Fashion enthusiasts are bringing back this "outdated" pant trend that appears much trendier than leggings.
It's generally anticipated that key pieces in our wardrobes will come and go—like how everyone seems to prefer slim sneakers over chunky ones, for example—yet there are still certain staples that feel so essential that they shouldn't be swayed by trend fluctuations. Leggings unquestionably fit this description. Or so we believed. In August, the Wall Street Journal announced the demise of leggings with an article stating that classic leggings are giving way to Big Workout Pants for Gen Z. And they were accurate. We’ve noticed the resurgence of track pants everywhere, from the 2026 runways to the casual styles of celebrities like Jennifer Lawrence and Ayo Edebiri. While I don't personally believe that leggings are obsolete (this Millennial editor still favors them for workouts), I acknowledge that baggier sporty pants are rapidly becoming the preferred choice for coffee outings, casual weekend attire, and travel days. Fashion enthusiasts are increasingly opting for chic track pants in situations where they would typically wear leggings, pairing them with sneakers, clogs, and ballet flats. With designers such as Tory Burch, Donni, and Tibi offering stylish interpretations of these pants, there are now more elegant options available than ever. Leggings, who? Ahead, explore how fashion-forward individuals are styling track pants in their laid-back looks and shop the finest pairs, ranging from Tory to Zara.
(Image credit: Launchmetrics Spotlight/Tory Burch)
Tory Burch
Japanese Jersey Sweatpants
I haven't been able to stop thinking about these Tory Burch pants since I spotted them on the runway last spring.
Reformation
Julien Poplin Pant
Take inspiration from the model: the effortlessly cool way to wear them is with a tee and V-neck sweater.
DONNI.
Silk Stripe Crop Pant
Donni's silk designs are a favorite among fashion insiders (and consequently seldom in stock).
Athleta
MVP Mid Rise Side Stripe Pant
Beyond Yoga
Luxefleece Piper Wide Leg Pants
Check out the ankle slit on these.
(Image credit: e)
Sanctuary
Satin Track Pants
I'm loving this elevated styling.
Year of Ours
Warm Up Pants
Am I imagining things, or could you wear these with an oversized button-down for the office?
Old Navy
High-Waisted Socomfy Wide-Leg Sweatpants
ZARA
Lace Trim Wide Sweatpants
Tibi
Active Knit Winslow Pants
Of course, Tibi's option is both simple and sophisticated.
H&M
Wide-Leg Pull-On Pants
The thick stripe feels especially trendy.
Wales Bonner
Mantra Pointelle-Trimmed Jersey Straight-Leg Track Pants
Since Grace Wales Bonner was announced as the menswear designer at Hermès, items from her eponymous brand have gained significant prestige.
Sandy Liang
Paprika Pant in Blue
Free People
Retro Rider Pants
This color combination appeals to me.
Alo
Afterglow Wide Leg Track Pant
Jaded London
Micro Fibre XL Jogger Pant
Can you imagine these with a pair of Speedcat sneakers?
J.Crew
Cashmere Track Pant
And they're made of cashmere? Count me in.
The Upside
Vitesse Marine Wide Leg Sweatpants
I adore the retro vibe here.
The navy and maroon combination is spot on.
Other articles
Fashion enthusiasts are bringing back this "outdated" pant trend that appears much trendier than leggings.
Athletic, comfortable, stylish.
