I don’t wear leggings very often as I often prefer dressier clothes, but I find them a very good option for more casual outings and especially holidays.
I actually often get asked if 40+ women can still wear leggings and I always refer them to my article on this topic: how to wear leggings after 40.
The short answer is that, yes, you can absolutely wear leggings after 40, so long as you stick to a few rules. The main one is that you should never wear leggings as pants and always wear them with a longer top as I do in both of these examples. That way the leggings act more like skinnies and provide a perfect canvas for a special tunic or top.
I like leggings especially with asymmetrical tops as these add extra interest to the outfit and create more flattering vertical lines. You may recognise the design of this asymmetrical vest which you can wear both open and closed. I showed it to you before in a gray winter version worn several different ways. I also wore the vest belted which you can see here.
The summer version is just as fabulous and perfect for hot weather. You can wear the vest on its own or used as a vest over your top or wear the hoodie!
I also find knee high leggings perfect for the holidays. So easy to wear and they look perfect with long tunics like this layered black and white one from Sancerre. Note the 3 buttons at the knees which make these leggings extra special. I always find that knee high leggings look best with a bit of ruching at the knees, espcially for white leggings, so it does not clearly show every bone and curve of your knee. These are made of medium thick and superbly comfortable cotton, so I can highly recommend them.
Both leggings paired well with my comfortable old sandals. They are just special enough to add a bit of trendiness to the outfits so the outfit is not too plain. Both of these outfits were perfect for days exploring Sri Lanka.
Want to know to see more black and white inspiration? Check my article on how to wear black and white
Do you like to wear leggings? How do you wear them?
Sylvia is 40+style’s editor-in-chief and has been helping women find their unique style since 2011. An alumni of the School of Color and Design, she is devoted to empowering women of any age to look and feel their best. Read more about Sylvia and 40+style on this page.
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Nice one, another way to wear leggings
LOVE the black and white 🙂 That’s my style right there – black or white leggings with opposing coloured tunics. You look great 😀
Great wear, not only for holidays. You look very good in both. Lovely tunics which get the opportunity to shine.
I usually have trousers like these, but you might call them leggings too.
I agree with Elaine’s comment that you are showing how to wear them in style. And your Styling is really cool and elegant. Love the shape of your vest! But you also do not mind me dreaming about your background, do you? Thanks for not only shring useful Fashion advice as usual but also a Location to dream of! I have always been wearing leggins, love them, wear them all year round. my favorite pair is a grey, aminal print Adidas Version I got twice just because I love them so much. Sabina | Oceanblue Style
Both of these outfits are so perfect for holiday. I always love this vest on you.
Alice
http://www.happinessatmidlife.com
Hope to see you Thursday for TBT Fashion link up.
Your outfits are gorgeous Sylvia! Along with your advice on how to wear leggings you show that these outfits are really all about the quality of the tops – short dresses or tunics. The more unique and flattering the top the better the leggings will look with the outfit. I don’t often wear leggings but I have black and white over the knee pairs that I would like to try this summer. Being petite it is hard to find leggings that do not bag around the knees and are not too long. I have a couple of colorful fun asymmetric tunics but would like something classier and more suitable for town. Will be on the lookout in the shops and on line for a spectacular top.
Thanks Elaine and good luck with finding the perfect leggings and tops!
I believe those rules should apply to everyone, and not just women over 40. Yes, I’m 52 and I wear leggings. My legs are one of my best features, so I’m not hiding them. But I always wear a long tunic or a dress.
I tend to agree Amy. I have certainly never worn leggings without following my leggings rules.
Great looks, particularly the second one. But no, I do not wear leggings. I work out in yoga pants, but these are not on public display unless you catch me jogging. 🙂
I can understand that too…
Great looking outfits and great photos too!
Thanks Denton, yes I’m pleased with them too!