How to take your leggings and sneakers from off-duty to effortlessly elevated

Athleisure has officially earned its place in the fashion spotlight—not just as a pandemic-era default, but as a lifestyle staple. And honestly, it makes sense. What other category of clothing offers that blend of comfort, confidence, and casual cool?

But here’s the thing: just because something is comfortable doesn’t mean it can’t be chic. Styling athleisure with intention means you don’t have to choose between ease and elegance. It’s all about balancing sporty staples with tailored pieces, elevated accessories, and thoughtful styling.

If you want to feel like your most put-together self while still wearing leggings, this one’s for you. Here’s how to take your athletic basics and turn them into city-ready, style-forward outfits.

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1. Anchor the Look with Tailored Layers

The quickest way to elevate athleisure is to pair it with structure. Think:

• A sharply tailored blazer over a hoodie
• A long wool coat layered with joggers
• A crisp button-down peeking out from under a crewneck sweatshirt

This mix of relaxed and refined creates a dynamic contrast that feels polished but never stiff.

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2. Opt for a Neutral Color Palette

While bold colors and logos can have their place, a muted palette—black, white, camel, olive, navy—makes even the most casual pieces feel elevated. Try:

• Black leggings + white sneakers + a beige trench
• Grey joggers + ivory turtleneck + a matching coat
• Charcoal hoodie + black tailored pants + silver hoops

Keeping it tonal allows each piece to blend into a cohesive look, rather than scream “I’m wearing gym clothes.”

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3. Accessorize Like You Mean It

Accessories make the outfit. Period.

• Add a structured bag, not a slouchy tote
• Swap a baseball cap for oversized sunglasses or gold hoops
• Choose sleek sneakers in leather or minimalist designs

Think of your accessories as the element that signals intention—even if the rest of your outfit feels easygoing.

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4. Play with Proportions

One of the easiest styling tricks in the book: balance tight with oversized.

• Leggings look instantly elevated with an oversized wool coat or slouchy knit
• A cropped hoodie pairs well with wide-leg trousers or a midi skirt
• A form-fitting tank top feels more styled when worn with a boxy bomber or puffer vest

This approach keeps things fashion-forward instead of looking like you’re heading to a workout class.

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5. Sneakers Can Be Chic

Your shoes say a lot. Choose a sneaker that complements your outfit’s vibe—clean, minimal, and intentional.

• Try platform sneakers with leggings and a tailored coat
• Go for classic white leather styles over anything overly sporty or loud
• Consider slip-on or fashion sneakers in elevated fabrics like suede or mesh

It’s all about leaning into simplicity and style over function—at least for the day.

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Athleisure doesn’t have to mean “lazy” or “last resort.” When styled with care, it becomes the perfect balance of form and function—equal parts laid-back and luxurious. Whether you’re heading to a coffee meeting, running errands, or simply stepping out for some fresh air, you can feel pulled together without sacrificing comfort.

Because elegance isn’t about dressing up—it’s about dressing well. And yes, you can absolutely do that in leggings.

By Julia Belian