I think it's safe to say that many of us will have at least one pair of leggings in our wardrobe, and that we reach for them more than we ever would have a decade ago. Over the past few years, leggings have expanded their horizons beyond the gym to become a staple that many people—including fashion types—regularly wear with other basics. And yet, even with their mass acceptance, you'd be forgiven for thinking that even the best leggings just aren't the most exciting thing that lives in your closet.
Don't, however, overlook them or neglect to give your leggings outfits thought—they can look incredibly chic and provide you with a level of comfort that many other trousers just can't match. The easiest way to fall back in love with leggings is, ultimately, with fresh dose of outfit inspiration.
I took to Instagram to see how some of the most stylish people I follow have been wearing their leggings lately and, get this, their styling doesn't centre around anything too trendy either! Those basics I mentioned? They're coming in especially handy for wearing with leggings right now.
From roomy knits to sleek tailoring, scroll on to see the basics to wear with leggings that'll make you look put-together this season.
7 Chic Basics to Wear With Leggings
1. Blazers
Style Notes: One of the easiest ways to elevate any trainer look is with a blazer. Much more refined looking than any puffer, the balance of something tailored with something that's considered to be very casual makes for a compelling ensemble.
Shop the Basic
The gold buttons give this a luxury feel.
This stylish blazer comes in an array of classic colours.
The belted blazer will be a huge trend this year.
Shop Leggings
These have the flawless-looking fit.
2. Button-Down Shirts
Style Notes: Another item associated with formality that loans itself well to the lowkey styling of leggings is that of the button-down shirt. Look for classic colours such as blue and white, or even a timeless stripe, to give leggings outfits instant polish.
Shop the Basic
The ideal way to dress up leggings and jeans.
A red striped shirt is just as classic, rest assured.
No need to size up—this has a perfect roomy fit.
Shop Leggings
These are reviewed so well.
3. Knee-High Boots
Style Notes: There are two shoes that have made my basics to wear with leggings edit, but this one is my personal favourite. Be they heeled or flat, by wearing your leggings with a pair of knee-high boots, you create a sleek silhouette that looks incredibly high end.
Shop the Basic
The perfect knee boot doesn't exi...
If you prefer flats, this sleek pair is the way to go.
These look so high end.
Shop Leggings
I really rate Uniqlo's leggings.
4. Trench Coats
Style Notes: Trench coats will always give your look an air of sophistication, and that goes for any leggings outfit, too. From chunky trainers and a hoodie to ballet flats and a silk shirt, this is the outerwear solution that works for all.
Shop the Basic
The double-breasted buttons set this trench coat apart from the rest.
Switch things up with a khaki style.
As classic as trench coats get.
Shop Leggings
Elevate your leggings collection with a stirrup pair.
5. Roomy Jumpers
Style Notes: Counter the close-knit fit of leggings with something roomier up top to create a cool contrast. Relaxed-fit jumpers and cardigans are the first thing that spring to mind.
Shop the Basic
Such a great H&M find.
Would you look at those sleeves!
A high-end cardigan option.
Shop Leggings
Our editors swear by these Spanx leggings.
6. Ballet Flats
Style Notes: While knee-high boots offer a sleekness to leggings that's hard to match, there's something just so elegant about a leggings-and-ballet-flat pairing, too. More formal looking, this is a combination that you can wear for dinners out or chic errands running.
Shop the Basic
If timeless if your vibe, black ballet flats won't fail you.
Suede pairs feel especially 2025.
I love this cocoa bean shade.
Shop Leggings
An affordable stirrup option.
7. Simple Necklaces
Style Notes: If elevating your leggings is the goal, then you should give some consideration to the accessories you pair with them. In terms of jewellery, nothing makes something look polished quite like layering some simple strands together. A tennis necklace is also ideal for giving any look an expensive-looking quality.
Shop the Basic
This is on my dream-wardrobe wish list.
Fine necklaces are so elegant.
Mix the widths of your layering necklaces to make the look more unique.
Shop Leggings
Brown leggings are every inch as chic as black.
