How to Wear Leggings to Work, According to Stylists

In their advent, leggings were designed specifically for athletic wear—ideal for sportsy activities and downward dog—and eventually morphed into more of a lounge-y aesthetic a la the athleisure boom. Given their history, the idea of wearing leggings to work may seem like a stretch (no pun intended), but if you go about it the right way you can totally pull it off. 

Recently, leggings have even been spotted at several runway shows and more people are, indeed, sauntering into the office wearing this comfy, practical pant. Not quite sure how to wear leggings to work but want to pull off the feat? Take your cue from these expert stylist tips. 

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Opt for Chic Materials

Leggings come in all sorts of fabrics, and not all of them work for a professional setting. Lerit Nifesi, a personal stylist based in Vancouver, says to choose leggings made with a thicker fabric and to ensure they’re not see-through. 

You can also go for materials like faux leather, which has a shiny finish that instantly elevates the look. “The most important thing is to consider how the leggings will look when worn in a professional setting and the overall look you’ll achieve,” Nifesi says.

Stick to Dark, Solid Colors 

You can find a pair of leggings in just about any color or print. We’re talking splashy neons, pizza-emblazoned prints, and beyond. For a fit that vibes in a 9 to 5, your best bet is to choose dark, solid colors. 

“Do not wear leggings in your skin color or people will be whipping their heads around so fast to double-check,” says personal stylist Scarlett De Bease. “Stick to dark solid colors on the bottom and add color or patterns to what you wear on top.”Also avoid mesh panels, shaper details, and cropped leggings.

Elevate Your Look with Footwear

Unless you work in a super casual environment, a sneaker and legging combo isn’t going to work since it reads like you’re about to saunter into a pilates sesh. Instead, opt for a more polished shoe. You can keep things comfy with a loafer or ballet flats, or add some height with a pointed heel, mary jane, or block sandal. 

Cover Your Tush

Leggings hug every curve of your body—a bonus when you’re in child’s pose or sweating it out in a HIIT class and don’t need extra fabric flying around. When wearing leggings to work, though, De Bease says the number one rule is to cover your tush.

“Wear tops and jackets long enough to cover your behind when standing, and especially when bending over,” De Bease says. “The front counts too, so be sure the crotch is well covered as well.” She recommends tunics, long tops, and oversize blazers that fall at least four inches below your bottom.

Accessorize the Look

To differentiate your work leggings outfit from a gym-approved variation, incorporate a few pieces of beautiful jewelry, Lerit advises. Think statement earrings that catch the light, a beautiful necklace you’d never wear to a sweaty workout, and/or a belt that cinches your waist and ties your outfit together. 

Think About Your Makeup Game

There are no firm rules when it comes to makeup, but do take an extra moment in front of the mirror to help polish the look. Keep it minimal with a BB cream, soft blush, and a few coats of mascara, or make a power move with a bold lipstick, bronzer, and bold blush.

Don’t Forget Your Hair

The theme when wearing leggings to work is to aim for a polished aesthetic to counteract the inherent casualness of leggings. You could toy with the athletic vibes by wearing your hair in a high ponytail or low chignon, but keep it sleek so there’s no mistaking your intention. Soft waves, natural texture, and straight hair also work; try accessorizing with a nice hair clip to elevate the look.