Leggings have never really left our wardrobes, but whether or not they feel fashionable is another story. After years of being synonymous with athleisure—and a certain oversize-sweatshirt-and-sneaker formula—the staple is getting a decidedly polished makeover in 2026.

Lately, I've noticed fashion people treating leggings less like workout clothes and more like a sleek alternative to standard wide-leg pants. The key is all in the styling. Instead of piling on sporty basics, they're pairing leggings with pieces that feel particularly current, from polished outerwear and oversize button-downs to ballet flats, loafers, and boots. Suddenly, the same black leggings you've owned for years feel fresh again.

To be honest, that's the appeal of a great legging-forward outfit: You don't need to buy a whole new wardrobe to make them work in 2026. You just need the right outfit formula. Below, I've rounded up five ways fashion people are styling leggings right now that feel cool, elevated, and not dated.

How to Style Leggings in 2026

How to style: wool coat + black leggings + black turtleneck + black ballet flats (Image credit: @lindatol_)Shop the Look

Aritzia The Only Coat

AGOLDE Pascale Stretch-Lyocell Turtleneck Top

Gap Gapfit Smooth High Rise Leggings

AEYDE Ellie Leather Ballet Flats

How to style: greige blazer + black leggings + white T-shirt + black ballet flats (Image credit: @nlmarilyn)Shop the Look

The Frankie Shop Tansy Oversized Blazer

Leset The Margo

hm

Margaux The Fonteyn

How to style: gray T-shirt + black leggings + leather jacket + tote bag (Image credit: @sabinasocol)Shop the Look

J.Crew Boyfriend Jersey Classic-Fit T-Shirt

Alo Alosoft High-Waist 7/8 Highlight Legging

Coach Funnel Neck Leather Blouson

KHAITE Kasia Tote in Black Leather and Natural Canvas

How to style: barn jacket + black leggings + gray sweater + ballet flats + croc-effect bag (Image credit: @anoukyve)Shop the Look

Almina Concept Cotton Barn Jacket

ZARA Knit Jumper With Shoulder Pads

Leset Rio Stretch-Ponte Stirrup Leggings

LIÉ STUDIO The Eva Weekend Croc-Effect Leather Tote

ZARA Leather Bow Ballet Flats

How to style: rugby shirt + black leggings + white headband + Mary Jane flats (Image credit: @nlmarilyn)Shop the Look

COS Striped Cotton Rugby Shirt

Los Angeles Apparel Extra Wide Cotton Spandex Headband

The Row Woolworth Stretch-Ponte Leggings

Zara Leather Ballet Flats