Are you stuck in a style rut, staring at yoga pants in your drawer? You wonder how to wear leggings to work and stay office-appropriate. Leggings started as active wear but now appear on fashion runways and in boardrooms.
This post will guide you to pair leggings with a tunic or a blazer. It will show you how to pick thick fabrics that do not show skin. It will also point to dark shades that look sharp.
You will learn to add statement jewelry and a structured handbag. You will explore looks with loafers and pointed heels. Read on.
Key Takeaways
- Choose thick, opaque leggings in stretch-cotton blends or vegan leather from brands like Everlane, H&M, Encircled, Frank and Oak, and Eileen Fisher; skip sheer tights, mesh panels, or cropped cuts.
- Pair full-length leggings with a tunic or an oversized blazer that covers at least four inches below your hips, and add loafers or low heels for a polished finish.
- Stick to dark neutrals—black, navy, charcoal—or dark denim jeggings, and balance the look with cream or white tops and crisp lines.
- Try outfit combos like faux-leather leggings under an oversized sweater with ankle boots or a long tunic with penny loafers, Chelsea boots, or pointed heels.
- Elevate your ensemble with statement jewelry (bold earrings, a chunky necklace, or a cuff) and a structured handbag to sharpen your business-casual style.
Guidelines for Wearing Leggings to Work
Pick leggings with thick fabric and top them off with a sharp jacket that means business. Turn the page to find out how to mix smart hues, crisp lines, and a sleek bag for an office-ready look.
Choose thicker, non-see-through fabrics
Office leggings need fabric that hides underlayers. Stylist Scarlett De Bease flags sheer tights as a clear miss. Choose stretch cotton mixes or vegan leather pants for a chic feel.
Dark, full-length leather leggings make any business casual leggings outfit look sharp. Skip skin-colored or ultra-thin pairs.
Avoid cropped cuts or mesh panels that shout off-duty. Full-length, dense stocks fit like trousers. Solid black leggings smooth the outline under a long blazer or crisp shirt. These work leggings pair well with low heels or loafers for a polished work outfit.
Pair with long, structured tops or blazers
Pick a tunic that covers your backside. It must fall at least four inches below the top of your leggings. Offer a crisp look with an oversized cotton blazer that hits mid thigh. Slip on black, quality leggings in thick, fully opaque fabric.
This pairing works for business casual outfits in an office environment.
Use a measuring tape to check the front and back coverage. Take a blouse with long sleeves in a stretch knit. A coat that hits the middle of your thigh seals the deal. The structured piece adds form to a stretchy base.
Combine this with ankle boots or loafers to complete your employee’s office wear.
Stick to neutral or dark colors for a polished look
Solid blacks, deep navies, and charcoal grays form the base of any leggings outfit for work. They fit with a crisp shirt or a long blazer. Dark denim jeggings blend stretch and structure.
They match smart footwear like loafers or heeled boots.
Neutrals ground professional attire with a right top in cream or white. Outfit ideas like a chic blazer can freshen up a dark base. Brands like Everlane, H&M, Encircled, Frank and Oak, and Eileen Fisher deliver durable textiles.
Business Casual Legging Outfit Ideas
Swap jeans for faux-leather leggings, toss on a crisp dress shirt under a chunky crewneck, then step into Chelsea boots for a polished, comfy twist. Peek ahead for clever pairings with cardigans, penny loafers, and sharp blazers.
Style with an oversized sweater and ankle boots
The Black Elevate Leggings sit under a white oversized tee. A beige knit sweater drapes over the shoulders. Brown ankle boots tie the look together. This combo pairs slim leggings with a chunky shoe for balance.
Slip a structured handbag over your arm. Add a simple pendant necklace. The look suits a day at your desk or a casual Friday. It keeps comfort and professional style.
Pair with a tunic and loafers for a professional vibe
Inside the workplace, a long tunic must cover your backside and front. It meets the dress code right on point. A tunic with roomy sides flows like a sail in a breeze. You slip into buttery loafers; these slip-on shoes add a neat frame to your business casual attire.
This pair of leggings at work blends a casual look with a sharp edge.
A black turtleneck and plain black leggings stand in as a uniform for cool days. A trench coat adds drama and warmth. Pair with chunky loafers or boots; it feels like your new armor. Pointed heels lift the look.
Mary Janes add a retro wink. Open-toe sandals feel current; they slip on in a flash.
Accessorizing Leggings for the Office
Flash a bold cuff or a sleek watch on your wrist, and your look pops to life. Swap that slouchy tote for a firm crossbody bag, and tune in for more styling tips.
Add statement jewelry to elevate the look
Bold earrings catch the eye; they lift your outfit. A chunky necklace shapes your neckline; it ties an oversized blazer to leggings. A cuff bracelet adds weight to a simple tunic; it plays with proportions.
Statement jewelry creates a professional look in casual wear.
A waist-cinching belt around a cardigan sharpens your waist. It turns a flowy top and faux leather leggings into office attire. The right necklace can draw attention up; it hides a bulky tunic.
This trick elevates your look from casual to polished.
Use a structured handbag for a refined touch
Add a structured carryall to your leggings and top; it gives your wardrobe a sharp anchor in a sea of soft fabrics. The firm shape holds your phone, wallet, and a small notebook and keeps your hands free.
It tames loose layers, adds a polished line to your casual outfit, and blends athleisure with work attire. Carry the bag over a blazer or cardigan, and step into the office with a fresh, refined vibe.
You sidestep any baggy slump and stand tall in your professional dress.
Takeaways
Leggings can nail business casual with ease. Dark fabrics frame a pro image. Layer on a long tunic or blazer. Keep a steamer handy; it zaps wrinkles in seconds. Finish with loafers or pointed heels.
You get comfort and polish in one.
FAQs on How to Wear Leggings to Work
1. What things to consider when wearing leggings at work?
Leggings are informal wear by nature. For work, choose right leggings that fit smoothly and are not see-through. Think of fit, length, and office rules. Comfort is key.
2. How do I pick the right top to make leggings work for the office?
Pick a long top like a T-shirt, an oversized shirt, or a polo neck. A tank top under a cardigan can also work. These tops cover your hips. They keep things work-appropriate.
3. Can I wear sneakers or boots with leggings to work?
Yes, you can pair sneakers or boots with leggings. A sleek sneaker or canvas shoe works. A high-heeled shoe can lift the look. Look with a pair of socks under boots for a neat feel.
4. Are thermal leggings okay for colder weather in the office?
Yes, thermal leggings block the chill. You can wear them under a skirt or slacks. Add a cardigan or sweater. Comfort is key in colder weather.
5. How can I elevate your look from casual on casual Fridays?
Swap a T-shirt for a high-neck top or a polo neck; tuck it in. Layer a tank top under a cardigan. These small tweaks will elevate your look from casual. You will shine on casual Fridays.
6. What are some dressy yet cute outfits using leggings with pockets?
Try leggings with pockets, an oversized shirt, and a skirt. Add a high-heeled shoe and a sleek sock. This mix is both dressy and cute. It will flatter your form-fitting leggings.
