I know that leggings don't immediately conjure images of chicness, but after years of documenting women with great taste, I've come to realise there are, in fact, plenty of ways to make leggings look polished. One of my favourites? Choosing a fresh, new-season colour instead of defaulting to black.
Putting a particularly chic leggings colour trend on my radar, I just came across a mirror selfie of Cindy Crawford styling the ubiquitous trousers in the prettiest shade of cornflower blue. Unlike black leggings, which can feel decidedly sporty—particularly when rendered in a glossy, Lycra finish—this softer shade brings a gentleness to the look, making the skin-clinging fabric feel altogether less harsh.
(Image credit: @cindycrawford)Worn with a co-ordinating tank top and a tonal jumper slung over her shoulders, Cindy's leggings outfit looked polished and considered—two words I wouldn't always associate with leggings. Whilst Cindy wore hers barefoot, I can imagine the look with a pair of crisp white trainers, adding brightness without creating too stark a contrast.
So, if your MO is to make leggings look chic, take your cues from Cindy and keep scrolling to discover the cornflower-blue pairs I'm recommending now.
Shop Blue Leggings:
Goodmove Go Balance Supersoft Wrap Waist LeggingsThese come in sizes 6—24.
Free People Never Better 7/8 Length LeggingsWhilst I love these in cornflower blue, they also come in 10 other shades.
Adanola Ultimate LeggingsWear these with the matching sports bra or style with a boxy white tee.
Sweaty Betty Power Gym LeggingsShop these in a 7/8 finish or full length cut.
Gymshark Energise Seamless LeggingsAdd a pop of colour to your autumn rotation.
hm Ankle-Length Sports LeggingsShop these whilst they're on sale.
ON Studio Tight Sensetec LeggingsWere these to your next pilates class, or style them with a light grey knit to run errands.
ARNE Active LeggingThese buttery leggings also come in six other shades.
Perfect Moment Seamless Thermal LeggingThe thermal design ensures a snug finish.