Plus size leggings are quickly becoming essential pieces of clothing for many people. These items are easy to wear and fairly simple to style, and they provide the needed flexibility, support, and comfort for people of all sizes. Because leggings can be dressed up or down, they can be used as activewear, casual wear, and for some, even office attire. Not to mention, leggings are a perfect clothing choice for a day that includes a gym session and running errands or a busy day at the office.
This guide covers key points to understand and appreciate the value offered by plus size leggings. After that, it will teach you how to figure out the best size for your shape and style. We will also include some styling suggestions and the best places to buy leggings. Let’s jump into plus size leggings!
Table of contents
What is Different About Plus Size Leggings?
Designed to Accompany Curves
Plus size leggings provide extra room in the waist, hips, and thighs. This makes them spacious and comfortable without being overly loose and disheveled. Regular leggings can be tight, and more often than not, they don’t include room for stretch over larger bodies. Plus size leggings relieve discomfort enough to provide a fit that flatters your body and allows you to move freely.
Attention to Fabric and Stretchability
What makes clothing plus size leggings special is the attention given to the fabric, waistband, and stretchability in the construction. Excellent leggings will use the right combination of spandex, polyester, and cotton, as all of these fabrics provide great breathability and stretch, which is ideal for workouts, daily routines, or home lounging.
Stylish and Functional Features
Plus size leggings do not only provide the basic comforts. these leggings come with a variety of stylish and functional designs. For instance, they come in all black or with eye-catching patterns and prints for almost any setting or occasion. Leggings with functional and stylish pockets as well as other features such as moisture-wicking fabric and tummy control are becoming increasingly popular.
Perfect for Active Lifestyles
For an active lifestyle, these leggings are perfect. If you do yoga, running, or weightlifting, the right leggings for the activity make a difference. They usually come with supportive waistbands that won’t roll down and moisture-wicking and breathable fabric for the toughest workouts.
Compression for Added Support
When choosing exercise leggings, consider acquiring leggings made of fabric with some compression that does not feel suffocating. These types of leggings increase circulation and assist with muscle recovery, which is beneficial for those who participate in physically demanding exercises.
Casual Leggings for Everyday Comfort
Casual leggings are perfect for running errands, hanging out with friends, or even relaxing at home. These leggings come in an array of colors and patterns and fabric choices, so you can find something that corresponds with your style, whether that is a timeless plain color or fun embellishments such as stripes, florals, or animal prints.
They are also quite practical and can be worn with oversized sweaters, tunics, or even dresses for an effortlessly stylish ensemble. In casual leggings, you can easily come up with different outfit options for a week. The comfort provided by casual leggings is due in part to their stretchability, which is important for those long, active days. Choose cotton or modal leggings for added comfort and ease with an elastic waistband for convenience.
Leggings for Work in Plus Sizes
Who said leggings can’t look professional? Clothing plus size leggings found their way into the office, and they offer a stylish and comfy alternative to traditional pants. Go for leggings in darker shades like black or navy and in more structured styles, like those in faux leather or subtle pinstripes.
These more office-appropriate leggings can be paired with a smart blouse or blazer for a polished, yet comfy outfit for busy work days. Just be careful that the leggings are thick enough so there are no issues with transparency.
How to Choose Plus Size Leggings for Your Shape
Consider Your Waist and Hips
Plus size leggings should fit your waist and hip size to look the best. Select leggings that have a wide elastic waist band and fits snugly without cutting into your skin. High-rise leggings work best for women that like more tummy control or cover.
Leggings that feature a contoured waistband are a great option if you have a curvier shape; they embrace your curves without digging in. These types of leggings aim to create a flattering shape while providing additional space around the hips.
Seek Out Leggings with Compression to Get the Support You Need
If you want added support during your workouts or even throughout the day, leggings with compression are a great option. They assist muscle recovery, and swelling, and improve blood flow in the legs. Many of the newer clothing plus size leggings have incorporated compression in the design, and it often focuses on the thighs, hips, and calves.
