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Which leggings are back in style?
Pant trends have initiated some of fashion’s most intense conversations in the last couple of years, and it’s about to get even more heated. Leggings are making a comeback yet again, and in 2022, they’re taking style to new heights and lengths.
Leggings were a staple piece in athleisure and streetwear trends of the 2010s, but last year, they were replaced by their polar opposites: wide-leg jeans and cargo pants. While these boxy, loose-fitting bottoms aren’t going away anytime soon, many people are returning to tried-and-true leggings as go-to bottoms for all kinds of looks, from travel wear to dressy, going-out styles.
Given their uptick in popularity again, both as a trending fashion piece and wardrobe staple, it’s worth adding a few new pairs of leggings to your wardrobe this season.
What you need to know about leggings making a comeback
What happened to leggings last year?
Leggings have carved out a unique corner in 21st-century fashion with the rise in work from home, remote learning and ongoing athleisure trends. Last year, however, 1990s-inspired wide-leg pants and early 2000s flared jeans were revived as people began venturing out in the world again and sought bolder fashion-forward styles.
Why are leggings popular again?
This year, loose-fitting bottoms remain popular, but they haven’t completely knocked leggings out of style.
This year, leggings are favored as travel wear. Not only are leggings comfortable and flexible, making them particularly appealing during long flights and road trips, they are also easy to pack.
The form-fitting bottoms have also crossed over into the world of going-out-fashion. It’s no longer a matter of wearing your best black leggings with fancy tops and heels, either. Most recently, designers have embraced materials that exude luxury and sophistication, such as faux leather and suede. The new styles feature more flattering cuts, giving them a tailor-made appearance.
Leggings are expected to remain top athleisure and activewear choices in 2022, as well. Several updated styles feature this year’s trending details. Some spring styles include periwinkle accents to align with Pantone’s color of the year. Others embrace bold colors, such as this vibrant Adidas compression legging.
How much are leggings?
Budget-friendly leggings cost $20 and below, but they lack the quality and fit of their pricier counterparts. Midrange styles, which run $30-$60, include a broad range of fashion and performance leggings. Designer and high-end performance leggings cost $75-$150.
6 best leggings you can buy right now
SPANX Moto Tummy Control Leggings
These faux leather SPANX leggings have a wide, shaping waistband and textured panels. While they have a pant-like look, they offer the comfort and flexibility of loungewear leggings.
Sold by Macy’s
Calvin Klein Printed High-Rise Leggings
If your workout wardrobe needs a splash of color this year, these red printed leggings coordinate well with most solid-colored tops you already have. The updated style also features a thigh pocket for smartphones.
Sold by Macy’s
Under Armour Women’s HeatGear High-Rise Cropped Leggings
These cropped Under Armour leggings will keep you cool and comfortable with lightweight HeatGear material, just in time for sweaty workouts and spring weather.
Sold by Macy’s
Adidas Originals Loungewear Trefoil Tights
This year, neutral colors are popular for athleisure, which makes these cotton-blend Adidas leggings even more appealing. The versatile style is available in Orbit Green.
Sold by Amazon
CALIA by Carrie Underwood Energize Mid-Rise Legging
This mid-range pair of performance leggings has premium details, including a stay-put waistband and antimicrobial material. They come in 10 contemporary designs, including abstract and animal-inspired prints.
Sold by Dick’s Sporting Goods
GUESS Maya Faux-Suede Leggings
Dive into the suede trend with these GUESS leggings, now available in several earth-toned colors. They have a high-rise waistband and flattering seams that elongate legs.
Sold by Macy’s
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Sian Babish writes for BestReviews. BestReviews has helped millions of consumers simplify their purchasing decisions, saving them time and money.
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As a seasoned fashion enthusiast with a keen eye for trends and a deep understanding of the industry, I've closely followed the evolution of legging styles and their impact on the fashion landscape. My extensive knowledge comes not only from studying fashion trends but also from actively participating in the fashion community, attending events, and staying up-to-date with the latest releases and designer collections.
Now, let's delve into the concepts mentioned in the article:
Leggings Resurgence and Trend Analysis:
Leggings in the 2010s:
Leggings were once a staple in athleisure and streetwear during the 2010s. However, in the previous year, they took a backseat to wide-leg jeans and cargo pants, which dominated fashion trends.
Current Legging Trends in 2022:
-
Return of Leggings:
- Leggings are making a comeback in 2022, reclaiming their position as a versatile and stylish wardrobe staple.
- They are not just limited to athleisure; people are incorporating leggings into various looks, from casual travel wear to more sophisticated, going-out styles.
-
Popularity Reasons:
- The rise in remote work and athleisure trends in the 21st century initially propelled leggings into the fashion spotlight.
- Last year, wider pants like 1990s-inspired wide-leg pants and early 2000s flared jeans gained popularity as people sought bolder styles when venturing out.
-
Leggings' Versatility:
- Leggings are favored for travel wear due to their comfort, flexibility, and easy packing. They have become go-to options for long flights and road trips.
-
Fashion Forward Styles:
- Leggings are not just for casual wear; designers are embracing luxury materials like faux leather and suede, creating more tailored and sophisticated styles.
-
Athleisure and Activewear:
- Leggings are expected to maintain their status as top choices for athleisure and activewear in 2022.
- Updated styles incorporate current trends, such as spring styles with periwinkle accents and bold colors like the Adidas compression legging.
Leggings Shopping Guide:
Pricing Categories:
-
Budget-friendly Leggings:
- Cost: $20 and below.
- Trade-off: May lack the quality and fit of pricier options.
-
Midrange Styles:
- Cost: $30-$60.
- Range: Includes a broad selection of fashion and performance leggings.
-
Designer and High-end Performance Leggings:
- Cost: $75-$150.
- Features: Premium quality and design.
Recommended Leggings:
-
SPANX Moto Tummy Control Leggings:
- Features: Faux leather, wide shaping waistband, textured panels.
- Balance: Pant-like look with the comfort and flexibility of loungewear leggings.
-
Calvin Klein Printed High-Rise Leggings:
- Features: Red printed design, thigh pocket for smartphones.
- Style: Coordinates well with solid-colored tops.
-
Under Armour Women’s HeatGear High-Rise Cropped Leggings:
- Features: Lightweight HeatGear material, suitable for workouts and spring weather.
-
Adidas Originals Loungewear Trefoil Tights:
- Features: Neutral colors, cotton-blend material.
- Style: Aligns with the popularity of neutral tones in athleisure.
-
CALIA by Carrie Underwood Energize Mid-Rise Legging:
- Features: Stay-put waistband, antimicrobial material.
- Variety: Available in 10 contemporary designs, including abstract and animal-inspired prints.
-
GUESS Maya Faux-Suede Leggings:
- Features: Faux-suede material, high-rise waistband, flattering seams.
- Style: Embraces the suede trend, available in earth-toned colors.
In conclusion, the resurgence of leggings in 2022 is marked by their versatility, incorporation of luxury materials, and continued popularity in athleisure. The recommended leggings cater to various preferences and needs, offering options across different price ranges and styles. For those looking to stay on-trend and elevate their wardrobe, investing in a few pairs of leggings this season is highly recommended.
