I Live in Leggings—7 Fresh Ways I'm Wearing Them This Winter

Let's admit it—we've probably spent more time than we care to admit in leggings and a pair of Havaianas this summer, or maybe you wear yours with a logo tee and a pair of Crocs for an easy weekend look. It can't always be frocks and strappy sandals after all right?

Winter is almost here, and it's time to mix it up. A new season is approaching and with it, new styling tricks. Wave goodbye to your lazy girl dressing and please give a warm welcome to our step-by-step guide on how to elevate your leggings for every possible occasion—from coffee runs and dinner dates to weekend errands and work meetings. 

Long gone are the days that leggings were confined to the gym or for lounging about on the sofa (albeit we'll give you a pass to wear them on either of those occasions, too!). A new legging era has dawned, and we are here for it.

Like what you hear? Scroll on to discover how to turn those basic leggings into outfits even the coolest of girls will envy. Sofa lounging and overly consistent watching of Netflix is still absolutely encouraged, of course.

1. The Tonal Colour Outfit

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(Image credit: @chrissyford)

Style Notes: When you want to zhuzh up your look, step away from classic black and introduce a colour into the mix. Head-to-toe tonal is a failsafe way to pull a outfit together, we are obsessed.

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2. The Bold Jacket Outfit

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(Image credit: @hannahlewisstylist)

Style Notes: Leggings can be styled for both day and night. Just pair them with a kitten heel and blazer or smart jacket and you're good to go. Top tip, make like Hannah and have something that'll cinch in your waist to define your shape if you're choosing a baggier fit jacket. 

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3. The QUILTED JACKET Outfit

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(Image credit: @sarahlouiseblythe)

Style Notes: Easy weekend dressing coming right up via Sarah Louise. Quilted jackets aren't going anywhere for 2023 FYI. It's the combo of oversized boxy jacket versus the bottom half skinny fit legging which gives such a flattering silhouette. This cropped Ganni version ticks all the stylish boxes.

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4. The Cosy Knit Outfit

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(Image credit: @dinahansen)

Style Notes: Practical and stylish, comfy knits and leggings are a dream duo. Note the oversized wrap cardigan with its pared-back design—it's giving chic but cosy. Follow Dina's lead and size up in your favourite knitwear, as it often looks more premium. Finish with a classic knee-high boot. Obsessed.

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5. The Timeless French Outfit

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(Image credit: @annelauremais)

Style Notes: To me, this look defines timeless dressing. Why, you ask? Layering the classic Breton sweater and a camel blazer with that iconic bag, in contrast to the not-so-serious Converse, makes the whole look utter perfection. It's giving cool French girl for sure.

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6. The Luxe Weekend Outfit

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(Image credit: @rosiehw)

Style Notes: We're loving the way Rosie Huntington-Whitely mixes textures to elevate a basic pair of black leggings. A leather jacket + suede boots = a match made in heaven. 

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7. The Maximalist Outfit

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(Image credit: @ninasandbech)

Style Notes: In case you were wondering how to dress your leggings up for a night out, this is exactly how you do it. Add a pop of colour with an oversized blazer to make the outfit even more dynamic. 

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Next Up: I'm an Editor—9 New-In Buys I Just Added to My Winter Wish List

This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.