Flare leggings are making a major comeback in women’s fashion. This retro style is being seen everywhere from runways to street style. Flare leggings are a versatile staple that can be dressed up or down seamlessly. If you have recently purchased a pair of flare leggings or are considering hopping on the trend, you may be wondering what to wear with them. This article will provide the ultimate fashion tips on styling flare leggings to create so many different looks and trendy looks.
What Are Flare Leggings?
Flare leggings are a popular athleisure and fashion staple that have a wide, flared leg silhouette. Unlike tight, skinny leggings or slim yoga pants, (learn: Yoga Pants vs Leggings: Key Differences You Need To Know) flare leggings have an exaggerated flare or slight flare from the knee down to the ankle, creating a dramatic voluminous shape.
These yoga pants give the illusion of wider, curvier hips and a perkier rear while slimming the appearance of the thighs. The stretchy fabric, figure-hugging fabric emphasizes the contours of the body. Best flared leggings, unlike regular leggings, come in a variety of styles, from cropped to full length, high-rise waist to low rise, and fitted to loose styles. Materials can range from cotton blends to performance fabrics like spandex and polyester. For those looking for the best flare leggings, there are many options available to suit different preferences and needs.
Flare leggings emerged as one of the latest trends in 2022 and have been spotted on fashion icons like Hailey Bieber and Bella Hadid. Their versatility and comfort make them a perfect fit and a wardrobe essential.
Are Flare Leggings in Style in 2023?
Flare leggings are predicted to be a huge fashion trend in 2023. Last year, flare and bootcut yoga pants started gaining momentum, but this style is expected to explode in popularity this year. After the tight, skinny legging look dominated the 2010s, the pendulum is starting to swing towards looser, relaxed silhouettes.
Wide leg trousers and loose jeans have already taken off, and now the athleisure world is following suit with the huge trend of flare leggings. The defined waist and curvy hip silhouette created by flare leggings is the perfect antidote to the ultra low-rise styles of the early 2000s. Flare leggings are comfortable, easy to move in, and flattering for most body types, making them a must-have for fashionistas.
Fashion influencers, celebrities, and stylists have all been sporting flare leggings recently, making them a hot trend in the fashion world. Major retailers have introduced new flare legging designs into their collections, including cool crossover waist details and innovative fabrics that incorporate crossover designs. These updates give this staple a fresh, modern upgrade. Expect to see black flare leggings everywhere this year as the athleisure trend shows no signs of slowing down.
What Tops to Wear With Flare Leggings
Finding the right tops to complement the dramatic silhouette of flare leggings is key. Avoid tops that are too oversized or long, which can overwhelm the flared shape. Here are some flattering options:
Top Styles | Examples |
Fitted tops | T-shirts, tanks, sports bras, (learn: Is It the Right Choice to Wear Sports Bras All Day?) bodysuits |
Cropped tops | Cropped t-shirts, cropped tanks |
Oversized tops | Oversized t-shirts, oversized sweaters (tuck them in) |
Blouses | Button-up blouses, wrap blouses, cowl neck blouses |
Sweaters | Fitted sweaters, turtleneck sweaters, cropped sweaters |
- Form fitting tank tops and t-shirts balance out the volume on bottom. Tucking in a front hem also defines the waist.
- Cropped tops and bra tops expose just a sliver of midriff, accentuating the curves. Pair with a high-waisted flare for a leg-lengthening look.
- Oversized sweatshirts and pullovers can be worn if cropped to the perfect length. Go for cropped, boxy shapes rather than long and loose.
- Structured crop tops with wrap details, knotted fronts, or built-in bras make the waist look extra cinched.
- For colder weather, pair with fitted turtlenecks and mock neck tops to maintain balance with the flares.
- Dressy looks like a call for blouses and nicer tops tucked in. Silky camisole tops or blouses with front tucks complement the proportions.
What Shoes to Wear With Flare Leggings
Choosing shoes to complement flare leggings can be a great option depending on the occasion and desired look. Here are some flattering options:
Shoe Styles | Examples |
Sneakers | White sneakers, platform sneakers, colorful sneakers |
Boots | Ankle boots, over-the-knee boots, cowboy boots |
Heels | Block heels, strappy heels, booties |
Sandals | Flat sandals, heeled sandals, gladiator sandals |
Clogs | Platform clogs, open-toe clogs |
Mules | Slip-on mules, heeled mules |
- Sleek sneakers in neutral colors streamline the silhouette for casual wear. Try low-profile runners or minimalist styles.
