Leggings Are So Back, But We’re Styling Them Differently in 2025

For something that started out as an afterthought—an easy, throw-on piece for workouts or lounging—leggings have spent the last decade solidifying their place as a wardrobe essential. By now, they’re less about function and more about personal style, evolving past their athleisure roots into something far more refined. What’s different about 2025’s take on leggings isn’t just how they’re being worn, but who’s wearing them and what that says about the shift in fashion’s priorities.

Leggings are no longer just an outfit base; they’re a styling tool. They’re not hidden under oversized sweatshirts and puffer jackets, thrown on as an afterthought to a gym session or errand run. Instead, leggings are now front and center, incorporated into polished, structured looks that make a statement beyond comfort.

The best part: The styling updates make them feel completely fresh without requiring an overhaul of what’s already in your closet.

Stirrup Legging Revival

It would be impossible to talk about the 2025 leggings revival without mentioning stirrup leggings. A favorite among those who appreciate an effortless, streamlined silhouette, stirrups re-emerged quietly last year but are now a defining feature of the modern wardrobe. They offer the same second-skin fit as classic leggings but with a directional twist, perfect for slipping into sleek ballet flats or sharply pointed boots.

This version of leggings works best for those who love tailored styling. Instead of pairing them with sneakers or oversized hoodies, the updated stirrup legging is being worn with crisp button-downs, oversized blazers, or structured knitwear. The result is a look that feels polished without veering into overly complicated territory. And for those hesitant to embrace the full stirrup effect, a simple trick is to loop the strap under a barely-there mule, letting just a hint peek out—a quiet nod to the trend without going full ’80s aerobics instructor.

Sheer, Textured, and Unexpected Fabric Choices

The standard black, matte-finish legging will never truly go out of style, but this year’s iterations are leaning into texture. Sheer-paneled styles, ribbed versions, and glossy, almost lacquered finishes are shifting the perception of what leggings can be. Instead of just feeling sporty or casual, these variations bring depth and interest to outfits that might otherwise feel too basic.

Sheer-panel leggings, in particular, have moved beyond the realm of workout gear. Worn under oversized shirts or structured outerwear, they add an element of contrast that makes them feel more intentional.

The trick to pulling this off? Balance.

Sheer leggings paired with a structured wool coat or a heavy knit sweater create a juxtaposition that makes the outfit feel cohesive.

Ribbed styles, on the other hand, are serving a different purpose. They lean into quiet luxury—the kind of piece that looks expensive even when it’s not. The best versions are done in muted tones like deep charcoal, chocolate brown, or rich navy, styled with tonal knits for a sophisticated monochrome look. It’s an effortless way to elevate something as simple as leggings while still keeping things easy to wear.

Layering Leggings Under Dresses and Skirts

At first glance, this one might feel like a throwback to early 2000s layering mishaps, but the execution in 2025 is completely different. This isn’t about an afterthought layering piece; it’s about leggings acting as an intentional styling choice.

The most successful pairings involve contrasts in fabric and structure. Think sheer, slinky leggings under a structured mini dress or thick, opaque styles under a flowing, asymmetrical skirt. The key to making this work is length—leggings should peek out just enough to show intention but not so much that they take over the outfit.

This works particularly well in transitional weather when you want the ease of wearing a dress but need a little extra coverage. Instead of reaching for tights, swapping in leggings provides warmth and comfort while adding a modern edge to an otherwise classic look

The New Way to Wear Leather Leggings

Leather leggings have long been a cold-weather staple, but their 2025 update makes them feel decidedly different. Instead of being styled in the usual “cozy chic” way (think oversized sweaters and knee-high boots), they’re being incorporated into sleeker, more structured outfits.

The best way to wear them now: With sharply tailored coats, fitted blazers, or crisp button-down shirts. The contrast between the slightly edgy feel of leather and the refined nature of structured outerwear gives the outfit an effortless cool. And while black remains a classic, deep espresso browns and muted oxblood shades are offering a fresh alternative.

For those who want to keep things simple, swapping in a sleek, fitted turtleneck or a draped blouse keeps the look elevated without sacrificing comfort. Leather leggings might feel like an intimidating choice, but when styled with pieces that lean into minimalism, they become the kind of wardrobe essential that works for any occasion.

The Unexpected Color Palette of 2025

If 2024 was all about neutrals, 2025 is shifting into a palette that feels surprisingly rich. Chocolate brown, deep aubergine, warm taupe, and even subtle mossy greens are replacing the standard black and grey options.

This color update is particularly effective when paired with similarly toned tops and outerwear. A full monochrome look in deep brown, for example, has an understated sophistication that feels fresh without trying too hard. The shift away from pure black also allows for more playful layering options—something as simple as pairing a muted plum legging with a deep navy sweater creates a tonal look that feels both effortless and current.

For those hesitant to stray too far from black, incorporating these colors in subtle ways—like a deep brown legging with a black coat—keeps things interesting without feeling like too big of a departure.