Leggings at work. Yes, it's possible!
Leggings have become a staple in many women’s wardrobes for their versatility, comfort, and ease of wear. I find myself reaching for leggings over jeans most of these days!
However, the question of whether leggings are appropriate for the workplace is still a hot debate and, frankly, somewhat controversial too. Today, we’ll be exploring the topic of leggings at work and provide you with tips on how to strike a balance between comfort and professionalism.
We’ll dive deep into how to wear leggings at work, including the best tops and shoes to pair them with, ways to accessorize, and what not to wear with them.
I’ll even include business casual leggings and you shop now and wear to work immediately. So, let’s get started and find the perfect balance between comfort and professionalism with leggings at work!
Disclosure: Vain Affair is reader-supported. When you buy through affiliate links on our website, we’ll make a small commission, without impacting your price. Thank you. Learn more.
In This Post ➜
How To Wear Leggings At Work | 5 Simple & Easy Ways
Leggings can be a comfortable and stylish option for work, but it’s important to wear them in a way that’s appropriate for your workplace. Here are five simple ways to wear leggings at work:
- Pair them with a long top or tunic: Wearing a long top or tunic with leggings is a great way to make them look more professional. Look for tops that cover your hips and bottom, and choose materials like cotton or silk for a more polished look. Some places don’t like how leggings can accentuate the bum, which makes it too “revealing.” *rolls eyes* So, if you’re worried about that, just throw on a long top to skim over that area.
- Layer with a blazer or cardigan: Adding a blazer or cardigan to your leggings outfit can instantly make it look more put together. Opt for tailored blazers and structured cardigans to keep your look professional.
- Wear a work-appropriate dress: This is honestly the easiest way to wear leggings. A nice sheath dress will pair wonderfully with leggings. Plus, it will keep your legs warm in the cold office or cold weather.
- Wear them with ankle boots or loafers: Shoes can make or break an outfit, and this is especially true when it comes to leggings at work. Ankle boots or loafers are a great choice for a professional look, but avoid sneakers or sandals, which may be too casual.
- Choose high-quality leggings: Not all leggings are created equal. Look for high-quality leggings that are made from thicker materials and have a more structured fit. Avoid leggings that are too tight or sheer, as they may not be appropriate for work.
- Accessorize with statement pieces: Adding statement accessories like a statement necklace or scarf can instantly elevate your leggings outfit. Choose accessories that complement your outfit and make a statement without being too distracting.
By following these simple tips, you can wear leggings to work in a way that’s both comfortable and professional. Just remember to check your company’s dress code and ensure that your outfit is appropriate for your workplace.
Tops To Wear With Leggings At Work
When it comes to wearing leggings at work, choosing the right top is crucial for creating a professional look. Here are some appropriate top choices to pair with leggings:
- Tunic tops: Tunic tops are a great choice for leggings, as they provide plenty of coverage and have a relaxed, flowy fit. Look for tunics in more structured fabrics like cotton or silk, and pair them with ankle boots or loafers for a polished look.
- Blouses: Blouses are a versatile option for leggings, and can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. Choose blouses with clean lines and minimal patterns, and avoid anything too casual or revealing.
- Button-up shirts: Ah, the classic workwear top that you can never go wrong with. Button-up shirts can give your leggings outfit a more professional edge. Look for shirts in classic colors like white or blue, and choose fabrics like cotton or linen for a more polished look.
- Oversized sweaters: Oversized sweaters can be a cozy and stylish option for leggings in the colder months. Look for sweaters with a longer length to provide coverage, and pair them with ankle boots or loafers for a more put-together look.
By choosing the right top, you can create a professional and stylish look that’s perfect for the office.
Shoes To Wear With Leggings At Work
Choosing the right shoes to wear with leggings at work is just as important as choosing the right top. Never underestimate the power of a great pair of shoes!
Here are some tips on the best types of shoes to wear with leggings, and when to wear them:
- Flats: Flats are a comfortable and practical option for wearing with leggings. Ballet flats or loafers can add a touch of sophistication to your outfit
- Ankle boots: Ankle boots are a great choice for colder weather, and can provide more coverage and support than flats. Look for boots with a chunky heel or a pointed toe for a dressier look.
- Heels: If your workplace allows it, heels can be a stylish option for dressing up your leggings outfit. Choose heels with a thicker heel or a lower height for comfort and stability, and pair them with a simple top and accessories to keep the focus on your shoes.
Remember to consider your workplace dress code when choosing shoes to wear with leggings. While some workplaces may allow sneakers or sandals, others may require closed-toe shoes or dressier options.
Ways To Accessorize With Leggings At Work
When it comes to dressing up leggings for the workplace, accessories can make all the difference. It’s the small details that can really take a basic outfit to the next level.
Here are a few tips for accessorizing your leggings outfit:
- Wear a belt: Adding a belt to your leggings outfit can help define your waist and create a more polished silhouette. Choose a thin leather or chain belt to keep things understated.
- Opt for statement jewelry: Jewelry can take any outfit to the next level, and leggings are no exception. A chunky necklace, bold earrings, or a stack of bangles can all add interest to your outfit. If statement jewelry is not your style, try minimal gold jewelry instead. This will add a touch of understated shine to any outfit.