- Ankle boots and booties, either heeled or flat, create a leg-lengthening effect, balancing out wider hips.
- Strappy flat sandals are perfect for warm weather. Look for gladiator, lace-up, or t-strap styles that won’t cut the legline short.
- For dressy occasions, strappy heels, especially block heels, will elongate the legs beautifully. Avoid spindly stilettos.
- Knee high boots worn over or tucked into flare leggings add stylish warmth in (Learn: 10 Comfortable and Stylish Tips for Tucking Shirt into Leggings) winter. Stay away from wider calf styles.
- Clogs, mules, and slides look chic with bare legs. Make sure to get platform soles to maintain vertical balance.
What Accessories to Wear With Flare Leggings
Pull together a flawless flare leggings outfit by accessorizing smartly for the perfect look. Here are some tips:
Accessory Types | Examples |
Jewelry | Dainty necklaces, hoop earrings, rings, bracelets |
Bags | Crossbody bags, small shoulder bags |
Coats/Vests | Oversized coats, denim jackets, puffer vests |
Belts | Skinny belts, wide belts |
Hats | Fedoras, beanies, floppy hats |
- Cinch the waist with a skinny belt or fabric obi tie to accentuate those curves even more.
- Layer on long, flowy open cardigans or kimonos on top for extra coverage.
- In colder months, oversized blanket scarves wrapped around the shoulders lend style and warmth.
- Add delicate layered necklaces, chokers, and lariat styles to draw attention upward.
- Hoop earrings, chandelier earrings, and statement earrings complement the proportions.
- Sophisticated top handle bags, shoulder bags, and small crossbodies are ideal. Avoid bulky totes.
- Don’t forget the dark shades – cat-eye, aviator, and wayfarer sunglasses always finish off a flare legging look.
What Are Some Outfit Ideas With Flared Leggings?
- Professional
Create work appropriate looks by pairing flare leggings with blazers and crisp poplin shirts. Stepping out of your comfort zone with pointy toe flats for conservative offices or block heel booties for a more creative workplaces can add a touch of personality to your outfit and ensure that you are in the right place. Finish with a top handle bag.
- Dressy
Make flare leggings appropriate for a night out by tucking in a silky camisole and adding strappy heels for a stylish look. Drape a stylish kimono on top and carry a small shoulder bag. Add statement earrings.
- Retro
Channel a 70s vibe with flare pants, a tied plaid blouse and platform clogs. Accessorize with a scarf in your hair and blue tinted sunglasses for the perfect match to create a funky retro outfit.
- Edgy
Cut a sleeveless muscle tank to be cropped, then pair with black leggings, a shacket, leather jacket, and chunky boots for downtown edge. Slick hair back and add hoops.
- Sophisticated
Look polished by wearing a mock neck bodysuit tucked into flares with pointy toe flats. Layer on an oversized blazer and top handle bag. Finish with delicate gold jewelry.
- Casual
For weekends, pair flare leggings with an oversized graphic tee half-tucked in front. Add white sneakers and a baseball hat for a model-off-duty vibe.
- Sporty
Make flare leggings gym-ready with a matching cropped sports bra (Learn: Sports Bras VS Regular Bras: Everything You Need To Know) or fitted tank and cross-training sneakers with ankle socks. Top with a baseball cap for athletic flair.
- Girly
Create a feminine look with flares, a ruffly off-the-shoulder top and strappy sandals. Carry a top handle bag and add floral print hair clips.
- Cute
For a sweet casual look, pair flare leggings with an oversized pullover, scrunched ankle socks and slip-on sneakers. Finish with a funny pack across the chest.
- Boho
Channel your inner boho goddess with flares, an embroidered peasant top and flat knee-high boots. Accessorize with long tassel earrings and a floppy hat.
Conclusion
Flare leggings are poised to be a major fashion trend this year and for good reason – their fit is flattering, they lend curves, and they’re comfortable. Avoid wearing overly long tops, which hide the dramatic flared shape. Sleek sneakers, ankle boots, strappy heels, and clogs all complement the silhouette. Accessorize smartly by cinching the waist, layering long open cardigans and adding delicate jewelry. With so many ways to wear them for different occasions, flare leggings are a versatile staple every woman should own. If needed or interested, please contact UGA today, we will give you more ideas about how to style your leggings.