When it comes to finding the right black leggings, it’s safe to say our ambassador Molly knows a thing or two! As a yoga instructor, fitness lover and loyal TSE customer, Molly has tried and tested her fair share of legging styles and brands.
If you follow Molly on instagram, you’ll also know that she is an absolute style leader who loves making the most of her wardrobe staples. Whether she’s styling athleisure for brunch or getting glam for a dinner date, her hero pieces always transcend occasions.
So who better to curate our Black Leggings styling guide! Over to you Molly…
WHY BLACK LEGGINGS?
I have been styling activewear on and off the mat for years and when it comes to versatile wardrobe staples, my number one item has to be the black legging. Why?
They’re comfortable
Second skin comfort without compromising on style. Sounds too good to be true right? Fortunately not. Find the right pair and you’ll always be excited to wear them.
They’re versatile
Styling made easy. Thanks to the colour and style, a good black legging will pair with literally anything! Dress them up for a classy look, or keep it casual for an effortless athleisure look.
BEST BLACK LEGGINGS: WHAT TO LOOK FOR
What I’ve learnt over the years is that the best black leggings always tick the following three boxes:
1. Good quality
- If you want leggings that go the distance (literally and stylistically), it’s all about quality over quantity. Invest in fewer, better styles that will move with you and wash well without losing their shape. Remember to squat test in the mirror to check the legging’s opacity - it’s hard to elevate your look when your underwear is on show!
2. Enduring comfort
- Looking for a truly versatile black legging? Then you want to be comfortable while walking, sitting, stretching and running for the bus in them! Test them out with all of these moves in mind. Are they compressive enough to be flattering, but not so compressive that you can’t do your Pilates core work? If the answer is yes, then you could be on to a winner.
3. High waistband
- Whatever your height, a high waisted legging is a must. A high waistband is super flattering, will stay put if you’re working out, and will outfit well with a range of styles, from cropped tees to oversized tops.
Alongside the gorgeous girls at The Sports Edit we have done the work for you and picked our favourite black leggings that will elevate your wardrobe and outfits.
TOP 5 BLACK LEGGINGS BRANDS IN 2022
I’ve been an ambassador for The Sports Edit (TSE) for over three years now. TSE stocks over 50 of the world’s finest activewear brands, so I am spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing good quality black leggings.
I have tried all of TSE’s brands and truly put them through paces. So I can honestly say I know what works for me and what doesn’t. When it comes to the best of black leggings, these are the five activewear brands that never let me down:
For this guide, I opted for the Alo Yoga 'Airlift' Leggings as my hero TSE legging. I love this legging because it’s incredible for workouts - from HIIT to power yoga - but also chic enough to style off the mat.
The quality of the fabric is brilliant, as you’d expect from LA brand Alo Yoga. Sweat wicking, slightly compressive, soft and breathable. Plus the waistband (as you might guess from the name) is super high and flattering.
The Alo Airlift Leggings also come in full length, 7/8 or capri length - so you'll find the perfect pair whatever your height.
HOW TO STYLE YOUR BLACK LEGGINGS
So you have chosen your hero black leggings… now onto the fun part! Here’s my guide to styling 1 pair of black leggings 5 ways:
Blazer Chic
If you’ve followed me for a while, you’ll know that one of my favourite pieces of outerwear is a blazer. This camel tone blazer is the perfect pairing for these Alo Yoga Airlift Leggings. I have styled it as a post-yoga look, where you could literally throw on your blazer straight after class and hit up lunch with the girls! For a more polished look, try adding a shirt (tucked in) or a cosy knit under the blazer.
All Black
When I'm feeling uninspired or short on time, monotone is my fail safe for looking effortlessly put together. Simply air your leggings with your favourite black tee, jacket and shoes. As easy as 1-2-3 and you’re good to go.
Winter Boots
If you’re the kind of person who thinks ‘comfort-first’ when styling an outfit, then this one is for you. Practical yet cool, a chunky winter boot will make you street-style ready. Team with effortless layers, such as an oversized knit, sweatshirt or jacket.
Athleisure Layers
Hoodie, check! Puffer coat, check! Wooly socks, check! (Extra socks hidden from view, check!) For those extra chilly days, black leggings are still the perfect item to style. Because of their snug, figure hugging element, you are free to bulk up with all your warmest layers and still achieve a balanced stylish OOTD! Pair with chunky trainers for an effortless athleisure look.
Glam Heels
How versatile can one piece of clothing be? When the leggings are as well made as these Varley ones, you can go full throttle and pair them with heels. Trust us! Leggings plus heels can achieve the ultimate date-night look - effortless yet sophisticated. If you want to level up the glam further, pair with your favourite sparkly crop top.
Head to our Black Leggings Edit to find your perfect pair.
