Buzz
Image Credit: Christian Vierig/Getty ImagesOriginally crafted for athletic purposes, leggings were perfect for sports and yoga poses like the downward dog. Over time, they evolved into a staple of the athleisure trend, blending comfort with casual style. While their roots might make leggings seem unfit for the workplace, with the right approach, they can absolutely be styled for a professional setting.
Lately, leggings have made appearances on fashion runways and are increasingly seen in office environments, thanks to their comfort and versatility. If you're unsure how to incorporate leggings into your work attire, follow these expert styling tips to master the look.
RELATED: What Is the Viral ‘Office Siren’ Trend?—and How to Get the Look
Choose Elegant Fabrics
Leggings are available in a variety of materials, but not all are suitable for the workplace. Lerit Nifesi, a Vancouver-based personal stylist, recommends selecting leggings crafted from thicker, opaque fabrics to maintain professionalism.
Consider options like faux leather, which adds a polished, glossy touch to your outfit. “Always think about how the leggings will appear in a work environment and the overall impression they’ll create,” advises Nifesi.
Prefer Dark, Neutral Tones
Leggings are available in a wide array of colors and patterns, from bold neon hues to quirky prints like pizza designs. However, for a professional 9-to-5 look, it’s best to stick with dark, solid shades.
“Avoid leggings that match your skin tone, as they can cause unnecessary attention,” advises personal stylist Scarlett De Bease. “Opt for dark, solid colors on the bottom and incorporate vibrant hues or patterns in your top.” Additionally, steer clear of mesh panels, shaping details, and cropped styles.
Enhance Your Outfit with the Right Shoes
Unless your workplace is extremely casual, pairing leggings with sneakers might give off a gym-ready vibe. Instead, choose more refined footwear like loafers, ballet flats, or elevate your look with pointed heels, Mary Janes, or block sandals.
Ensure Full Coverage
Leggings are designed to contour your body, making them ideal for yoga poses like child’s pose or high-intensity workouts where excess fabric would be a nuisance. However, when styling leggings for the office, De Bease emphasizes the importance of ensuring your backside is fully covered.
“Choose tops and jackets that extend long enough to cover your rear, both when standing and bending over,” De Bease suggests. “The front is equally important, so ensure the crotch area is adequately covered.” She recommends tunics, elongated tops, and oversized blazers that reach at least four inches below your hips.
Add Stylish Accessories
To distinguish your office leggings ensemble from gym attire, Lerit suggests incorporating elegant jewelry. Consider eye-catching statement earrings, a sophisticated necklace unsuitable for workouts, or a belt that defines your waist and unifies the outfit.
Enhance Your Makeup
While there are no strict guidelines for makeup, spending a little extra time perfecting your look can make a significant difference. Opt for a natural appearance with BB cream, a subtle blush, and light mascara, or go bold with vibrant lipstick, bronzer, and striking blush.
Pay Attention to Your Hairstyle
When wearing leggings to work, the goal is to balance their casual nature with a refined overall look. Experiment with athletic-inspired styles like a sleek high ponytail or a low chignon, ensuring a polished finish. Soft waves, natural textures, or straight hair paired with an elegant hair accessory can also elevate your appearance.
