Leggings are the one item we can guarantee that you’ll find in any woman’s closet. Which is why we’re dedicated to finding the coolest styles, newest trends, and innovative ways to wear all your favorite pairs. From yoga class to travel and everything in between, leggings are our go-to piece to cozy up in (and still look cool doing it). And while we wish there were endless ways to wear them, the fact is that their body-hugging shape looks best when paired with some length for a necessary balance.
The one piece that makes wearing leggings alone totally doable? A long sweater or cardigan. The trick is to look for knits that are longer than the average, hitting about mid-thigh. Luckily, there are plenty of worthy options out there and we've sifted through them so that you can face the harsh winter that still lies ahead armed with this cozy outfit combo. Pair your sweater and leggings with a pair of sneakers or boots for the perfect laid-back look. Honestly, you may never want to wear your jeans again.
Go on to see how to wear long sweaters with leggings, and then shop the knits we love.
Swap your black jeans for a pair of leggings with this sweater and sneakers look. Retro sneakers are the perfect finishing touch for a comfy yet cool outfit.
Shop long sweaters for leggings:
This slouchy pick looks ultra-cozy.
For an ultra-chic legging look.
Pair with leggings and chunky boots for an on-trend look.
Not your Grandpa's cardigan.
Try a pair of pedal pusher leggings with a long duster jacket or sweater for an updated version of the classic legging look. The perfect balance of chic and comfortable, this cold-weather look is definitely one to copy.
Did I just find the perfect lounging-at-home sweater?
The belted shape helps this look especially polished.
Everything looks better in camel.
This will create a super-sleek look with leggings.
Take a style tip from Gigi Hadid and try a long top under your long sweater with leggings and heeled boots for a comfortable outfit that doesn't look like you just came from the gym. Your new weekend errand running outfit, found.
We needed to include an animal print option, obviously.
Because polo neck sweaters are really trending at the moment.
Why not get the matching knit leggings while you're at it?
For a sporty cool approach, layer a hoodie underneath a longline jacket with leggings and sneakers (and don't forget tall socks for a retro feel).
Perfect for post-workouts.
Instead of layering a jacket over a sweater, try this knit cardigan that reads as a slouchy jacket.
Looks just as good with leather pants as it does with leggings.
Who could resist this fun tie-dye pullover?
Leggings and ankle boots are a tricky combo to pull off, but styled with a chunky knit and trench coat, it somehow works.
Re-create the above outfit formula with the help of this on-trend knit.
A long turtleneck is so necessary to survive the winter.
I can't resist anything with ribbed texture, and this cardigan is no exception.
Anything in this color is automatically cooler.
This post was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated. Up next, three fall sweater trends you should know before shopping.
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Don't Pack Up Your Sweaters Just Yet—Cool Fashion People Are Repurposing Them in the Chicest Way for SummerAll the outfit inspiration is inside.
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Put a Hold on Your Black Leggings—This Fresh Color Trend Is the One You'll See Everywhere This SummerThe "just right" shade that feels fresh and elegant for 2025.
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Hold the Sneakers: *This* Is the Stylish Shoe Trend Fashion People Are Wearing With Leggings to PilatesKendall Jenner is leading the way.
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No One Will Wear This New Legging Trend With Sneakers—Just HeelsIncluding Hailey Bieber, apparently.
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Step Away From the Black Leggings—This Is the Low-Key Legging Color Trend You'll See Everywhere This SummerJennifer Lopez approves.
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Goodbye, Boring Basics—This Is the Elegant Trend New Yorkers Are Wearing With Tank Tops This SummerObsessed.
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It's Settled: This Is the #1 Sneaker Trend to Wear With Leggings This SummerConfirmed by Dakota Johnson.
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3 Aesthetic Pairings to Try If Your Wardrobe's Starting to Feel StaleFoolproof solutions.
