Trends come and go, but some staples stay relevant with each passing year. And I can say with some confidence that leggings will be just as popular this autumn as they have been for the past few decades.
One thing has changed, though: Leggings are no longer restricted to lazy sofa days and low-impact workouts. Fashion people are becoming pretty adventurous with their styling, wearing simple black leggings with everything from structured blazers to slingback heels. We’ve seen office-appropriate looks, evening outfits and casual everyday ensembles, all centred around this basic item. And the best bit? You probably already own and love a great pair of leggings yourself.
The beginning of a new season is the perfect time to start planning fresh looks, but if you’re anything like me, it takes a little while to find your stride and ease out of quick, throw-on dresses and back into layering. That’s why leggings are ideal; they’re just as comfortable as your floatiest summer dress, plus they’re surprisingly easy to build outfits around. And did I mention how they can be dressed up or down, making them a great foundation for almost any winter outfit. What can’t they do!
But don’t just take my word for it. Find out how Instagram’s stylish set will be wearing leggings in 2023 below.
1. Quilted Jacket + Heels
Style Notes: Black heels will instantly dress up your leggings, but a casual oversized jacket will keep the combo from looking too corporate.
Shop the look:
Frankie Shop
Quilted Padded Ripstop Jacket
It’s hard to scroll through Instagram these days without spotting this iconic Frankie Shop coat.
River Island
Black High Waisted Leggings
I like how River Island has styled these basic leggings, too.
Russell & Bromley
On Point Slingback Pump
The only black slingbacks you need.
2. Oversized Shirt + Loafers + Blazer
Style Notes: If you’re not totally comfortable in tight-fitting clothing, pair your leggings with an oversized shirt, blazer and chunky loafers. The result is really timeless.
Shop the look:
This is the best cotton shirt around, hands down.
Arket
Oversized Wool Blend Twill Blazer
The blazer all our editors own.
Leset
Rio Stretch-Ponte Stirrup Leggings
Switch out your simple pair for some sleek stirrup leggings.
M&S has been hitting all the big footwear trends lately.
3. Asymmetric Top + Cardigan
Style Notes: Asymmetric cuts are going to be big news over the next 12 months. Teaming leggings with a one-shoulder crop top will make them instantly more current.
Shop the look:
NA-KD
Organic One Shoulder Crop Rib Top
COS
Oversized Wool V-Neck Cardigan
Use this cardi as the foundation for a cosy monochrome look.
M&S Collection
High Waisted Leggings
I’ll definitely be adding high waist leggings to my collection.
4. Tonal Styling
Style Notes: If you want to look put together with minimal effort, style items of similar shades together. Chocolate brown looks so premium, and is super on-trend.
Shop the look:
Great Plains
Utility Parka
This chocolatey brown shade is so versatile.
Lululemon
Align High-Rise Pant 25″
Just because Lululemon’s were made for workouts, doesn’t mean they can’t be worn out of the gym, too.
Yes, the obsession over UGG boots looks set to continue this year.
5. ’80s Blazer + Pumps
Style Notes: Get ready to see a healthy serving of ’80s style this autumn. A cream blazer with power shoulders or exaggerated lapels will smarten up your plain black leggings.
Shop the look:
The Frankie Shop
Corrin Blazer
Off-white always looks so chic.
H&M+
Cotton Jersey Leggings
So soft you won’t want to take them off.
COS
Pointed Leather Ballet Flats
These are wardrobe staples all year round.
6. Faux Fur Coat + Trainers
Style Notes: The cooler seasons are upon us, so thick longline coats are very much a part of our daily uniform. Opt for faux fur to dial up the warmth, and trainers to finish off the look. You best believe I’ll be wearing this outfit on repeat over the next few months!
Shop the look:
This is sure to keep you cosy.
Norma Kamali
Spat Split-Hem Stretch-Jersey Leggings
I bet split-hem leggings will be everywhere in 2023. Mark my words.
Retro-style New Balance sneakers aren’t going anywhere.
This story was published at an earlier time and has since been updated.
Next Up: The Autumn/Winter Fashion Trends That Really Matter