If you’re old enough to remember the leggings of the 80′s, you may question wearing them today. I say that because some of us no longer have those slim, svelt figures we sported twenty some years ago. Should that make a difference? Women of all body types wore them back then and certainly will enjoy their comfort today even if it’s a questionable fit.  Which begs a couple of questions. Are leggings too shape specific for some of our bodies? Can a more mature woman wear them? 

 If they are worn with a top that’s longer, just about everyone, regardless of age or shape, can enjoy the look today.The length of the top is a key factor in successfully pulling off this look. Since we’re all different heights, pay attention to where your top ends. It should fall past the hips. The picture to your right belies that statement as two of the women definitely have shorter jackets. They are slimmer, granted, but I’m wondering what they look like from the back. We really, really, don’t want our derriere’s  enhanced, no matter how well shaped, when wearing a very tight, thin fabric. And yes, one can wear leggings with a skirt or dress. If you’re older, be mindful of the length and style. A short denim skirt with a pair of leggings generally looks  better on a younger woman.  A dress should be no longer than the knee if you are layering and even that look can be challenging to pull off if you’re on the other side of 40. Too curvy or too short?  Stick with the tunics.

Speaking of thin fabrics, how do we take this look into the warmer months wearing light weight tunics without showing off our best kept secrets?  You could create a bohemian look with loose, flowing fabrics in small prints, emphasis on loose. If you wear linen, try layering a longer tank belted with a big shirt,or close a few lower buttons and expose the tank from the mid-ruff up. Try a tunic length, light vest (over the shirt) or a cardigan in a crinkled fabric with a tank underneath. A light cotton twill fabric is a good problem solver as it’s hefty enough to be worn without layering and not too warm when it’s hot. Cotton gauze is another alternative but depending on the color can be on the sheer side and need layering.  Remember, if the top is too short or too tight , you’ve lost your chic.

Take a quick glance at the picture to you’re right. Ignoring the age factor, where do your eyes go?  Most likely the focus is on the tops these young nubiles are wearing rather than the bottoms.  Leggings, without exception, should be a secondary piece. Think of them as an accessory item.  Don’t wear leggings as pants.  Like any accessory, they are meant to add interest and a little flair. Matching the color of your legging to something else you are wearing pulls the outfit together.

So now comes the real dilemma. What kind of shoes look best with leggings?  Flats or heels? Most of us are long past the point where we want to toddle around in heels all day, as awesome as they look.  If you really want to go that route, then stick with a basic pump. Although leggings are considered more casual wear, a heel would be appropriate for an evening out when paired with a dressier ensemble.

 A ballet shoe or a simple flat looks the best with this skinny leg.  A tennis shoe with a legging should be worn only if you’re at the gym.  Flip flops, no matter how cute, should be reserved for other types of casual wear.

Rules?  No, guidelines as I want you to look your best. Leggings are so much easier to wear in the winter time as the fabrics are heavier, there are more style options (sweaters, outerwear, etc.), and a boot of any kind fits the look.  Regardless, enjoy the comfort and freedom of these little skinnies while looking smashing throughout the summer.