
I don’t typically wear leggings, but these five simple outfits demonstrate how they can indeed appear quite elegant.
This is the first time in five years that I've become a gym member and actually maintained a consistent routine—cheers to me. I quickly realized the significance of choosing the right leggings because we all understand that a bad outfit can ruin a good day, right? After trying out leggings from brands like Adanola, Alo, and Lululemon among others, I’ve transitioned from not wearing leggings to sporting them four times a week. What I appreciate most about the pairs from these brands is their fuss-free and minimal design, allowing me to wear them at work before heading to a workout. Yes, I mean wearing leggings for activities beyond just the gym. However, since I've never incorporated leggings into my everyday attire, I needed some style inspiration to make them appear less “gym-like” and more “cool-girl.” Thankfully, some of my favorite women on Instagram have recently showcased elegant legging outfits, and I’m definitely going to emulate them. Whether it's pairing a classic black legging with a rugby shirt or combining a cropped jacket with pointed-toe heels for a stirrup style, here are five elegant legging outfits that I've saved and suggest you do too.
1. Leggings + Polo Shirt + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: The headband, socks, and ballet flats—I'm in love with this whole preppy look. This is a complete outfit to replicate, and I fully support the combo of rugby shirts with leggings when it looks this polished.
Shop the Look:
- Baum Und Pferdgarten Jeanni Top Java Polo Stripe (available in various colors)
- Lululemon Align High-Rise Pant 28" (choose from four lengths based on your height)
- Arket Cotton Chevron Socks (because the socks and ballet flats are key)
- Dune Leather Woven Mary Jane Ballet Flats (I'd love these in all three colors).
2. Leggings + Roll Neck + Loafers
Style Notes: This reminds me of Princess Diana, and I'm really into it. Combining leggings with a roll neck, loafers, and '90s accessories gives a classic wardrobe piece a retro twist. Plus, the sweater tied around the waist perfectly completes the outfit!
Shop the Look:
- COS Chunky Pure Cashmere Turtleneck Jumper (I'll keep my knits out longer after seeing this)
- H&M Cotton-Blend Leggings (H&M has a wide range of affordable options)
- M&S Collection Leather Loafers (I appreciate that these come in half sizes, plus the sunglasses are the season's must-have shape).
3. Leggings + Cardigan + Oversized Coat
Style Notes: Wearing a cardigan alone as a top is a simple way to transition cozy knits into warmer months. I like how Lydia chose an oversized cardigan to pair with classic black leggings and elegant block heels for a refined touch.
Shop the Look:
- ZARA 100% Wool Oversize Cardigan (I prefer longer cardigans to cover the crotch area)
- TOTEME + Net Sustain Cork Stretch-Jersey Leggings (a favorite among fashion enthusiasts for good reason)
- Weekday Oversized Double-Breasted Wool-Blend Coat (I have it in black and love its shape)
- Flattered Elin Leather Black (I wouldn't have thought to wear this type of shoe with leggings, but I’m a fan).
4. Stirrup Leggings + Cropped Jacket + Pointed Shoes
Style Notes: A monochromatic look always appears sleek, so naturally, I rate Hannah Lewis' outfit highly. The cropped jacket paired with long leather gloves elevates this outfit to a fashion editorial level.
Shop the Look:
- VINCE Cropped Cotton-Blend Jacket (goodbye bulky coats, I'm ready for cropped jackets)
- SPANX Stretch-Ponte Stirrup Leggings (an easy way to join the balletcore trend this season)
- COS Square-Toe Leather Court Shoes (love the square toe for that '80s vibe)
- & Other Stories Long Leather Gloves (even if it’s warm, they complete the vibe perfectly).
5. Coloured Leggings + Scarf Jacket + Trainers
Style Notes: Tegan's outfit demonstrates that you can still look polished in trainers paired with leggings. The combination of khaki and cream instantly gives a sophisticated feel, and the sporty shoes align perfectly with the overall aesthetic.
Shop the Look:
- Toteme Embroidered Scarf Jacket Harvest (perfect for those in-between weather days)
- Adanola Ultimate Leggings Olive Green (available in 17 colors and sizes from XXS-XXXL in regular or tall lengths)
- NIKE V2k Run Rubber-Trimmed Mesh Sneakers (you can still appear elegant in sporty

























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I don’t typically wear leggings, but these five simple outfits demonstrate how they can indeed appear quite elegant.
Whether paired with a rugby shirt and ballet flats or a cardigan and coat, these are the most stylish leggings outfits to experiment with this year.