Leggings have undergone a remarkable transformation in recent years, shedding their reputation as an outfit confined to the home. Instead, they’ve become a staple in many people’s wardrobes due to their unparalleled comfort. Whether you’re looking to add a touch of elegance to your winter wardrobe or keep cool in the summer, leggings are the perfect pairing option for dresses.
In this post, we’ll explore some fantastic combinations that will make you want to wear your favorite leggings everywhere – from formal events to casual outings.
How to Style Leggings with Dresses? (Styling Tips)
Once you get used to wearing tights or leggings, it’s difficult to go back to jeans or trousers. They offer unparalleled comfort and can be styled in countless ways regardless of the season. Their versatility knows no bounds, whether paired with short outfits, long ones, boots, flats, or anything else.
When incorporating leggings under a dress, keep the following tips in mind: ensure the dress length allows for visible leggings, try faux leather leggings for a dressier look, and pair any long shirt, sweater, or tunic with any leggings. If you’re going for printed or embellished leggings, opt for a minimalistic dress. In summer, prioritize breathable material for your leggings. Finally, don’t be afraid to get creative with layering, combining bold colors, textures, and patterns.
Semi Formal & Formal Looks
32 – Sightseeing Look
When venturing out whether it’s a guided tour or exploring the city on your own, having a reliable and versatile piece of clothing is crucial. Leggings fall into this category, as they can effortlessly blend in with various outfits to create distinct looks that are both stylish and suitable for formal and casual events. For instance, pairing a plain white blouse with a printed midi skirt and cropped black leggings creates a chic ensemble perfect for a day spent with friends and family.
In a similar vein, if you’re meeting with clients during your travels, stirrup tights can be seamlessly incorporated into the same outfit to instantly elevate the look for more formal occasions.
31 – Street Style
To achieve a chic and understated street style aesthetic, pair high-waisted straight-leg jeans with a streamlined overcoat and coordinating sneakers. This effortless combination creates a modern silhouette that’s perfect for a casual outing or dressing up for a night out on the town.
30 – Sunday Brunch Outfit
Embroidered clothing has an enduring charm, reappearing in fashion cycles. This stunning embroidered long shirt is a prime example of timeless elegance. Pair it with leather leggings for a chic outfit that can be elevated by a vibrant undershirt and pumps. For inspiration on how to dress up for Sunday brunch, explore our previous article: 15 Ways to Elevate Your Brunch Attire.
29 – Rocking Black
Elevate your style by pairing your cropped black leggings with a stunning sleeveless floating coat that adds a touch of elegance with its belt accent. The combination creates a chic and modern look that’s perfect for a night out or a special occasion.
28 – Perfect Outfit for Shopping
When it comes to shopping trips, you want an outfit that’s both comfortable and stylish. To achieve this, consider pairing your black leggings with a flowy black dress or a crisp white top for a chic yet casual look. The key is to strike a balance between comfort and style, ensuring you feel great while still looking great. For example, teaming up black leggings with a smart turtleneck featuring black and white stripes creates a timeless ensemble that’s perfect for a shopping excursion.
Casual Looks
27 – With Crochet Dress
A crocheted dress exudes an undeniable femininity, and when paired with leggings, it creates a perfect blend of style and comfort. If you’re looking for inspiration on how to wear patterned leggings with your crochet jersey dress, check out these ideas:
26 – Leather Leggings with Tunic & Sweater Dresses for Fall
25 – Go Monochrome
24 – Thin Leggings
For those who prefer a more streamlined look, thin breathable tights offer the perfect solution. These versatile leg coverings provide full coverage while allowing for a comfortable range of motion. They can be easily styled under dresses, skirts, or even short dresses to create a chic and polished outfit during the winter months. To complete the look, pair them with boots or high heels, and don’t forget to add a statement piece like the maroon sweater ($25) or mini skater skirt ($13).
If you do opt for tights, consider investing in a pair of thin black leggings ($40), perfect for layering under your outfit.
23 – Wear It Under Dress With Boots
Elevate your daily look with a versatile outfit that can be styled for any season. Start with a plain or cropped top, paired with leggings – a timeless combination that’s easy to mix and match. To add some depth, throw on a long shrug or coat, depending on the weather and time of year. For a stylish touch, swap out your shoes for a pair of boots. Opt for ankle-length boots in spring and summer, and knee-length boots in winter.
Finally, complete the look with a crossbody bag, some cute accessories, and a half-bun hairstyle. You’ll be ready to take on the day in no time.
The essentials:
1. black leggings ($40)
2. leopard print boots ($40)
3. women’s tee shirt ($18)
22 – Under Dress With Flats
When it comes to wardrobe staples, certain pieces remain timeless favorites. Tops with a playful touch, shrugs that add a layer of sophistication, leggings for comfort and versatility, and flats for effortless elegance are all enduring choices. To take your outfit to the next level, consider pairing these basics with sneakers for a sporty vibe, pumps for a dressy look, or peep-toes for a chic yet understated finish.
