As well as being quite possibly the most comfortable pants ever, leggings are also incredibly versatile. Not only are they perfect for the gym, but they can also suit a range of other outfits, including athleisure, casual and smart casual ensembles. Of course, making your leggings look great for any occasion is all about how you style them.
In particular, your footwear plays an essential role in how your leggings are perceived. So, to help you look awesome while feeling comfy, we’ve rounded up a selection of the best shoes to wear with leggings. From classic sneakers to chic loafers, these footwear options have you covered almost any outing.
1. Lace-Up Sneakers
Lace-up sneakers are without a doubt the easiest shoes to pair with leggings. Thanks to the sporty aesthetic of both leggings and sneakers, the combination works perfectly together. Although you can wear the look in a variety of ways, it appears particularly chic when styled with an athletic edge. To nail the style, start with a pair of sports leggings and minimal sneakers. Then, add a fitted, high-neck crop top and cap. You can also add jewellery, such as hoop earrings for an extra dose of attitude.
2. Slip-On Sneakers
Lace-up sneakers aren’t the only type of sneakers that look great with leggings. Slip-on sneakers can also appear seriously stylish with these minimal pants. While still looking somewhat sporty like traditional designs, slip-on styles have a more minimal aesthetic. As such, they project a more casual and relaxed vibe, making them ideal for weekend ensembles. So, next time you need to run some Sunday errands and want to look good doing so, try teaming a pair of leggings with some slip-on sneakers. A simple crop top and cosy coat will complete the look perfectly.
3. Loafers
Loafers can make a surprisingly stylish footwear option to wear with leggings. Thanks to their chic and polished appearance, they can be used to dress leggings up for a smart appearance. If you’re unsure how to wear the combination, try teaming it with a long, button-up shirt in a fashionable print. For added polish, you can also throw a blazer on over the top. The resulting look will be sophisticated and stylish yet comfortable and laid-back.
4. Slides
Want to look effortlessly cool when rocking your favourite leggings? All you need to do is add a pair of slides. These simple, slip-on shoes are the perfect blend of sporty and street. Therefore, they make an excellent choice for achieving an on-trend athleisure appearance. So, next time you need an outfit that’ll stylishly see you through both yoga and brunch, be sure to try this combination. While it can work with a variety of options on top, we love it with a simple tee and cosy yet chic oversized sweater.
5. Over-the-Knee Boots
In winter, you can’t go wrong pairing leggings with over-the-knee boots. The look is not only stylish but can also be seriously sexy. So, instead of relying on your black, skinny jeans for nights out, consider a pair of leggings instead. As well as being more comfortable than jeans, leggings will also fit better beneath slim boots. To nail the look, try teaming your leggings and long boots with a slim-cut, turtleneck sweater and cropped leather jacket for an edgy all-black outfit.
6. Ankle Boots
Ankle boots are a classic and chic footwear option that can work with a variety of pants, including leggings. While they look great with standard leggings, you should also consider trying them with a leather pair. By teaming black, heeled ankle boots with leather leggings, you’ll instantly have an edgy and on-trend outfit. Just pair the combination with a black, long-sleeve bodysuit and chic cape for a gorgeous outfit that can easily take you from day to night.
7. Heels
Think heels don’t work with leggings? Think again. Pumps can actually partner perfectly with leggings for a stylish look. The key to making the outfit work is to strike a balance. As leggings and heels make your bottom half appear long and lean, try offsetting them with something looser on top. In particular, a long shirt that finishes at the top of your thighs can work fabulously with leggings and heels. You can also add a loose sweater or chunky jacket over the top if the weather’s cold.
8. Ballet Flats
Thanks to their simple and slim design, ballet flats work perfectly with leggings. As such, the combination should be your go-to for a look that’s casual yet chic. When it comes to deciding what to wear on top, the choice is yours. You could try a crop top and leather jacket, a sweater dress, a chambray shirt and scarf or something else. As your pants and shoes will be minimal, you’ll be free to experiment with your top half.
9. Sandals
It may surprise you, but sandals can look fantastic when worn with leggings. The trick to successfully rocking the combination is all about finding the right style. To start with, try opting for flats for casual daytime outfits and heeled designs for nighttime party ensembles. Then, you can choose your specific style. Consider simple sandals with minimal straps for a chic look and bolder multi-strap designs for an edgier appearance.
10. Knee-High Boots
A pair of leggings teamed with knee-high boots makes for a cute autumn or winter outfit. To keep things casual, choose a pair of flat boots in either suede or leather. Then, add an oversized sweater and finish things off with a cute hat, such as a beanie or baker boy cap. While this outfit can be chic and comfy for all ladies, it can make an especially great choice for those who are pregnant.
FAQs :
What kind of shoes look good with leggings?
Leggings look great with a variety of shoes. Embrace an athleisurewear look by pairing them with lace-up or slip-on sneakers. Slides and sandals also offer a different kind of casual feel, which is excellent for the warmer months. If you're looking to wear them to the office, or for smart-casual occasions, throw on a pair of heels, ballet flats, or loafers for an easy, yet sophisticated vibe. Lastly, for a bit more of a sexy image, a pair of boots work great. Try ankle boots, knee-high, or even over-the-knee for something extra special.
What shoes not to wear with leggings?
Shoes to avoid when wearing leggings include sock-style boots, flip-flops, and closed shoes with ankle straps.
What do you wear with leggings?
Leggings are incredibly versatile and look great with lots of outfit combinations. Try a crop-top and sneakers for a sporty look, or opt for an oversize tee and sandals for more casual weekend vibes. Dress your leggings up with a flowy, oversize white blouse, cute clutch, and heels, making a perfect date night outfit. In the winter, throw on an oversized coat, a stylish pair of boots, and a turtle neck for effortless sophistication, or head to the office in a sweater/button-down combo with loafers. The options are endless and only limited by your imagination.
