Rules For Wearing Leggings For Women Over 50
Let’s be honest, Gurls—leggings have become a wardrobe staple for so many of us, especially as we’re looking for both comfort and style! But as women over 50, it’s natural to wonder if there are a few “rules” to follow when styling leggings beyond the gym. Today, we’re talking about the rules for wearing leggings for women over 50 and how to look fabulous doing it! Soon, you’ll be wearing leggings with confidence, whether you’re lounging at home, running errands, or heading out for a night with friends. Let’s explore how to make leggings work for any occasion and feel fabulous doing it!
Leggings Are A Wardrobe Staple
Black leggings are a staple in my wardrobe. They are comfortable and practical and can be dressed up or down depending on where you are going. I know that the topic of wearing leggings out of the house can be a bit controversial, but today, I’m here to show you how to look fabulous doing it! I’m also sharing my favorite places to buy leggings, including faux leather leggings, and how I style them.
I’m a big believer that you can, and should, wear anything that you want as long as you feel great while wearing it; however, there are a few rules for wearing leggings, especially for those of us who are over 50.
If you want more inspiration on how to style and wear leggings for women over 50, you’ll want to read these posts as well:
The Rules for Wearing Leggings for Women Over 50
I love wearing leggings around the house all year round, but I’m not a fan of compression leggings. I don’t like feeling like a sausage; I would rather be comfortable. My biggest issue with most leggings is that you end up with a muffin top since they squeeze you at the waist. Luckily, my recommendations and tips below will help you avoid that!
Keep Balance in Mind
Wearing a longer, flowy top can make leggings feel chic and balanced. This adds structure, creating a polished look that’s effortless.
Creating a great outfit is all about balance and proportion, and I like to balance the look of the fitted leggings on my bottom half with something that has more volume up top. This means I usually look for a flowy blouse or a cozy, oversized sweater to pair with my leggings.
I balanced out these faux leather leggings In the look above with a turtleneck poncho sweater. Similarly, I wouldn’t wear this oversized top with big wide-leg jeans as it would overwhelm my figure. It’s all about finding the right balance between your pieces. Adding the leather ankle boots kept the edgy vibe of the faux leather leggings.
Cover Your Rear
It has become fashionable NOT to cover your rear. Many women wear athletic leggings with tight-cropped sports tops, and covering their rear isn’t an issue with them. However, for this over-50 woman, I still like my rear covered if the leggings are lightweight. Heavier Ponte knit, faux leather, etc. type leggings are some that I’m not as concerned about if my rear isn’t covered. Long story short – wear what makes you comfortable and confident.
One of my favorite ways to wear leggings is with a button-front shirt. A button-up shirt is one of the most versatile items in my wardrobe and can be dressed up or down easily. This classic look is my go-to, but I also love wearing striped buttoned shirts with leggings.
Think Texture
Leather, velvet, or ribbed leggings add texture to your outfit, which creates a more sophisticated vibe. Try pairing faux leather leggings with suede or knit accessories for added style.
While leggings really are pants, they can be too revealing for most of us women over 50. Try to ensure that your top hits below your hips so that your “business” is covered. Tunics are an easy option for making sure your shirt is long enough. I also like adding a cardigan over a tee for a cute, casual, and modest look.
These crushed velvet leggings are actually more of a pant since they are thicker, but for the purpose of today’s post, we are considering them leggings, LOL! I paired them with this beautiful red sweater that hit below my hip, and I had to finish the look off with red shoes. This would be a super fun date night or Christmas party outfit!
Elongate with Monochrome
A single color from top to toe not only elongates your silhouette but also creates a streamlined, chic look. Black leggings with a matching black sweater and black boots make a simple yet elegant outfit.
Make your legs look long and lean by pairing your leggings with a top or shoes in the same color. Today, I wore the same color sweater as the leggings and created a long, lean look. The black sweater creates a slimming, monochromatic look! You can be comfortable at work! Leggings might not be the first thing you think of when you’re going to work, but you might want to reconsider. Choosing a thicker Ponte Legging Pant looks polished and professional while being as comfy as pajamas.
