Leggings are a wardrobe staple that every woman should have. But there are certain missteps that you should never commit. These are the main mistakes to avoid when wearing that comfortable pair of leggings.
1. Don’t go too transparent
When you buy cheap leggings or leggings that come in multi-packs, that low-quality price means they’re sure to look good. Especially if they are white or light colored. There is nothing worse than other passersby knowing what kind of underwear you are wearing and what color it is. Higher quality, more expensive leggings will have more solid colors and are worth the price.
2. They’re not jeans, so don’t treat them like they are.
It can be tempting to wear leggings instead of your jeans every day, but if they get the same wear and tear as jeans, they’ll inevitably rip or have holes in them, since they’re not as durable.
3. Do not combine them with a tight look
Unless you’re going to a night party and wearing this look with heels or thigh-highs, this is generally a no no. Leggings already conform to your body, so if you hug any curves beyond that, it’s too much. Also, they aren’t the most comfortable to wear, especially if your shirt is constantly riding up. Instead, opt for a loose-fitting T-shirt or turtleneck. If you want to expose your tummy, opt for a loose cropped top or a cropped sweater.
4. Say no to metal
These leggings had a moment in the early to mid-2000s, but are a serious fashion faux pas today. Shiny leggings are unflattering, create bulges, and add an overwhelming vibe to any outfit. Say no to metallic golds, silvers and neons. Instead of this outdated look, for a solid, dull color, black is always foolproof.
5. Undergarments with visible hems are not permitted.
While you’re entitled to feel comfortable, try to invest in bikini bottoms with less visible hems or a seamless design. These can be more comfortable than opting for a thong, which can feel extremely constricting on the body when you’re already wearing leggings.
6. Don’t buy leggings that bunch up at the ankle
Leggings that gather at the ankle look sloppy, worn, and ill-fitting. Buy ones that suit your body type and height properly. Please look at the length of the seam before purchasing, if possible. Also, leggings that are too short don’t look cute either.
7. Thinking they’re just sweatpants or house pants.
Leggings are so much more than just a pair of pants to work out or wear around the house. They are less tight than jeans and can look casual or dressy. Leggings are often worn by celebrities and that’s because they’re incredibly comfortable and versatile. Try them with heels and you’ll see what we mean.
8. Do not wear high-waisted leggings
With the leggings down, you feel like you’re constantly pulling up your pants. Beyond that, high-waisted leggings are a more flattering and versatile look, as they suck up your tummy and allow you to wear them with shorter crop tops or a bralette.
9. Wear under skirts or dresses
Like the metallic leggings, this style is very outdated. It’s visually confusing and an overly layered look that’s a bit too conservative, aging the user significantly.
10. Wear with a bodysuit
This isn’t the ’80s or a “Let’s Get Physical” music video, so let’s just say this aerobics-inspired look is out. Instead, pair them with slouchy sweatshirts and sneakers for a more modern update to the look. Also, the panty lines of a thongless body suit are not pretty.
11. Skip the strong colors
Sometimes leggings can look high-end when done in color, but most of the time, it’s best to keep things subtle. And definitely don’t go for a distracting and busy print. Doing so can give you that 80s workout look, not in a good way, and overwhelm the rest of your outfit.
12. Never white
Any woman who wears white leggings is a very daring woman. The smallest dirt and spills will increase tenfold in the white tights. The light color also brings out dimples, wrinkles, and folds, and if you ever use self-tanner, that’s another story.
13. Nothing that resembles your natural skin color
We’ve all seen the Kardashians do it, and when it comes to non-designer leggings, this faux pas looks even worse. Any color that mimics your skin tone will make it look like you’re not wearing pants. We’ve all seen it and it’s an initial optical illusion.
14. Don’t Go Too Monochromatic
A monochrome look can sometimes be stylish, but when worn with leggings and done in anything but black, it can look like a matching gym outfit, which isn’t always appealing in certain contexts. To upgrade your look from a workout-fit style to a dressy-casual look, pair simple leggings with color-coordinated non-spandex panties.
15. Wash the leggings with hot water
It’s more about caring for your leggings than styling them, but washing them in hot water all the time will cause them to age faster, lose their elasticity, shrink, or lose color over time. Stick to cold water and never experience tights that fade or lose their shape.
