The thing about leggings is, whether or not you like them (and whether or not you think they count as pants), you probably own a pair — even if it's reserved for Saturday-morning errands or gym sessions. But with It Girls like Kendall Jenner and Gigi Hadid turning them into major style statements, we're starting to become convinced that leggings actually can work for on- and off-duty days alike.Effortless-looking ensembles like theirs (oh, and their random cameos on Fashion Week runways) have us realizing that leggings can look killer (yes, really) — all it takes is some statement outerwear and killer accessories to kick up those stretchy "pants" a notch. With KenGi in mind, we crafted four no-fail outfits that might just make leggings your new favorite closet staple. Now, they're not just for the gym — but for any occasion.
The Longline-Bomber Look
We've already seen countless celebrities wearing leggings with cropped bomber jackets, but opting for an elongated silhouette can actually make this athleisure look seem that much more put-together. And you don't need to overthink it — a simple black turtleneck, running sneakers, and a ribbed beanie will keep this outfit cool, without looking like you tried too hard.
Mover Merino-Wool Jersey Leggings, $105, available at Net-A-Porter; New Look Khaki Longline Bomber Jacker, $58 $26, available at New Look; Moncler Ribbed Wool Beanie Hat, $130, available at Moncler; Topshop High Neck Crinkle Top, $45, available at Topshop; Nike Women's Air Max Thea Premium Black, $110, available at Blue and Cream.
The Texture Play
Another way to make leggings look less sporty is by playing with unexpected textures, like suede or shearling. Match your pair with statement oxfords, and then top it off with a crisp white shirt, a cozy cardigan-jacket hybrid, and an oversized scarf. This way, you'll look (and feel) more like you're ready to face the day, and less like you've just rolled out of bed.
Vince Stretch-Suede Leggings, $945, available at Net-A-Porter; Australia Luxe Collective Beefeater Shearling Creepers, $174, available at Australia Luxe Collective; Zara Jacquard Melange Scarf, $25.90, available at Zara; H&M Long Cotton Shirt, $24.99, available at H&M; Zara Coat with Hood, $99.90, available at Zara.
The Denim Topper
Take your go-to exercise leggings outside the gym by pairing them with a marled turtleneck and oversized, embroidered denim shirt. Then, skip the sneakers in exchange for moto boots that say you really mean business, and grab a patent-leather bucket bag. It's the ultimate errand-running outfit that still looks good if you see your old boss (or ex!) at Bed Bath & Beyond.
Adidas by Stella McCartney Athletic Pant, $130, available at Yoox; Alexa Chung for AG Poppy Embroidered Denim Shirt, $445 $222, available at Stylebop; Wallis Fashion Gray Ribbed Polo Neck Jumper, $44 $26, available at Wallis Fashion; Charles & Keith Lace-Up Hiking Boots, $69, available at Charles & Keith; Trademark Bucket Bag, $528, available at Trademark.
The Fancy Lumberjack
Some like pairing their leggings with oversized flannel, but wearing tartan in coat form feels a little bit dressier. Layer a chunky turtleneck underneath, and complete the outfit with some heeled, colorblocked booties and sharp shades to have people mistaking you for a member of Taylor Swift's leggings-wearing squad.
J.Crew Collection New Leather Leggings, $495, available at J.Crew; Ganni State St. Check Coat, $448 $178, available at Ganni; Dear Frances Spirit Boot in Port, $660, available at Dear Frances; Genuine People Oversized Turtleneck Sweater, $123.80 $97, available at Genuine People; Prism Cairo Sunglasses, $372, available at Prism.
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