21 – For Office
For many women, dressing for work can be a source of stress and distraction. Preferring chic and relaxed clothing can actually help improve focus on tasks at hand. If you’re one of these women, constantly worrying about what to wear with your tunics, Kurtis or long shirts, there’s a simple solution: black leggings. Not only do they pair well with dresses, but they also complement every colored outfit.
Building a solid collection of basic colors, including black, can be a great way to simplify your wardrobe and create versatile outfits. Here are some additional ideas for stylish ensembles featuring black leggings.
20 – Dress with Leggings for Plus Size
Curvy individuals can confidently own and style these pieces, making them a great option for plus-sized women. For an added touch of sophistication, pairing the outfit with longer tops or shirts that fall just above the knee can create a more streamlined look that accentuates their curves. With this versatile piece, curvier ladies can easily elevate their wardrobe without breaking the bank.
Options include simple yet affordable pieces like black leggings ($5) and a classic black and white tee ($30), making it easy to add some flair to any outfit.
19 – For Women Over Fifty
As we age, our fashion preferences often shift towards a more relaxed and comfortable approach. For those over fifty, it’s common to opt for laid-back ensembles that prioritize ease of movement and cozy textures.
However, this doesn’t mean we have to sacrifice style altogether. Why not try swapping out sweatpants and loose trousers for tights and leggings? Pair these with flowy maxi dresses or tunics, and add a crisp white shirt for a polished contrast.
To complete the look, don’t forget to add some statement accessories and classy shoes. This trifecta of comfort, style, and sophistication will have you feeling confident and put-together.
18 – With Checkered Shirts
One of the most versatile and stylish additions to a woman’s wardrobe is undoubtedly the checkered shirt. Its unique design allows it to seamlessly blend with an array of outfits, making it an ideal choice for everyday wear. For instance, this stunning high-low check print tunic can be effortlessly paired with a pair of leather leggings from Nordstrom, creating a chic and sophisticated ensemble that exudes confidence and poise.
17- Frolicking in Winter
Embracing winter doesn’t mean sacrificing style. You can easily combine your trusty leggings with other pieces to create a cozy and chic outfit. Simply tuck the leggings into your boots, then layer on a warm sweater dress or cardigan to keep you snug. Add a touch of elegance with a golden neck chain, and you’re ready to take on the season. For inspiration, check out our collection of 16 beautiful tunic top outfits for women this winter.
16 – Back to School Outfit
Kick-start the new academic year in style! Are you struggling to come up with fresh outfit ideas that are both comfortable and versatile? Look no further! Pair a pair of chafe-free leggings, perfect for any season, with a structured long Tibi blazer featuring a stylish check print and an oversized Tee. This chic combination is sure to elevate your everyday look.
15 – Playing with Sequins
When it comes to dressing up for a night out, nothing says glamour like a sparkly outfit adorned with sequins. For a clubbing or partying extravaganza, consider pairing a glittery ensemble with a statement-making mini skirt and a sleek black quilted moto jacket. And why not push the boundaries by adding leggings to your party attire? The key is to strike the perfect balance between flashiness and sophistication.
14 – Leggings with Red Dress
Make a statement by donning a vibrant red wrap-around halter dress that’s sure to draw attention. To elevate the overall aesthetic, pair it with a sleek pair of leggings from Nordstrom for a striking contrast that exudes edgy sophistication.
13 – Fall Outfit Ideas
As the fall season approaches, we’re surrounded by vibrant hues and fashion-forward styles. To create a stunning ensemble, consider pairing a sleek cold-shoulder sweater dress with high-quality faux leather leggings from Nordstrom. This chic combination is sure to turn heads.
12 – Elegant in Black
For those who make black their go-to color, incorporating patterned or embellished leggings into their wardrobe can be a stylish choice. Pair these statement-making legging with a flowy double-body crop top dress for a look that’s both chic and understated. Finish the outfit off with white sneakers to add a touch of whimsy and soften the overall aesthetic.
11 – Casual Athleisure Party Outfit
Elevate your wardrobe game by pairing these stunningly printed leggings with a timeless simplicity, courtesy of a sleek black jersey dress. The result is an effortlessly chic and alluring ensemble that exudes sophistication. To take it to the next level, introduce a splash of vibrancy through a radiant silk or printed scarf or beanie, adding an unexpected pop of color that’s sure to turn heads.
10 – Leggings for Winter Vacations
When embarking on a winter vacation abroad, packing warm and cozy clothing can be a daunting task, especially when limited by space constraints. To strike a balance between style and practicality, consider bringing versatile pieces that can be layered or mixed-and-matched to create multiple outfits. The cross-front sweater dress, for instance, offers a chic and comfortable solution for winter dressing.
Pair it with woolen leggings for a stylish and warm ensemble that’s sure to keep you cozy during your trip.
9 – Contrasting Color Outfits
Crafting a visually appealing outfit involves layering and contrasting colors in a harmonious balance. By combining seemingly disparate pieces, such as a long dress shirt paired with an oversized sweater and vibrant leggings, you can create a stunningly effortless yet stylish ensemble perfect for casual occasions.