Add Accessories to Elevate
Think of leggings as a blank canvas. Add a scarf, bold earrings, or a structured handbag to bring interest and sophistication to your look.
I wanted to add some visual interest to this monochromatic outfit, so I added a leopard print scarf and leather boots in a soft camel. Pairing the faux leather leggings with cute fold-over ankle boots creates an edgier look. You could also wear black knee-high boots, black loafers, ballet flats, or black slip-on sneakers for the same elongating effect.
What Are The Best Leggings for Older Women?
Now that we’ve talked about the rules for wearing leggings for women over 50, let’s talk about some more of my favorite pairs. I like looking for a nice thick material so that my leggings are not see-through. I also make sure to choose a pair with a thick waistband to help hold everything into place. Look for thicker fabrics that provide coverage and comfort, such as Ponte, faux leather, or knit leggings. Brands like Spanx, Zella, and Lululemon are popular for their quality.
1. Black Leggings, 3 Pack
When you read the title of these leggings, you never would have guessed that these are my absolute favorite kind of leggings that I own! They are from Amazon and are the lightest, softest, most buttery leggings I have ever put on my body. They are so inexpensive, and they come in a 3-pack! Remember that these leggings have zero compression, but they are my absolute favorite day-to-day leggings. I sized up in these to an L-XL, and they fit me well. I think these win the award for the thinnest, softest black leggings for women over 50. Bookmark these as a must-try item, girls!
2. Lululemon Align Leggings
I tried these leggings a few years ago, and I am hooked. They are a bit of a splurge. The minute I pulled on the Align Leggings, I was hooked. They are incredibly soft and paper-thin. However, they aren’t see-through at all, and they seem to be durable. I’m not sure how they do that, but they do. My DIL tells me they have an incredible return policy, but I’ve not read it yet. These are the 23“ crops; I wear a size 10 in these, and I love the fit.
3. HeyNuts on Amazon
You should strongly consider trying this Amazon pair, which is very comparable to Lululemon’s Align leggings. They have excellent reviews and are extremely affordable! I have these, and a large fits me best.
4. The Gym People on Amazon
Here is another pair of highly rated and loved leggings from Amazon. This pair of leggings is affordable and will hold you in for a flattering fit. They also have a pocket, which is very handy for storing your phone or car key while you are out running errands!
5. Zella Live In High Waist Leggings
I have been wearing this brand from Nordstrom for a few years, and I really love their leggings. They are very flattering and have a no-slip waistband. I think a large one is the best fit for me.
6. Spanx Faux Leather Leggings
I love the edginess that faux leather leggings for women over 50 bring to an outfit! This pair from Spanx is fabulous, and I’ve been wearing mine for several years. They are very comfortable and flattering. If they are rolling down on you, you likely need to size up!
Rules for Wearing Leggings for Women Over 50 – Outfit Inspiration
There you have it! Let me know if you agree with my rules for wearing leggings for women over 50. I’d love to hear from you—do you have a favorite way to style leggings, or maybe a go-to brand that makes you feel your best? Drop your tips in the comments, and let’s share our favorite legging looks! Don’t forget to check out the links above for more inspiration and outfit ideas you’ll love.
Shop More Leggings for Women Over 50:
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I’m not one to wear leggies, but I’m definitely going to try them. I’m 80 and always thought they were more for the younger crowd. I hope I look as good as you do! I’m 5’6″, weigh 140 lbs. and exercise daily. I hope that counts for something !LOL
We are the same height, but I’m a few pounds heavier.
These all look great. I’m mid 70’s and need to wear orthodics. Hard to make an outfit look nice when in tennis shoes.
Always make sure your top is long enough to
cover butt and camel toe. So TERRIBLE when older,
over weight ladies were short tops.
Please check with your mirror before leaving the house.
I still as a senior have not gotten around to wearing tights.
Hubby always says they belong in the bedroom when he
sees such short tops worn with tights!!!
what is the best leggings that will not roll or slip when wearing
Love your fashion insights! The crushed velvet leggings in your first picture are on sale at Talbots! The sizing is a question though…I didn’t see your measurements/weight in the article and I’m trying to determine the best size for me. I’m normally an 8 if the waist isn’t too tight (I weight 150), but the reviews have ladies weighing much less wearing my size!
