How To Wear Leggings And Not Look Like You're Hitting The Gym

Leggings get a bad rap. But we still love them, because despite what everybody thinks, they're actually wearable outside of the gym.

But there are two important factors to consider when shopping for comfortable leggings: They must be thick and opaque. Nobody wants to be the person with their underwear showing.

From wearing them to work to rocking them with a frock, here's a style guide to sporting those stretchy goods... without that whole workout business.

Try a pretty pattern, because not all leggings have to be black or gray

Abercrombie & Fitch A&F Patterned Legging, Isabel Marant Turtle Neck Sweater (similar here), Blanco Blazer (similar here), Marni Polished-Leather Brogues, Michael Kors Gold Metal Choker; Photo courtesy: Lookbook.nu/mayowaolutade

Amp up a leggings and sweater combination with a belt

Delia's Heather Grey Leggings, Acne Studios Dames Oversized Boiled Wool Poncho, Acne Womens Jaycee Lamb Leather Loafer Shoes, Madewell Western Belt, Inverni Red Mix Yarn Beanie Hat; Photo courtesy: Lookbook.nu/masterofdetails

Wear a pair to work -- seriously -- with a classy button down and cozy cardigan

Abercrombie & Fitch Laura Faux Leather Legging, River Island Orange Relaxed Waterfall Coat, Repeat Cardigan, James Perse Contrast Panel Shirt, H&M Boots; Photo courtesy: Lookbook.nu/eugeniesblog

Throw a dress over thicker leggings for a comfy outfit

Dorothy Perkins Black Leggings, Sportmax Code Austria Skater Long Sleeve Dress, Dr. Martens Alix 10-Eye Zip Boot, Pieces Leather Backpack, Marc Jacobs Beauty Lust For Lacquer Lip Vinyl; Photo courtesy: Lookbook.nu/zhours

Use your tight leggings as a canvas for lots of draping

H&M High Waist Leggings, Comptoir Des Cotonniers Trench-Cape (similar here), McQ Alexander McQueen Bridle Riding Boots, Wonderland Majoave Sunglasses, Livvy Tartan Scarf (similar here) ; Photo courtesy: Lookbook.nu/masterofdetails

Rock your favorite sneakers, but add some personal details to make it look less athletic

Only Pu Leggings, Nike Air Max 1 Essential Grey & Red Trainers, Violeta By Mango Mohair Knitted Cocoon Coat, 1983 Iron Maiden Piece Of Mind World Piece Tour T-Shirt, Charlotte Russe Rubber Boyfriend Watch & Bracelets; Photo courtesy: Lookbook.nu/thefashionheist

Indulge in the throwback stirrup trend -- they're perfect for knee-high boots!

Black Stirrup Leggings,
Striped Cotton-Jersey Mini Dress (similar here), Denim Refinery The Abrade Me Jacket, Brooks Brothers Tall Leather Stacked Heel Boots, NARS Jungle Red Semi Matte Lipstick; Photo courtesy: Lookbook.nu/ctrendencies

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