Trendy Since Forever
Astonishingly, the trend of wearing leggings is not a new one and it dates way back to the 14th century. Initially, they were considered a men specific bottom wear. It is believed that in the early centuries, Scotts were the leggings trendsetters, later leggings became common in Europe and Native America as well. Previously the material used to make leggings was leather. Men used to wear them on various occasions ranging from fur trapping, mountaineering, and hunting to wearing them on military occasions and even casually. Traces of its use by the US Army in world war II are also found.
A Recent History of Leggings
At the beginning of the 1960s, they were introduced as a fashion trend. With a modified form that is tighter & stretchier than the original, it was instantly adopted by fitness enthusiast women. Also, it was used to keep the body warm during chilly winters. People used to wear this as a piece of garment inside bottom wear.
In the later decades (1970-1990), it became a fully-fledged fashion statement that went well with miniskirts and high heels. By the time it became fashion staples, and from fitness and aerobics, it reached to: 'Leggings can pair up with anything' People went crazy for black, shiny, and very tight high-waist leggings.
Although, in the late 90s, leggings saw a decline in popularity, by the 2000s, due to the super comfy feeling and versatility, they became a go-to bottom garment for lounging, shopping, exercising. Keeping in view, the peak of popularity, the fashion industry made various alterations in the outward visage of leggings.
Nowadays, leggings are available in great variety and styles and can be printed with patterns or can be mocked animal prints. Printed legging are made up of soft and comfortable fabrics. We’ll explain some of the more famous types of leggings.
Types of Leggings
Leggings are the type of stretchable and close-fitting trousers. They are available in several styles, kinds, and fabric. To explore types of leggings, let's dive a little deeper:
Full-Length Leggings
Full-length leggings are the most common type of leggings you see everyday. They provide full coverage of your legs up to or past your ankle. Full-length leggings are similar to footless tights.
Calf Length Leggings
Known as 'Capri Leggings'. The length of these leggings is short and they just cover the half-length of the calf. Calf length leggings give style to gym outfit and are the best choice to wear in summer seasons.
Stirrup Leggings
These leggings have a ‘stirrup’ or loop, that pegs under the foot arch. This hook or peg helps the legging to stay in perfect position rather than ride up. Stirrup leggings give a perfect close fit and style to the wearer, and they look gorgeous with boots.
Footed Leggings
Footed leggings cover the foot due to which they are mistaken as tights. Footed leggings are different from tights as they are thicker.
Knee Length Leggings
Knee-length leggings, as their name suggests, are of short length that sits below the knee crease. They're the perfect choice for summer time activities such as the going to the beach, cycling, or hiking.
Must-Have Leggings
After the detailed notion of diverse style and kinds of leggings now, one can get a good idea about that which and what type of leggings will complement the clothing style, and one can choose the right one according to the body type.
If you are looking for the perfect pair of leggings, but a bit confused about what to choose among such a voluminous variety? Which style is evergreen? And which style compliments most clothing types? Do not worry, we have classified must-have leggings styles only for you. Let's check them out:
Plain Black Leggings
Black leggings are the chief part of every girl’s wardrobe. Irrespective of the length, a pair or two of black plain leggings is an assorted item of attire that could be worn with just about anything.
Printed Leggings
Printed leggings will add color, diversity, and often a little extra texture to any collective. Absolutely anything can be printed on leggings, from robotic legs, to nature , and to abstract art. These look awesome with oversized tops and gives an effortless urban style.
Patterned Leggings
If you want to add some extra fun and style to any casual outfit, patterned leggings will be the best choice. Ditzy prints, sparkling patterns, and cute embroidery on pattern leggings can add a jiff of gothic glam to the overall attire.
Fleece & Thermal Leggings
These are an eccentric addition to any winter wardrobe. The fleece lining aids to protect against the fall cold and winter chills that too without feeling bulky and restrictive.
Metallic Leggings
Metallic Leggings add a prompt dash of glamour and sparkle to any outfit. These leggings go flawlessly with an ostentatious tunic top or attire. These are perfect to add a contemporary retro-futuristic edge to the evening outfits.
Jeggings
Jeggings, as their name suggests are the cross between leggings and skinny jeans.These can be made from denim or can be in form of a printed leggings. Their unique look makes them pleasant and unique because when one wants the look of denim and the comfort of leggings, jeggings are the ideal choice.
Tips for Leggings Styling
Leggings are versatile and can be worn with anything, but there are few tips for styling them.
Dress as per Your Body Shape
As we know that body shape matters in overall personality, so always choose the right leggings according to your body shape. If you have an ‘apple’ or ‘pear’ shape body, wear leggings with long tops or shirts. Also, if you want to make your thick legs appear slimmer, consider choosing ankle-length leggings and paired them with high heels that will give the elongated look to your legs.
Balance Printed Leggings with Block Colors
For printed leggings, always pair them with decorative tops that have plenty of texture, this will to avert the outfit from looking insipid.
Pick the Right Footwear
Leggings are a transitional piece of clothing that can be outfitted up or down. They look attractive with sneakers or pumps, and look gorgeous with high-heels or boots. Just be sure to pick the right footwear according to the occasion.