Both Gen Z and Millennials are on the same page: If you plan to sport leggings this summer, do so in these specific ways.

Both Gen Z and Millennials are on the same page: If you plan to sport leggings this summer, do so in these specific ways.

      As an experienced fashion editor, I'm frequently asked which summer capsule wardrobe essential I can't do without. My answer has varied over the years. At times, classic straight-leg jeans were my top choice, providing a '90s flair to flowy blouses and graphic tees. Other times, it was a linen dress, light and breathable enough to handle a heatwave effortlessly. However, for the last few years, my answer has consistently been the same: leggings.

      The simple legging has recently experienced a style revival. The high-shine, brightly colored spandex favored by icons like Lisa Rinna and Jane Fonda during their famous workout tape days are a thing of the past. Nowadays, leggings are more refined and embody a "Pilates princess" aesthetic. Similarly, the prim pedal-pushers loved by royals and A-list stars like Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe have transformed into looks reminiscent of "model off duty."

      With everything from trendy capris to Y2K-inspired foldover flares making a comeback in summer 2026, what delights me about this resurgence is its appeal across generations. So, whether you're part of Gen Z, a millennial, or from Gen X, believe me: there's a legging style that will suit you. Need more evidence? Just weeks ago, I saw my 53-year-old mother, someone who usually avoids trends, confidently come down the stairs in a cropped-capris-and-thong kitten-heel outfit that could easily belong to Hailey Bieber's summer wardrobe.

      After exploring my social media, I found several styles favored by both Gen Z and millennials, despite them styling them differently. Read on to discover the four trending legging styles and how to wear them.

      **How Millennials and Gen Z Are Wearing Leggings in Summer 2026**

      1. **Capris**

      **Style Notes:** After being sidelined for a while, capri leggings have been reinvented and are now among the season's hottest items. They perfectly blend '50s pin-up glamour with a contemporary edge, while their cropped length enhances the silhouette. This style pairs nicely with many of summer's key trends, such as heeled ballet flats with linen tops, minimalist flip-flops with baby tees, and strappy sandals with three-quarter-length tops.

      **Gen Z:**

      Isabelle Coheen's look features fun cuts and playful colors, highlighting her quintessentially Gen Z style. Her outfit, which includes a cinched denim jacket and a Sisters and Seekers Martha Carryall, radiates youthful energy.

      **Millennials:**

      Fashion designer Cass Dimico puts a modern twist on capri leggings with a timeless outfit. Layering a loose button-up over a fitted tank, she captures the effortless elegance of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy. She completes her look with a Bottega Veneta Andiamo clutch and strappy peep-toe mules, creating a refined yet contemporary aesthetic.

      **Shop Capri Leggings:**

      - Free People - Never Better Mini Leggings

      - Adanola - Ultimate Capri Leggings (Kendall Jenner often wears Adanola capris.)

      - Lululemon - Wunder Train High-Rise Crop 21" (Known for comfort.)

      - Abercrombie - Curve Love A&F Forme Capri Pant (Ideal for curvier figures.)

      2. **Fold-Over Flared Leggings**

      **Style Notes:** A nostalgic remnant from the Y2K era, fold-over flared leggings are back in style thanks to vintage athleisure. Now a summer staple, this once "outdated" silhouette offers adaptability and comfort, as the waistband can be adjusted for the perfect fit.

      **Gen Z:**

      Gen Z influencer Sofia embraces bold colors and proportions, mixing clashing hues and striking prints to make her Pilates ensemble youthful and engaging. Her look is complemented by biker-style sunglasses and an all-black Longchamp Le Pliage bag, making it perfect for East London's vibrant streets.

      **Millennials:**

      Kendall Jenner's flared leggings demonstrate that millennial outfits are anything but boring. Sticking to a neutral color scheme, she pairs her Alo leggings with a roomy suede tote and popular The Row City Sandals for a practical yet stylish look.

      **Shop Fold-Over Flared Leggings:**

      - Princess Polly - Kobee Foldover Flare Trousers Co-Ord

      - Astoria - Foldover Flare Legging (Ideal with flip-flops and a tank top.)

      - Many Many Clothes - The Alma Trousers in Aqua (A popular Gen Z color this season.)

      - SKIMS - Cotton Jersey Foldover Pant (Seen on Kylie Jenner.)

      - SPORTY & RICH - Runner Flared-Leg Woven Leggings (A favorite of editor Rebecca Rhys-Evans.)

      3. **Full-Length Leggings**

      **Style Notes:** Whether you're hitting the gym or embracing a Pilates lifestyle, full

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Both Gen Z and Millennials are on the same page: If you plan to sport leggings this summer, do so in these specific ways.

Here's the way they're styling them.