As a fashion editor, I encounter new trends every single day. Some are destined for greatness, while others fizzle out before the month is over. The relentlessness of the fashion cycle is something I know all too well. Don’t get me wrong—I love a good trend. But after seeing countless fleeting ones come and go, I’ve learned to prioritise timeless pieces over trend-driven buys where I can. And for me, few items are as timeless or versatile as a simple pair of black leggings.
Ask any other fashion editor, and they’ll tell you the same: a great pair of leggings is a wardrobe staple worth its weight in gold. But here’s the catch—not all leggings are created equal. While the fashion set has tirelessly tested and debated the best pairs, the market is flooded with options which makes it hard to stay on top of the ones worth putting your money behind. However, there’s one clear frontrunner we all seem to agree on: Spanx leggings.
Not the only ones who swear by them, this week I found out that Claudia Winkleman, host of television series Traitors is a fan of the enduring classic, too.
Styling a jet-black, form-fitting pair of Spanx leggings, the presenter wore hers with a black velvet blouse, a neatly fitting black blazer, and a tall pair of Bottega Veneta Lug Chelsea Boots (£1080). Keeping to a monochrome colour palette, Winkleman elevated her styling by integrating rich textures and trending cuts so that, despite her outfit championing an item associated with loungewear or athleisure, she looked incredibly chic.
A long-standing staple in the wardrobe of fashion editors—including Who What Wear‘s Editor in Chief, Hannah Almassi and Deputy Editor, Maxine Eggenberger—Spax leggings are beloved for the sculpting and lifting effect that hugs the body without restricting it. Thick enough to avoid looking sheer, and with a matte jersey finish that keeps them looking polished, not sporty, these classic leggings tick all of the boxes. While Winkleman stuck to the classic black pair, the brand also offers velvet and leather-like styles for those seeking a more elevated take on this wardrobe essential.
In my opinion, there’s no better time to refresh your leggings collection than the sluggish month of January. To shop the editor-approved leggings we keep coming back to, read on to discover our edit of the best Spanx leggings below.
SHOP SPANX LEGGINGS HERE:
Spanx
Ecocare High-Rise Stretch-Jersey Leggings
The high-rise finish offers extra hold and comfort.
Spanx
Ecocare High-Rise Stretch-Jersey Leggings
Classic black leggings are a wardrobe staple I’ll never get tired of.
The velvet finish makes these easy to transition to the evening.
Harvey Nichols
Moto Black Faux Stretch-Leather Leggings
Style these with tall boots and warm knit throughout the winter months.
SHOP OUR OTHER FAVOURITE LEGGINGS HERE:
Mango
Mid-Rise Skinny Leggings
These come in sizes XXS—4XL.
Marks & Spencer
Magic Shaping High Waisted Leggings
These also come in a deep navy shade.
H&M
Heavy Jersey Leggings
The seam detailing gives this an elevated edge.
Falke
Women Tights Maximum Warm
These also come in white and red.
James Perse
Stretch-Pima Cotton Jersey Leggings
Style with trainers for a sporty look or dress these up with knee high boots.
The Frankie Shop
Reya Ribbed Stretch-Jersey Flared Leggings
Classic black leggings are a wardrobe essential you’ll never tire of.
Reformation
Ecostretch High Rise Legging
Shop these whilst they’re on sale.
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