Any suggestions? Thank you, looking forward to your future posts!
I’m 5’6″ tall and between 150-155 lbs. I’m usually a size 8, but I sometimes order a large in leggings.
Thank you so much for the information on leggings!!!
Also.. I’m trying the QVC foundation you recommended! Perfect timing since I’m almost out!!!💖💖💖
Thank you for this! Love it….i love my leggings! Have pleather, velvet, lulu, Athleta….Talbots…I pretty much follow your suggestions except I rarely wear heals but nice flats, boots and tennis shoes! Definitely love the high waisted. Going to order the 3 pack you suggested. Definitely believe any wearer should have their assets covered! And no torn jeans ! I’m an active 75 yo!
I’m with you girl! I am your age, 5’3″ & abit over weight. I need to wear orthodics so can’t wear tall boots often. Mostly I’m in tennis shoes.
Thank you for these recommendations! I’ve always been a little skeptical about wearing leggings! Will definitely give it a try!!
Oh, my! I wear them all the time!
I lovvve leggings! I discovered how comfortable they were a few years ago when I started wearing them for yoga. I just added a few of your recommendations to my Amazon basket, thanks!
thank goodness you said to cover your butt! it’s not a good look if you are not 25 & in shape to have the fanny sticking out. I’ve seen it too many times. Especially on more mature ladies. I wear them for comfort around my house mainly, but even then I cover my rear. You look great in them!
You look absolutely adorable in everything you displayed. Thank You
Love this! Thank you for the great leggings ideas.
Thank you for the helpful and flattering suggestions.
Thank you for these great suggestions and ideas! Thank you, also, for always having a Bible verse included in your blog. It is so special and affirming to be reminded of God’s love for us.
Where did you get those beautiful grey boots? I love them!!
Delanie, I love those boots too. They were from Talbots, and they sold out quickly.
Really hoping your boys are Jacob and Joseph, not Elihud and Eleazar!! Thanks for the post about leggings.
Lol!
Nice variety from casual to dressy!
Even younger women need to wear longer tops with leggings.
I agree
Good leads on leggings! Thanks!
Great information and I love those velvet leggings!
🙂 I wear leggings for exercise. I have the Lululemon align and they are very comfortable. Otherwise, I don’t wear them. Leggings would not be appropriate for me when I’m at work, and they aren’t something I reach for when I’m lounging around. I guess it’s just my personality. Some women do wear them in a stylish way, though. You gave a lot of good examples for gals who enjoy wearing them.
This is the perfect blog for me today. I am a leggings gal!! I live in them. I have a super casual part time job and can wear them to work, so I wear them ALL the time. I love the look with the gray sweater and gray boots. I prefer a longer top as well.
I take yoga classes, so leggings are a staple for me. Can’t wear any kind the rolls down at the waist but I do like compression. Thank you for your recommendations! Also, I’m going on a hunt for those velvet leggings but at a lesser price.
I love this post! You look so elegant and classy and provide a better perspective to wearing my leggings. Would be nice to see your stylist in a post like this with you too 😉
Thanks for a timely post! I was hesitant to try leggings being a 73 year old lady, but once I did, I was hooked! Of course, the tush must be covered if I am going out in public.
Joseph & Matthew? I wear leggings with long tops at home, but occasionally for an errand. I love your suggestions for dressier occasions.
Close, one of those is right.
Wow
I think this is spot on
You have them styled, in my opinion in a very classy way
Love reading your blog Tania
I love Ponte leggings from JJILL because my base color is usually brown and I can almost always find them there. Yes! to always covering my backside! Even with my exercise leggings/tights I get long tops because I might need to run to Kroger after class. I’m 70 by the way.
You make everything look so cute! Love the suggestions!
I do like leggings but always cover my backside.
These are some great tips. Being a “fluffy” person, I have yet to wear in public. Does your shopping buddy wear/style leggings as well? Would love to see a try on with her too.
Btw…Matthan and Jacob?? =)
Thanks for all you do!!
