How to choose the right leggings
Oh HELLO. The temperatures have dropped. Even here in Queensland.
It’s 10 degrees this morning, Stylers.
In May.
Luckily I’ve re-edited my wardrobe in advance of this chilly situation.
It’s almost time to rest the razor blade and take advantage of the fact that my legs will be covered until September (except for that bit where I’m spending three weeks in a European summer).
What I cover said legs with is a rotating combination of jeans and leggings, jeggings or ponte pants.
And it seems it’s a fashion topic that many are keen to dissect and discuss too.
Here are just three of the emails I’ve received of late asking for advice on how to choose the right leggings … or jeggings.
Everyday Cashmere shrug | Bella Bodies tank | Sacha Drake pants | FRANKiE4 Footwear boots
Style questions
Wondering if you can make a few suggestions for stockists with good leggings for my size 16 pins. The weather is finally cooling down here on the Gold Coast and I need a few pairs to wear under my winter dresses. Joanne
Just a quick one, you may have already written an article on black leggings, but I need to get some and don’t know where to start! I have tried heaps and they all seem to fade, stretch, are way too long (I’m only 5ft) and I’m don’t want to keep spending money on crappy purchases! Where do I get nice, black leggings that are not going to fade, can be worn under tunics and winter dresses (I live in Melbourne) and aren’t see through? Amy
I’m a mum of two young children and like many mums have a bit of a small baby belly “overhang” this means jeans are not my friend. Coming into winter I was wondering what your thoughts are on jeggings or pull-on jeans with no zip etc? And what about ponte pants? I’ve never purchased any before do would love your thoughts on them and how to wear them. Bethany
Sacha Drake pants | Bohemian Traders top and vest
What’s the difference?
Before I tackle the specifics, I’ll give a run down of the difference between the pants in this category.
Footless tights: these are generally found in the hosiery section of a store and are generally a thicker denier than a pair of stockings but less than a legging made from a stretch fabric. Look for a denier of 50 or above to avoid losing the desired opaque effect when wearing.
Shop Bella Bodies Camyz black leggings at the Styling You Shop.
Leggings: Leggings are usually the same shape as a pair of footless tights but the difference is in the fabric from which they’re made. Good quality leggings are made from modal, viscose or a thick poly spandex mix.
Shop wYse leggings – 3/4 leggings or full-length
Jeggings: Typically jeggings are either made from a denim or stretch denim or heavy cotton material and/or include a zip at the front.
Shop Blue Illusion skinny leg bengajean OR Sacha Drake black skinny pants in the Styling You Shop
Ponte pants: Consider ponte pants leggings but ramped up a notch in the thickness department. This extra thickness means legs are better covered and supported. They will also be warmer.
Shop Sussan for ponte leggings
Sacha Drake shirt | Sacha Drake pants | Louenhide bag
Style tips
1. Leggings are not pants. Let’s get that number one rule out of the way, shall we? The key with wearing all of the above – except for a zippered jegging – is that your front and back bottoms should be covered with the top or tunic that you’re wearing.
2. Always buy this style of pant so that they are super firm. Because of the amount of stretch in the fabric, they will easily become saggy and baggy within no time of wearing if you don’t start with super firm.
3. Always choose a legging, jegging or ponte pant in a skinny leg fit. This is the most flattering style as the pant length ends at the ankle, the slimmest part of the leg.
4. Team your leggings with a tunic or longer shirt … but not too long. This look is all about the legs. Look for tops or tunics that fall between the top of the hips and mid-thighs for the most flattering look.
Bohemian Traders dress and vest | Bella Bodies leggings
5. This style of pant works so well with ankle boots, ballet flats or sport luxe sneakers. The attention is already on the ankle so reinforce that. Having said that, knee-high boots and tights and a tunic is also a fabulous winter look.
6. Layer the base look of leggings and shirt/tunic to suit the temperature. This is what makes this look so versatile from autumn through to spring. Cooler mornings or evenings can include a long-line cardi or coat and you can peel off during the day if needed but still have a complete outfit.
7. Buy the best your budget can afford in any of these categories. The wYse leggings I’ve linked to above I’ve owned for about five years and they still look as good as new and haven’t faded. They cost about $80 at the time (so cheaper than now) but have proved to be a very good wardrobe investment.
8. The leggings look is all about comfort and style. Whether you’re travelling, pregnant, in the post-pregnant months or just wanting a streamlined pant that feels good on all day long, this is the style for you.
Bohemian Traders dress and anorak | Bella Bodies leggings | FRANKiE4 Footwear sneakers
So tell me, would I find leggings, jeggings or ponte pants in your wardrobe? What brands and styles have been a winner for you?
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