How to Get Away With Wearing Leggings as Pants

The Legging vs. Pant Debate

There's been a lot of controversial debate over wearing leggings as pants 

We've been told that only certain body types can wear leggings. (Not true)

We've been told that leggings worn as pants make you look lazy and that they should only be worn to the gym. (Lazy? We prefer the word "comfortable")

We've been told that wearing leggings as pants isn't flattering or that they are distracting to others. (How is this my problem?)

To all this we say bah humbug. Poppycock. Hogwash. 

Life is too short to let someone else's negative opinions dictate your life and level of comfort. After all, if we’ve gained anything from our time working from home it’s that wearing leggings as pants is not only now more ‘acceptable’ but should be encouraged. A pair of versatile bottoms for capsule wardrobe styling? Yes. Comfortable enough to wear all day every day? Also yes. 

As such, we'd like to talk about why we love leggings so much and help you see - if you don't already, why leggings worn as pants are the ultimate wardrobe essential. For those still skeptical about how to wear leggings as pants stick around as we share our top 6 ways to style our favourite leggings.

Benefits to Wearing Leggings as Pants

Leggings can be worn as pants year round

The weather in Canada varies a lot. It gets really hot in the summer but also gets cold in the winter - like really cold. Depending on the thickness of your leggings, they can be worn as cozy winter bottoms or styled throughout the summer.

While wearing tights under your jeans does help in the winter, it doesn't account for the fact that jeans are SO uncomfortable - especially with another layer underneath them. Cue The Fair Legging as the perfect leggings thick enough to wear as pants over tights with lots of room to stretch and move around. Throw on a pair of long socks over (or under) and you've got another layer for extra cold days. Perfection!

On the flip side, throw on The Fair Crop Legging in the spring and summer months for an easy breezy sustainable staple. 

A good pair of leggings is also an essential layering piece to add dimension to a minimal wardrobe

You can throw them on under a dress or shorts for extra warmth, or wear leggings as pants with a long top. They're a transition piece as you can dress up leggings for work and hit the supermarket afterwards in them for a more casual look. They're easy to roll up in luggage, and often take up less space than a pair of jeans. Leggings are also stretchy which allow you room to breathe and move around as you please.

To us, leggings are freedom

Leggings worn as pants present freedom of movement, style and expression. From leggings thick enough to wear in the winter to different cuts, colours and fabrics, these bottoms are the ultimate wardrobe staple.

How to Wear Leggings as Pants

Still not convinced? We’ve put together a style guide with 6 very different looks to show you how to wear leggings as pants and spark some (comfy) inspo.

1. Comfy Travel Wear

Photo credit: @ViktoriaWanders

For a simple and comfortable road trip uniform, leggings as pants are the perfect choice! Paired with flats and a longer slouchy t-shirt, you’re ready to sit back and enjoy your journey. We personally love a classic striped top and jacket if it gets chilly.

2. A Cozy Affair

Photo credit: @ChloeAlysse

A great pair of leggings + an oversized knit sweater is the perfect marriage of cozy comfort. An oversized top balances out a fitted bottom and adds a cabin chic twist to your look. Neutral colours keep this 80s inspired look fresh and modern. Looking to dress up leggings for work zoom calls? Layer your knit sweater with a collared button-up for a smart style.

3. Busy in a Blazer

While you might not be allowed to wear leggings to the office (is formal office wear still a thing?), you can still pull off a polished and professional look. A blazer and booties add some sophistication to a pair of leggings  along with a white button down. If your place of work is more 'laxed', dress up leggings for work with a cozy sweater under your blazer for a classic princess Diana look. 

4. Feeling Sporty

Photo credit: @ViktoriaWanders

Feeling sportier and looking for ease of movement as you head out to run errands? Wear leggings as pants with an oversized sweatshirt for cooler evenings or pair them with The Everyday Boxy Tee for warm summer days. Revive the 90’s classic style by pairing this combo with your favourite scrunchie and runners.

5. Statement Shoes

6. Trench Coat Cool 

Photo credit: @ViktoriaWanders

Create a cool and classic outfit by layering your favourite leggings with a structured trench coat. Great to wear with leggings thick enough for the winter months or cropped for the spring, switch out your trench coats throughout the year from wool to cotton overcoats for a truly versatile wardrobe.

Best leggings to wear as pants

It's easy to wear leggings as pants, however it's important to wear good quality leggings. Leggings should not be see through and they should fit snugly to avoid warping the fabric. For optimal garment care, air dry your leggings and wash them in a delicate bag so they don’t get stretched or pulled - this will ensure your leggings last longer.

The most important part about wearing leggings as pants is to wear them for yourself. Don't worry about what others think and wear what makes you feel happy and comfortable.

What's your favourite way to wear leggings as pants? Have a favourite sustainable clothing outfit? Let us know in the comments below. We'd love to hear from you!