Flare leggings have made a major comeback in recent years. This retro activewear staple gives a nod to 70s fashion with its distinct flared leg silhouette. While flare leggings can sometimes give off a retro tracksuit vibe, they can also be styled in chic, modern ways. If you’ve jumped on the flare legging trend and need styling inspiration, here are some fashionable tips on how to wear these eye-catching bottoms.
Consider Length When Selecting Flare Leggings
Flare leggings come in varying lengths, each creating a different aesthetic. Here are some popular options:
Full-Length Flares
Full-length flared leggings offer a very retro look, giving you the complete bell-bottom silhouette. This style hits right at the ankle for a leg-lengthening effect. Full-length flares pair perfectly with heels or platform shoes to keep your legs looking long.
Cropped Flares
Cropped flared leggings are a great option for showing off your shoes. The flare bottoms stop anywhere from mid-calf to just above the ankle. This length looks great with strappy sandals, loafers, or white sneakers.
Capri Flares
For a more modern take on flares, capri-length leggings are a great choice. The flare leggings hit mid-calf, allowing you to highlight your shoes without overwhelming your frame.
Match with Form-Fitting Tops
Flare leggings make a bold style statement on the bottom half of your outfit. Keep things balanced by opting for a slim-fitting top. Form-fitting t-shirts, bodysuits, and crop tops prevent your flares from looking overpowering. A fitted top offsets the volume of the flare bottoms.
Tuck in Your Top
Want to show off your flare leggings even more? Tuck your top into them! This styling trick highlights the silhouette of the flares and creates a streamlined look. Tucking in a simple tee or tank into high-waisted flares polishes the outfit instantly.
Front Tuck
For a more relaxed vibe, do a front tuck with just the front portion of your top. This creates a bit of shape while still allowing room to move.
Full Tuck
Tucking in your entire top accentuates your waist and shows off the flare silhouette. Use this full tuck method when you want to showcase your leggings.
Layer with Jackets and Kimonos
Layering up top balances out the look of flared leggings. Throwing on a jacket or kimono breaks up the volume on the bottom while still showing off the flare shape. Some chic layering options include:
Denim Jackets
A classic denim jacket gives off a casual vibe and looks great with flares. Opt for a cropped denim jacket to keep your leggings visible.
Blazers
For a dressier flair, layer your flares with an oversized blazer. This creates a smart, tailored look.
Long Kimonos or Cardigans
Lightweight kimonos or open cardigans complement the leggings when you want a flowy layer. A long kimono or cardigan that hits at mid-thigh is an easy way to add coverage while showing off the flares.
Accessorize for Added Interest
The right accessories take your flared leggings from basic to fabulous. Statement earrings, belts, and eye-catching shoes upgrade any flare legging outfit.
Hoop or Drop Earrings
Draw attention upward with dangling statement earrings. Medium to large hoops or drop earrings pair nicely with flares.
Wide Belts
Cinch your waist with a wide belt over your top or jacket. This highlights your waistline above the flared legs.
Fun Footwear
Make your shoes the star of the show by rocking playful flats, strappy heels, or bold sneakers with your flares. Platform shoes also complement the leggings’ silhouette.
Create Fashionable Flare Outfits from Day to Night
During the day, keep it casual with flats or sneakers. At night, amp it up with heels and more glam accessories. Here are some sample outfit formulas:
Daytime Flare Outfit
- Cropped flared leggings
- Fitted t-shirt or tank tucked in
- Denim jacket
- Sneakers or flats
- Small hoops or stud earrings
Night Out Flare Outfit
- High-waisted flared leggings
- Lace bodysuit
- Kimono-style cardigan
- Strappy heels
- Statement drop earrings
Casual Weekend Flare Outfit
- Capri flared leggings
- Graphic t-shirt half-tucked
- Platform sneakers
- Baseball cap
- Bold cuff bracelet
Flare leggings allow you to make a stylish statement while staying comfy. Follow these fashion tips, and you’ll be rocking your flares with modern flair.
Conclusion
Flare leggings offer a fun, retro-inspired look that pairs perfectly with today’s crop tops and oversized layers. Choosing the right legging length, tucking in tops, and accessorizing thoughtfully lets you style flares for any occasion. With the right styling, flare leggings can be fashioned from day to night for a look that is cozy, eye-catching, and chic.
FAQs About Styling Flare Leggings
What shoes look best with flare leggings?
Platform shoes, heels, and strappy sandals complement flare leggings by adding height and elongating your legs. Chunky sneakers and flats can also be worn for more casual flare outfits.
What tops are best with flared leggings?
Fitted, tucked-in tops like bodysuits, cropped tanks, and t-shirts balance out the volume of the flares. Oversize tops can overwhelm the leggings’ shape.
How do you avoid looking dated in flare leggings?
Modern shoes, jewelry, and hairstyles prevent flare leggings from skewing too retro. Cropped, capri and ankle lengths also give a contemporary vibe.
Can you dress up flare leggings?
Yes! Pair flares with strappy heels and a fitted top to instantly dress them up. Add glitzy jewelry and a leather jacket for a night out.
What jacket goes with flared leggings?
Denim jackets and blazers complement flared leggings. Cropped denim jackets maintain balance with the leggings’ flare. Oversized blazers add polish.