8 – Floral Leggings
As the seasons change, why not start by embracing the fresh vibes of spring? Pair bold floral leggings with a charming peplum shirt dress for a look that’s both stylish and on-trend. Let the beauty of nature inspire your wardrobe choices and get ready to bloom in style!
7 – Casual Winter Outfit
As winter mornings roll around, why not start your day off right with a stylish outfit that’s both cozy and chic? Pair woolen leggings with a charming white and grey shirt-skirt dress combination, topped off with a structured and formal cardigan in a rich, dark shade. To add a pop of color to the ensemble, wrap a vibrant mustard scarf around your neck. And if you’re looking for more ways to wear black leggings, be sure to check out our comprehensive list of 21 creative combinations.
6 – Work Outfit
Elevate your workwear game by styling leggings in a way that transcends casual wear. A perfect combination is pairing them with a loose-fitting blouse and a tailored cardigan, which can easily take you from a relaxed atmosphere to a professional setting. The oversized shirt adds a touch of sophistication, while the structured cardigan provides a polished finish, making your outfit office-ready.
5 – Office Party Outfit
When attending office parties, a sudden lack of motivation can be overwhelming. However, with a simple yet stylish solution, you can elevate your outfit from dull to dazzling. Consider pairing a charming strappy sweater dress with comfortable leggings, and voilà! You’ll exude effortless sophistication without breaking a sweat.
4 – Thanksgiving
Elevate your Thanksgiving ensemble by pairing your leggings with a stylish black dress, complemented by the luxurious texture of a high-quality faux fur coat. The combination creates a chic and cozy look that’s perfect for the holiday. For added inspiration, consider these styling tips to make the most of your faux fur coat.
3 – Chic in Pink
Pink’s ubiquitous appeal is evident in its widespread adoption as a popular color choice. The addition of polka dots on a pink dress is akin to a visual treat that captivates the eyes. This enchanting dress can be effortlessly styled for special events and occasions, pairing perfectly with black patterned leggings. To elevate the look, pair it with shiny pointed boots for a chic, dressed-up ensemble.
2 – With Pleated Dress
Elevate the simplicity of a plain pleated dress by pairing it with a printed blouse. The combination creates a sophisticated ensemble that’s perfect for any occasion. For an even more polished look, consider adding smart black leggings to create a chic, high-end aesthetic. To take your outfit to the next level, add some statement accessories like pink earrings and a golden statement bracelet or ring. These thoughtful touches will add a touch of glamour to your overall look.
1 – Summer Combo
Pair your leggings with a flowy kimono dress and a tank top for a carefree summer ensemble. The combination offers a perfect blend of comfort and breathability.
FAQs
After delving into the world of fashion, we’ve compiled a comprehensive list of the most frequently asked questions regarding styling ideas. Our research and conversations with industry experts have provided valuable insights, which are now being shared with you.
Q. Is it okay to wear leggings with a dress?
While there’s no rule that prohibits wearing leggings under dresses, it’s completely acceptable as long as done tastefully. In fact, we’ve already offered various styling tips on how to incorporate them seamlessly into your outfit. If you haven’t had a chance to review our suggestions yet, take another glance up the page and discover new ways to make the combination work.
Q. What kind of dress goes well with leggings?
When it comes to pairing dresses with leggings, a knee-length or shorter mini dress can be a great choice if you’re looking for coverage and warmth. Alternatively, low-cut dresses and tunics that fall below the knee can also work well with leggings. However, when it comes to longer dresses, finding trousers that complement their shape and style can be challenging. Wide bottoms, in particular, may not be the most flattering option.
So, what are some alternative solutions for dressing up or down while still keeping your legs cozy?
Q. What to wear under a dress to cover legs?
When it comes to dressing up or down, tights, leggings, and jeggings are the unsung heroes of our wardrobes. These versatile pieces of clothing can instantly elevate a look by adding a layer of modesty, texture, and interest to our legs, making them an essential item for anyone who wants to feel confident and stylish – whether they’re pairing a short dress with some extra coverage or keeping their legs warm on a chilly day.
Q. How to wear leggings with a summer dress?
When the mercury rises, pair your sandals with flowy frocks or tunics that keep your legs protected from the sun and pesky mosquitoes. The loose fit will also allow you to stay cool throughout the day. For a more relaxed vibe, team them up with oversized tees that create a comfortable look. To ensure maximum comfort, opt for sheer or thin-fabric leggings that won’t weigh you down in the summer heat.
Q. How to wear leggings if you are over forty?
For women over forty, the versatility of maxi dresses becomes even more pronounced. Pairing them with loose-fitting tunics or flowy long shirts creates a look that’s both stylish and comfortable. The flowing silhouette allows for ease of movement while the added layer provides an extra layer of warmth on chilly days.
Q. What type of dress to wear with leggings and boots?
When venturing out into freezing temperatures, consider pairing your trousers with sturdy boots for added warmth and protection. The combination of trousers, long coats, and shrugs can create a captivating ensemble that’s perfect for braving the chill.
