming your hands or holding your possessions – you won't believe how convenient they are!
The Look of Denim
Denim leggings let you enjoy the best of both worlds. They have the slim, feminine fit of leggings, but the look and feel of your favorite skinny jeans. And you can even wear them with a top that stops at your waistline since they provide all the coverage you need. They also have all the pockets you could wish for! Slip your keys and a pack of gum in the front pockets and put your cell phone and wallet in the back ones – they can handle all the little things you need during the day.
A Comfortable Waist
The waist on many leggings can leave a lot to be desired. Usually, there's just a thin band of elastic that pinches your midsection, making feel like you're being cut in two. And if it's not sewn in well, it can twist around and your leggings will become uncomfortable to wear. The waist on sport knit leggings is sturdy though, and there are subtle pleats for added style – try slipping the front of your shirt inside of it for a classic French tuck.
Run, Jump and Play
You can even find super-slim activewear leggings and yoga pants with pockets these days! The latest styles often have a secret zippered pocket for things like your keys, ID, and credit card. Some leggings also include bigger pockets that can hold your cell phone too. This comes in really handy when you go for a run or to the gym. You can pop in a pair of wireless headphones, connect them to your phone, start your favorite podcast or playlist, and place your phone in your leggings’ pocket. This makes it so much easier for you to get things done when you’re working out. No one wants to be worried about dropping their phone, having to carry it around 24/7, or worse, accidentally leaving it at the gym. So a cell phone pocket on leggings is a must! That way, you can go for a run and still carry the essentials without having to bother with a purse or fanny pack. And it will make it easier to pay for that post-workout coffee at your favorite place by the park.
How to Style
Leggings can be worn dozens of different ways and go with almost any kind of women's shirt. When you're running errands and meeting a friend for lunch, try them with flats and a button-shirt. Any kind of tunic goes well with leggings and they also look lovely with a tee and a cardigan that goes down to your thighs or an open chambray shirt. Dark denim leggings can be dressed up by adding leather boots, a stylish top, and some long necklaces – finish your look with a leather motorcycle jacket and you'll be ready to hit the town.
As mentioned above, leggings are also great for workouts, hiking, and camping. Pair them with your favorite workout tee, tank, or sweatshirt. You’ll look great while not worrying about sweating.
Make Them Last
When you find leggings you love, you'll want to take great care of them so they last and last. First, try not to over-wash them – put them in the machine only when they need it. Turn them inside out before cleaning and set your machine on the cool cycle to protect the delicate Lycra fibers and use a mild, bleach-free detergent. Never subject them to the dryer and let them air dry while lying flat.
Also, once you find a pair of leggings you love (or many different types), buy several pairs of your favorites. Rotating them often will prevent washing one pair too often. This will help them last much longer.
Helpful Tips
To prevent VPL (visible panty line) when wearing leggings, look for no-show, seamless underpants. Consider having your leggings hemmed if they're super long and bunch around the ankles, or they won't look their best. Try to not mix printed leggings and patterned shirts, as too many things at once can overwhelm the eye. Also, make sure your shirt has a relaxed fit (roomy tunics are a great choice), as a super tight top paired with leggings can be too much.
No matter where or when you wear your leggings, they won’t let you down. With their comfy fit and their versatility, you might not ever want another pair of bottoms again–just leggings.