Lori, I’ll have to ask her when she comes by today. Btw, you are close, you got one of them right.
I do love leggings! Tania, where is the grey turtleneck from? Happy Tuesday ❤️❤️❤️
It is one I bought from Eileen Fisher, but it has already sold out.
Love the leggings tips and especially like the faux leather leggings
Love leggings! I guessed Matthew and John for your son’s names. John’s prophecies in Revelation are stunning and we can see them happening more and more! I love The Word and thank you for sharing scripture and mini sermons too!
Nope, that’s not their names.
I do love my leggings, though being only 5 ft tall and 100 pounds, there is a fine line between long and L O N G top that makes me look even shorter. I loved your post and suggestions today. LOL..I am sure you sons appreciate the kind momma that did NOT name them Eilhud for sure! Happy Tuesday!
Lol!
Eli and Jacob?
Nope!
I carry my weight in my hips and thighs so I have always been hesitant to wear leggings outside the house. You’ve inspired me to try them, with a long top, of course. 😉
I can see makeup brushes in your head vase! I love vintage items.
Yes, I totally agree with your rules for wearing leggings over 50! Funny thing, since styles changed, I got rid of most of my leggings. This morning, I put on a longer sweatshirt and decided to put on a pair of leggings. I figured I have to do a Walmart run and come home and do some cooking and wanted to be comfortable. I did however wonder if I’d be out of style. It never fails as soon as things go out of style they come back in again!! For me, I’ll probably just wear them around the house or for running errands. I do like to wear them when the weather gets cold or snowy and I’m wearing a chunky ankle boot. You looked great in all of them!
I usually wear mine daily since I’m home so much. I like to be comfortable while I’m working.
Thank you for this post! I love my leggings and I agree with every one of your rules. I am going into the holiday season with both faux leather and velvet leggings, but I also love my every day ones. I especially lke the monochromatic look or a column of color with a long cardigan or button-down shirt unbuttoned over. And we are just getting into the season where I can pull out my cozy long oversize sweaters to wear with leggings!
I just recently read a comment in another fashion blog that leggings are not pants. I could not agree less!
Good rules. You styled them well. However in my area women wear leggings with short tops. I could never feel comfortable walking in public like that. I’m in the tiny minority that doesn’t like leggings. I only wear them like long johns in really cold weather or as pajama pants on an extremely cold night. In Texas doesn’t happen often. I don’t like anything body con. If I’m at home I prefer soft lounge pants or soft shorts. If I didn’t work out at home I’d probably buy black leggings.
I like my bum covered! I never know what kind of underwear to wear with leggings! Not a thong fan! 😳There should be some sort of built in underwear 😂
Lol!
Love leggings and I wear with a longer top/tunic because I, too, like my rear covered. LOL
I enjoy your daily verse at the end of your posts. Thank you.
Morning – Do any of these leggings come in petites?
Bambi, a lot of the leggings come in different lengths, especially the Lululemon ones.
see another of leggings out there on all types of figures..I really don’t know if I could wear them at all.being a size 8 /10 myself I can do this love the way you help out especially Cover Your Bumm.going to get the faux leather for sure..Thanks
Love leggings and thanks for showing us shoes and boots other than sneakers to wear with them, as that is something I struggle with. Great, great post!
I’m ordering the Amazon ones today! Last year I got the Talbots velvet ones and love them! I’m 73, but spend a lot of time at the gym and running errands afterward. Love your suggestion for oversized tops to cover my rear. I wear a 1 in Chico’s too so your size suggestions help me!
I bought the Amazon 3pack leggings from one of your previous blogs and they are definitely the softest leggings I have ever worn! I also bought them for my daughter and she loved them too!
I’m glad you like them as much as I do!
Jacob and Joseph
Close, you got one of them correct.
This 68 year old has tried to wear legged tops that cover my rear, but I just don’t like them. No matter how I styled & accessorized them, I felt naked. While I don’t like seeing other women’s rear and/or mid sections, I have to remind myself that we show a whole lot more when we wear swimsuits.
lol! You are right about seeing a lot more with swimsuits.
Walmart leggings are the best bargain around!