Figuring out what to wear with leggings, one of the most polarizing pieces in fashion history, has become a key part of the millennial existence. If you’re over the age of 30, the athleisure staple has likely carried you through every major milestone of your life. Even as your tastes change, your best leggings remained a constant.
During high school, we wore flared versions (a.k.a. yoga pants) with North Face jackets and Ugg boots. Then we traded those for ankle-hugging styles that showed off our booties; these became the norm so quickly they even surpassed the omnipresent skinny jeans. In adulthood, the critical eyes of Gen Z made us briefly question this lifelong allegiance to the wardrobe staple. But then quarantine hit and, suddenly, leggings were the most-worn item in our collective closets once more.
And now, in 2026, we’re much better at styling leggings. With the rise of microtrends like corporate sleaze, quiet luxury, and “European summer, today’s leggings are being worn in chicer ways than they ever have before. In fact, they’re so stylish, I’d dare say even Gen Z would approve. Ahead, read on for insider-approved outfit formulas and style tips for what to wear with leggings to be on trend for 2026.
French Girl Corpcore
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