- Wear a blazer: A blazer is a classic choice for dressing up any outfit, including leggings. Choose a fitted blazer in a neutral color to keep your look professional. You can even go for classic fabrics, such as tweed or wool. Classic patterns like houndstooth will work too!
- Choose the right bag: Your bag can make or break your leggings outfit. Opt for a structured tote or shoulder bag in a neutral color to keep things professional.
- Add a scarf: A scarf is a versatile accessory that can instantly make your leggings outfit more professional. Opt for a silk or cotton scarf in a neutral color to add a touch of sophistication to your look.
By accessorizing your leggings outfit, you can make it work-appropriate and stylish at the same time.
Business Casual Leggings
Leggings have become a popular wardrobe staple in recent years, but are they appropriate for the workplace? The answer is yes and there’s plenty of professional-looking leggings that you can wear straight to work (and even transition straight to the gym!).
Business casual leggings are a comfortable and stylish option for those who want to feel relaxed yet professional at work. Here are some tips for incorporating leggings into your business casual attire:
- Look for leggings made from thicker, more structured fabrics such as ponte or twill. Avoid leggings made from athletic or sheer materials.
- Stick to neutral colors such as black, navy, or gray. Bold prints or bright colors may be too distracting for the workplace.
- Pair your leggings with a longer top or tunic to ensure adequate coverage. Aim for a length that hits mid-thigh or below.
- Consider adding a blazer or cardigan to your outfit to create a more polished look.
- Opt for closed-toe shoes such as flats, loafers, or ankle boots. Avoid wearing athletic shoes or flip-flops with your leggings.
Here are some cute business casual leggings that you can add to your wardrobe today!
Is It OK To Wear Leggings To Work?
Ultimately, the answer to whether it’s OK to wear leggings to work depends on your company’s dress code. Some companies have strict dress codes that prohibit leggings, while others may allow them if they’re paired with appropriate tops and accessories.
If your workplace allows leggings, it’s still important to be mindful of how you wear them. Leggings that are too tight or sheer can be seen as inappropriate for work, while leggings that are too casual may not give off a professional vibe.
When considering whether to wear leggings to work, think about the nature of your job and the environment you work in. If you work in a creative industry, leggings may be more acceptable than if you work in a more traditional, corporate environment.
Remember, you want to feel comfortable and confident, but you also want to make sure you’re dressed professionally.
So, if you’re wondering if it’s OK to wear leggings to work, the answer is: it depends. Check your company’s dress code, and if leggings are allowed, make sure to wear them in a way that’s appropriate for your workplace.
With the right styling, leggings can be a comfortable and stylish addition to your work wardrobe.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Leggings Be Against A Work Dress Code?
Yes, some companies may have dress codes that prohibit leggings in the workplace. It’s important to check with your company’s HR department or dress code policy to see if leggings are allowed.
What Are The Benefits Of Wearing Leggings To Work?
There are several benefits to wearing leggings to work, including:
- Comfort: Leggings are often made from stretchy and breathable materials that are comfortable to wear for long periods.
- Versatility: Leggings can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion, making them a versatile choice for the workplace.
- Affordability: Leggings are often less expensive than other types of pants, making them a cost-effective option for workwear.
- Ease of movement: Leggings allow for a full range of motion, which can be beneficial for those with physically demanding jobs or those who need to move around frequently in their workplace.
When Should You Not Wear Leggings?
While leggings can be a comfortable and stylish choice for many occasions, there are times when they may not be appropriate for the workplace. Here are some situations when you may want to avoid wearing leggings:
- Formal business meetings or presentations: When you need to dress more formally for a business meeting or presentation, leggings may not be the best choice.
- Conservative workplaces: If your workplace has a conservative dress code, leggings may not be considered appropriate attire.
- Client-facing roles: If you work in a client-facing role, you may want to avoid wearing leggings to maintain a professional appearance.
Is It Socially Acceptable To Wear Leggings As Pants?
The question of whether leggings can be worn as pants have been a hot and controversial debate for years! While some people feel that leggings are perfectly acceptable as pants, others believe that they should only be worn as a layering piece or under a longer top or dress.
When it comes to the workplace, the answer may depend on your company’s dress code and culture. Some workplaces may have specific policies around leggings or may consider them inappropriate as pants. It’s important to check your company’s policies and use your best judgement to ensure that you’re presenting a professional image in the workplace.
Leggings can be a comfortable and stylish choice for the workplace, but it’s important to strike a balance between comfort and professionalism. By following the tips outlined in this post, you can wear leggings to work in a way that is appropriate and stylish.
Remember to choose tops and shoes that complement your leggings and avoid items that may not be suitable for the workplace. With the right accessories and attention to detail, leggings can be a great addition to your work wardrobe.
So go ahead and experiment with different styles, but always keep in mind that the workplace requires a certain level of professionalism!
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Disclosure: Vain Affair is reader-supported. When you buy through affiliate links on our website, we’ll make a small commission, without impacting your price. Thank you. Learn more.
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