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How to Wear Leggings in Winter: 5 Chic Outfits

How to wear leggings in winter in 5 easy steps: with knee boots, long coats, flared leggings and loafers, polos and Uggs. Real looks with notes.

By How Do You Fashion · Updated · 3 min read

How to Wear Leggings in Winter: 5 Chic Outfits

Leggings are warm and comfy, but they can look like gym clothes if you are not careful. The secret is a great coat and the right shoes. Here is how to wear leggings in winter in 5 easy steps, with real outfits and notes on every piece.

Quick answer: Wear black leggings with a long coat or a structured jacket, and finish with knee boots, loafers, slingbacks or Uggs. A polished top layer makes leggings look chic instead of sporty.

Step 1: Tuck Leggings Into Knee Boots

Woman in a camel wool jacket, black leggings and black knee boots on a city street1Camel wool jacket2Black knee boots
Photo: Aida Badji on Instagram

Black leggings tucked into knee boots look sleek and keep you warm. A camel jacket on top makes the outfit look polished.

Quick tip: Match your boots to your leggings for a long leg line.

Step 2: Add a Long Coat and Slingbacks

Woman taking a mirror selfie in a long brown coat, knit cardigan, leggings and slingbacks1Long brown coat2Black slingback flats
Photo: Femme Blk on Instagram

A long coat covers your leggings and makes them look like part of a chic outfit. Slingback flats add a dressy touch.

Quick tip: A knit cardigan under the coat adds warmth.

Step 3: Try Flared Leggings With Loafers

Woman in a black jacket, long grey scarf, flared leggings and brown loafers1Long grey scarf2Flared black leggings3Brown suede loafers
Photo: Honeybelle on Instagram

Flared leggings look more like trousers, so they are great for work and coffee dates. Brown loafers and a long scarf make the look cozy and smart.

Quick tip: Flared leggings look best with flat shoes.

Step 4: Wear a Striped Polo With Mary Janes

Woman in a striped polo sweater, black leggings and mary janes with white socks1Striped polo sweater2Black leggings3Mary janes with white socks
Photo: Marilyn on Instagram

A striped polo with black leggings and mary janes is a cute, preppy look. White socks add a fun detail.

Quick tip: A headband finishes this look nicely.

Step 5: Go Cozy With Uggs and a Beanie

Woman in an orange beanie, long brown wool coat, black leggings and tan Uggs1Bright orange beanie2Long wool coat3Tan Uggs
Photo: Borislava Sekova on Instagram

Leggings with Uggs and a long coat is the comfiest winter look. A bright beanie adds color to neutral pieces.

Quick tip: Fold your socks over the boots for extra warmth.

Mistakes to Avoid With Leggings

  • Wearing thin, see through leggings, pick thick, matte ones
  • Pairing them with gym sneakers and a hoodie when you want to look polished
  • Wearing a short top with no layer over it
  • Choosing leggings that are too long and bunch at the ankle

FAQs

How do you make leggings look classy?

Wear thick black leggings with a long coat or structured jacket and add knee boots, loafers or slingbacks.

What shoes go with leggings in winter?

Knee boots, ankle boots, loafers, slingback flats and Uggs all look great with leggings.

Can you wear leggings to work?

Flared leggings with a long jacket and loafers can work for a casual office.

What coat goes with leggings?

A long wool coat, a camel jacket or a structured blazer makes leggings look more put together.

Leggings Can Look Chic All Winter

Pick thick leggings, add a great coat and choose smart shoes. With these 5 easy steps, leggings become one of your best winter outfits.

More ideas: faux leather leggings outfits, how to style Uggs and long coat outfits.