Why It's Okay to Wear Leggings as Pants

There are a few things we know to be true in 2017. Olivia Palermo's beauty style continues to go from strength to strength, eating your way towards a healthier gut is the biggest wellness trend right now, and its finally acceptable to wear leggings as pants. 

Who would've thought, that the once-faux-pas of taking your leggings outside the gym would eventually have the fashion crowd's seal of approval? The trend began to emerge last year thanks to models Kendall Jenner, Hailey Baldwin, and Bella Hadid who stepped out in countless outfits centred around leggings. Eventually (by osmosis, presumably), we all became convinced of the leggings’ style credibility.

Not to be confused with the type of leggings you'd wear in the gym (e.g. perforated air holes and reflective panels), the 2017-way sits in a different category. The style of leggings we're wearing as pants won't be found in the active-wear section. They're purpose-built for being worn outside the gym. Sturdier fabrics (including leather), and strategic panelling that help you feel supported.

With designers (like Camilla and Marc and By Malene Birger) now releasing leggings as part of their fashion collections, we’re following their lead and the style tips of the models who pioneered the trend. But how to make it work when you aren’t a supermodel? Our #1 tip is to understand how to style them and wear to wear them.

Keep scrolling to discover five ways to style your leggings as pants, then shop a pair so you can try the trend.

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Gigi Hadid
(Image credit: Splash News)

Why it works: Gigi shows how detailed panels on your leggings can help carry the look away from the gym, and onto the street.

Where to wear it: This look is perfect for running your weekend errands.

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Kendall Jenner
(Image credit: Getty Images)

Why it works: By adding a mini leather bag and leather jacket, Kendall makes the look feel more elevated.

Where to wear it: Brunch with your SO, or friends.

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Bella Hadid
(Image credit: Splash News)

Why it works: Bet you never thought you could get away with wearing your leggings out in the evening? Bella shows it's possible with the right paring. A matching crop and long coat is all you need.

Where to wear it: Movie date? Casual dinner date? The options are endless.

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Olivia Palermo
(Image credit: Splash News)

Why it works: If you feel big 'naked' in regular leggings, try a pair of leather ones instead.

Where to wear it: To meet the parents, a baby shower, or a long ladies lunch.

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Hailey Baldwin
(Image credit: Splash News)

Why it works: A lesson from Hailey Baldwin, on how to style leggings with boots. The tip? Tuck them in.

Where to wear it: Trial this look for a night out dancing. 

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Amanda Bardas