Leggings labeled with “compression” or “support” should be your target. Pick a compression level that you feel is appropriate. While excessive compression can be uncomfortable, support is helpful during movement, so a compression level on the gentler side may be appropriate.
Consider Your Leggings Fabric for Everyday Use
The fabric of your plus size leggings speaks to your level of comfort. If you’re using leggings for everyday activities, cotton blends and cotton spandex will be great. For workouts, grab your nylon or spandex leggings for moisture control and to allow the fabric to move with you.
Having stretchy fabric is essential. For unrestricted movement whether exercising or lounging, try to find leggings with a minimum of 10-20% elastane or spandex. Greater elasticity results in increased comfort.
Adding Oversized Tops and Tunics to Plus Size Leggings
A great way to style plus size leggings is to combine them with oversized tops or tunics, which is one of the greatest ways to style plus size leggings. It achieves a balanced, flattering look by focusing on the leggings while giving more comfort. You can choose a long, flowy blouse or a cozy sweater.
To add a bit of structure to the outfit, think of adding a belt on top of your tunic to create an hourglass silhouette. It creates more shape while the outfit remains comfortable and relaxed.
Add a Jacket or Blazer for a Chic Look
Want to dress your leggings up a little? Add a jacket or a blazer! A leggings outfit becomes sophisticated when paired with a well tailored blazer. For an office outfit, wear a black pair of plus size leggings with a tailored blazer and a blouse, or go for a leather jacket for an edgier modern vibe.
During the transitional period or a cooler season, a jacket will be perfect for you to add style and warmth. When it comes to jackets, don’t be shy to try different styles and lengths!
Footwear: From Sneakers to Heels
The leggings look you want can be completely changed from your footwear choices. For a sporty, casual vibe, you can wear leggings and a pair of comfy sneakers and if you want to dress up, wear ankle boots, flats, or even heels. The pointed-toe heels and leggings combo works great because it elongates your legs creating a sleek silhouette.
Where to Shop for Plus Size Leggings
Best Places to Buy Plus Size Activewear
There are varied specialized retailers that provide plus size activewear, including leggings to meet numerous occasions, styles and body types. Lane Bryant and Torrid are prominent plus size activewear retailers. Another popular option is Aerie, which has varying styles, colors, and fabrics to choose from in plus size leggings.
If you’re searching for something more budget-friendly, both Old Navy and Target are good alternatives, fashionably inexpensive plus size leggings are accessible from there.
Buying Plus Size Leggings Online
For countless plus size leggings to choose from, your best option is to shop online. ASOS, Amazon, and Nordstrom have thousands in varying styles and sizes. Each option has customer reviews to help make a decision. Always measure yourself and compare to the size table before buying to make sure it isn’t a waste.
Conclusion: Comfortable and Stylish “Plus Size” Leggings
Fashion has changed for the better with the introduction of “Plus Size” leggings. Leggings can be worn to workouts, lounging, or dressing up for the office and the flexibility and comfort that they provide is remarkable. The right pair makes all the difference.
When you think about your body shape, favorite materials, and how you plan to use them, figuring out your ideal plus size leggings becomes an easy task. Plus, with a variety of fashionable designs and shades to choose from, why not enjoy the best of both style and comfort?
There’s no reason to hold back, purchase some plus size leggings today. You will appreciate the addition to your closet!
FAQs
1. What are plus size leggings made of?
Plus size leggings are usually made from a mix of materials like cotton, spandex, polyester, and modal. These fabrics help the leggings stretch and provide comfort, breathability, and support for your body.
2. Can I wear plus size leggings for exercise?
Yes! Plus size leggings are great for exercise. Many are made with moisture-wicking fabrics, providing breathability and comfort during workouts like yoga, running, or weightlifting.
3. How do I choose the right size for plus size leggings?
To choose the right size, check the brand’s size chart and compare it with your waist, hip, and inseam measurements. Choose leggings with a stretchy waistband for extra comfort and a better fit.
