A staple of casual wear, women’s leggings offer a comfortable and stylish alternative to pants. They’re versatile enough for workouts, everyday wear and even travel. They’re usually laundered the same way as other pants and don’t require any special care, though some specialized types of leggings may require hand washing or special mesh laundry bags.
The fabric blends and technologies used to create leggings vary, but the most popular are cotton-lycra and a mix of polyester and spandex. Stretchy, soft and completely opaque, these materials can stand up to most kinds of physical activity.
Tummy control leggings (also called shaper leggings) are designed to smooth out areas of the body that tend to bulge or protrude and can help conceal cellulite by stretching skin flat and making it less noticeable. These leggings also help to tighten the stomach and belly for a flattering silhouette.
Shiny leggings, sometimes referred to as leather-look leggings, have a metallic or latex appearance and were a popular fashion trend in the 2000s. Typically made of nylon and spandex, shiny leggings look almost like latex or leather and are often marketed as evening or clubwear.
If you’re planning on wearing leggings to the gym, work or play, it’s important to choose the right pair. Avoid any that are so tight they feel uncomfortable against your skin. A good rule of thumb is that if you can fit more than one finger between the fabric and your skin, they’re too tight. Also, leggings aren’t ideal for formal occasions or schools that have strict dress codes. women’s bamboo leggings