(Fashion)

Yes, I Wore Leggings To Work For 5 Days Straight

by Amy Lee

To be frank, I have a love-hate relationship with leggings. I adore them because they’re undeniably comfortable and feel like second skin, but they’re hard to wear when I’m not traveling, running errands or working out (a rare occurrence, may I add). Their body-skimming silhouette shows every curve, which doesn’t make them the most appropriate piece to wear to the office. However, because they’re such a major essential in every woman’s wardrobe—especially for fall—I thought I’d take my own advice of elevating the casual staple and making them work-appropriate.

Thus, I tackled the challenge of wearing leggings for a week to the office, which I took on out of curiosity, despite some initial hesitation. Important sartorial lessons I’ve learned? Well, never underestimate how polished they can look (as many colleagues didn’t even notice that I was wearing leggings). Second, the trick is teaming them with various proportions and lengths to cover areas you want to conceal for a streamlined result. Ahead, see how I donned these stretchy pants (successfully) from 9-to-5.

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5-Day Challenge: Leggings

Monday

The high-low design of this mock neck sleeveless sweater is perfect for covering the bum, while the side ties add flair. In an attempt to pull off the of-the-moment '90s revival look à la Bella Hadid, I accessorized with a baker boy hat, round sunnies and chunky lace-up shoes.

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Tuesday

A flowy kimono pairs so well with leggings, which work as a nice base underneath the open robe. Pointed-toe flats were surprisingly complementary and helped elongate my legs. A fuzzy bag and gold earrings translate as fashion-forward extras.

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Wednesday

These super-chic, crazy-affordable white boots are a recent purchase (everyone in our office has them), and I badly wanted to wear them with leggings. Because the footwear is so stark, I tempered the rest of my look with refined layers: a longline vest over a ribbed knit with frilly detail.

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Thursday

My affinity for white tees knows no bounds, so I seriously wear one at least once a week. As you know, I'm all about covering the derriere; this lightweight powder-blue topper is both sleek and modest. Slinky sock boots combined with leggings is the perfect formula for faking a tall frame.

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Friday

The leggings allowed me to adapt my floral summer dress for fall. Slouchy boots slung nicely, and they never fail to look amazing with midi lengths. A dark denim topper over the shoulders helps beat the chill.

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