Jeggings: Comfy and Chic

Remember laying down on your bed to squeeze into tight jeans?

Those days of squeezing into skin-tight denim are long gone. But it's not because we aren't still wearing slim-cut jeans (we are!), it's just that technology has given us fabulous denim that can fit like a glove and still feel like you're wearing a comfy knit.

Take, for example, jeggings. These jean/legging hybrids have been trendy in the contemporary arena for several seasons, and are just now trickling down to retailers like Chico's who make clothing for grown-ups.

If, like me, you've put off trying jeggings because you thought at first that leggings and skinny jeans were just for kids, you may be missing out on the tremendous flattery of the long-over-lean silhouette.

My jeggings in the photo are a sample from contemporary maker Cult of Individuality ($88 at Bloomingdales and boutiqes) and feature a super dark overdye wash (which I happen to love) and 5-pocket styling of a regular jean. They get their legging look from a very slim fit through the legs and a 2% stretch from Spandex. But despite the fact that they look tight, I was able to bend down and play with the dogs and be comfortable even though they look like a regular jean (and despite the fact that contemporary labels don't always accommodate my over-45 curves.)

If you're looking for a more alternatives, Gap also does several legging jeans that are more of a cotton/poly blend (soft with loads of stretch.)

Want even more comfort? Chico's jegging is really more of a legging with a knit fabric and faux jean details. 

How to Wear Jeggings:

• My first concern with leggings of any type is to find a long, lean top to cover at least to mid-thigh. The last thing you want with jeggings is to have your butt hanging out from underneath a too-short top. Longer sweaters and tunics look great, as do belted vests.
• As for footwear, I like jeggings with ankle boots, tall boots or wedges. I think the long, lean line of jeggings looks better on all women when paired with a heel (not a dainty stiletto, think something more substantial like a wedge.)
• Premium denim sometimes requires a little extra care. I wash my dark overdye jeans inside out to try and keep the dark color.
• Body types that might be able to pull off jeggings: If you have extra-curvy or muscular thighs and calves, then jeggings may make you look disproportionately large on bottom. You'll get more flattery with boot-cut jeans. If you are top heavy, make sure the top is lean (not bulky) so that you won't get the lollipop effect from the skinny bottoms.