Black leggings are a staple in my closet all year round but especially in the colder months they become a weekly rotation. Whether I am dressing them up or dressing them down, black leggings are a necessity for my wardrobe. I’ve tried a ton over the years and have found the styles and fits that I love the most and find to be the most flattering and comfortable. I’m sharing my six favorite black leggings and how they fit in today’s post. And then if you are need of some outfit inspiration for black leggings, I am sharing a ton of ways that I have styled them over the years.

Black Legging Outfit Ideas

Best Fitting Black Leggings

1. Spanx Booty Boost Leggings

As with all Spanx leggings, these are insanely slimming and super comfortable. A bit thicker so if working out in the hot weather, these may be a bit hot. I personally love these because the length is the best for my short inseam (I’m 5’4″ with really short legs). Sizing: Runs TTS

2. Zella Live-In High Waist Leggings

Compared to the Spanx, there is not as much compression in these but the fabric is a tad more dull (the Booty Boost has a very minimal flat sheen to it). I have the 7/8 length and they are a perfect length and I love the side pocket too. Sizing: TTS

3. Commando Faux Leather Leggings

Commando leggings run VERY long so when I saw they had a 7/8 length, I grabbed them right away. They are still on the long side but manageable. The leather look on these is closer to a real pair of leather pants which makes them a great dressier option. I don’t like the middle front seam and find they wrinkle a tad in the crotch area but I try to wear them with something long enough to cover that. Sizing: Runs small

4. Spanx Faux Leather Leggings

My all time favorite leggings that I have been wearing for yearssssss. The fit is incredibly slimming and super flattering. My only complaint is they run VERY long – even the petite lengths. There is no front seam as with all Spanx leggings which makes them so flattering. For me, these are a more casual style of leggings and don’t really reach for these when I want to dress up. They are my go-to for day to day looks and look great with a tunic sweater or a shorter sweatshirt. Sizing: Runs small

Related: Spanx vs Commando Faux Leather Leggings

5. Amazon Colorfulkoala Leggings

These were a random Amazon and HOLY COW THEY ARE AMAZING!!! Under $30 and the fit is almost identical to the Spanx Booty Boost/Zella leggings – slimming and high waisted. They have a dull fabric finish and pockets on the sides. They are also a great length for me. Sizing: TTS

6. Lululemon Align Leggings

A long time favorite for me and I wore this style while pregnant too! The fabric is slimming yet VERY thin which I love. Not thin enough to be see through, either. They still manage to be opaque and hold their shape perfectly. My only complaint is that the 25″ inseam still seems very long on me which is weird but not a dealbreaker. Sizing: Runs small

How To Pair Leggings

Oversized sweaters

This is always the classic go-to for black leggings for good reason. A cozy oversized sweater is always a great look with leggings.

Longline blazers

To dress up leggings a bit, you can always opt for a longer slightly oversized blazer.

Cozy sweatshirt or hoodie

For the perfect off-duty weekend look, a cozy sweatshirt with black leggings is timeless.

How To Style Black Leggings

Athleisure Outfits with Black Leggings

Sweatshirt | Leggings | Sneakers

Sweatshirt | Leggings | Sneakers (similar) | Bag | Sunglasses

These are the outfits types of looks that I like to wear for school drop-off, running errands and hanging out on the weekends. I like to usually wear some comfy athletic sneakers and either an oversized hoodie or sweatshirt. Throw on a belt bag and I’m ready to go.

Mom On-the-Go Outfits with Black Leggings

Sweatshirt (similar) | Leggings | Sneakers

Coat | Sweater | Leggings | Boots | Sunglasses

When I am running around with my son, these are the kind of outfits that I love to wear. I will grab my more stylish sneakers and a graphic sweatshirt or cozy oversized sweater to wear with my black leggings. I feel put together but still super comfortable to run around with my little guy and not feel encumbered by my outfit. These are also my birthday party looks or park outfits.

Cozy Outfits with Black Leggings

Sweater | Leggings | Boots (similar)

If I am not in the mood to wear jeans but still have a lunch date or place that I need to be, I will grab some black leggings, a chic oversized sweater and boots. I feel put together and polished yet still super comfortable. Think street style meets comfort. Combat boots or lug sole boots are my chosen shoe for many of these looks.

Dressy Black Legging Outfits

Blazer (similar) | Turtleneck | Leggings | Shoes | Bag (similar) | Sunglasses

Sweater (similar) | Leggings | Turtleneck | Bag (similar) | Shoes (similar) | Sunglasses

There are a ton of ways to dress up a pair of black leggings though I prefer to wear faux leather leggings with these looks. These are the outfits where I opt for a pair of pumps or heeled boots and either a long blazer, sweater or cardigan that covers my butt. If you work somewhere that is more business casual, these would all be great options for work.

Are Black Leggings Still in Style?

Black leggings will always be in style for casual or athleisure looks. If you want to dress them up, be sure to choose a faux leather finish instead of a traditional activewear legging. For a more relaxed, weekend vibe, choose an oversized sweater, chic wool coat and a lifestyle sneaker to finish off the look.