How to Wear Jeggings

By Aniela / October 20, 2009

You've no doubt been wearing leggings and skinny jeans for the past few years, but what about jeggings? While they may seem and look intimidating at first, we'll show you how to wear jeggings in this easy to follow style guide!

What Are Jeggings?

So what are jeggings, exactly? The answer lies somewhere between leggings and skinny jeans…a cross between leggings and jeans! The word jeggings is actually a cross between jeans and leggings. Unlike regular jeans, jeggings are made of a different fabric (more of a legging material), as opposed to denim fabric.

what are jeggings

Think of leggings as a hybrid between the two! They have the soft, stretchy material of leggings, and the look of skinny jeans! Oh, and they also don't have zippers or belt loops for the most part…they're sort of like pull-ups! Because of their elastic waistband, jeggings are extremely comfortable and are flattering to most body types.

Sometimes you may see someone wearing a really fitted pair of jeans, but they could actually just be wearing denim jeggings! Some jeggings even have pockets and belt hoops, making them very hard to tell apart from regular jeans. In any case, knowing how to wear jeggings the right way is definitely something you should know, especially if you plan on wearing this fashion trend.

How to Wear Jeggings The Right Way

When it comes to wearing jeggings, there are a few thumb rules you need to follow:

#1. Finding the Right Fit

There are jeggings for all body types, and finding the right pair for YOUR body is absolutely crucial! If you're 5'4 and under, make sure you check out the petite section as regular sized jeggings may be too long in the leg. The best thing you can do is just to try on a few different pairs and see which one fits!

#2. Choosing a Wash

Although jeggins can be super comfortable, they can also be very unforgiving. Because they contour your body, they can also showcase some areas that you may not want showcased. If that's the case, we recommend you choose a darker color which will slim you down and also go with everything from a plain white tee to an oversized sweater!

So What Exactly Can You Wear Jeggings With?

how to wear jeggings

Jeggings are actually quite versatile, and I feel they do a better job than skinny jeans or leggings would. Because they're still (a very soft and stretchy) denim material, they don't necessarily have to cover your bum. Some jeggings in fact, can lift the bum up and accentuate the right curves (this is where choosing the right fit comes in!).

#1. T-Shirts

Looking to pair leggings with a cute tee? Choose a longer t-shirt and do a French tuck (where you tuck a small part of your shirt into the front of your pants). Or, if your body type permits, a crop top would also work well with jeggings. But either way, a pair of jeggings paired up with a tee is a great casual weekend look that's comfortable and stylish!

#2. Sweaters

Because they're pretty much like jeans, sweaters are their ultimate companions. Oversized/slouchy sweaters, sweater dresses, turtlenecks, or cardigans can all be worn with a pair of jeggings.

#3. Blazers

A great way to dress up a pair of jeggings is with a blazer! A blazer can instantly add a little bit of sophistication to any outfit, and jeggings are no exception.

#4. Button-Ups

Another really simple way to dress up jeggings is with a cute button-up top. To really pull the look together, tuck the front end of your shirt into the front of your jeggings (the French tuck).

But the best way to know how to wear jeggings and what to wear them with, is just to try on different combos. Grab a pair of jeggings and go through your closet – you may be surprised to find some pretty amazing combinations!

How to Wear Jeggings If You're Plus Size

plus size jeggings

You may think that wearing jeggings if you're plus size is a no-no, but I'm here to tell you that's not the case! Jeggings can be extremely flattering for all body types, including plus size, as long as you know how to style them!

#1. Find Your Perfect Fit and Color

First off, you'll need to find the right fitting pair. This may take some searching, but once you've found the right pair…you'll know! Be sure to try before you buy, and by that we mean bending over, sitting down, squatting, etc. The perfect pair of jeggings will make you feel comfortable and not restricted.

Then, it's all about styling that perfect pair of jeggings for your body proportions.

A darker wash, such as indigo, can actually slim you down and it's the perfect color to dress up or down. You can instantly go from casual to dressed-up with a dark indigo wash –  a must have in any woman's clauset!

Choose a mid-rise jegging if you're trying to cover up a belly. Low rise can make you spill over, while high rise can be too constricting and not very flattering when you're bending over.

#2. Pair With Flattering Tops

Choose a trapeze or boxy style top to balance the tight fitting bottoms. This will give the illusion of a slimmer waist and longer legs. A billowy blouse as well as a loose/slouchy tunic also works great for plus sizes. Here are some more style ideas:

  • To accentuate the waist for an hourglass figure, wear a thin, colorful belt over a long tunic top with your jeggings.
  • Pair jeggings with a long, button-up top and a tailored blazor to create that hourglass figure and balance proportions.
  • A peplum top is also a great choice to wear with jeggings as it will hide a belly and elongate the torso.
  • Wear jeggings with a long cardigan and top it off with a belt at the waist for a flattering figure-enhancing effect.

Check out Maurice's and Torrid for some amazing plus size jeggings!

Choosing the Right Shoes

jeggings with heels
Image Courtesy Of Shoe-Tease.com

When it comes to shoes and jeggings, the possibilities are endless and all depend on the occasion!

#1. Heels

For a more put-together, professional look, pair jeggings with a pair of nude-colored heels. Preferably, you should stick to pointed toe style heels as they will help give a slimming effect.

Because jeggings already lengthen the legs, pairing them with nude heels will give the illusion of even longer legs! Top that off with a tunic or a tee and tailored blazer for an office look.

#2. Pointed Toe Style

For the most flattering effect, always choose a pointed toe style when wearing jeggings, leggings, or skinny jeans for that matter. This will help to create the most slimming visual effect for the legs.

#4. Boots

Boots and jeggings go together like peanut butter and jelly! Wear jeggings with ankle boots, riding boots, high heel boots, and almost any type of boot you can think of…the sky is the limit here!

#5. Flats

If you're going to wear flats, choose a pointed toe style in a color that will match the color of the jeggings. This will give the illusion of continuity, and therefore lengthen the legs.

Lastly, avoid pairing jeggings with running shoes and flip flops as these can shorten the legs.

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FeFe
13 years ago

Jeggings are one of the hottest items this summer!! RetailTherapy.com also carries the cutest leggings for children.

sexytchr
13 years ago

I like them, but disagree with this article on one way to wear them: you should cover your butt when wearing jeggings… and please note that they should not be worn to work if you work in a professional environment!

Catherine P
13 years ago

Gymboree is now carrying these for children this year for back to school as well! 🙂

Marissa
13 years ago

Culd yu post a few articles for like teens and stuff. I’m 13 and have been looking for articles about teen-looking clothes that are un-pricey cuz i’v already started school clothes shopping. Also, have yu ever seen Wizards of Waverly Place? I LOVE how alex dresses yu think yu culd give me tips on how to sorta mimic it, without trying too hard and without it being obviouse that i’m copying it •_•

Diane
13 years ago

I adore them! I always try to make sure my butt is covered, or mostly covered though, since they are still leggings.
They are the most comfortable thing I’ve ever worn though!

Nacy
13 years ago

Jeggings do NOT work with my super-wide butt and thicker-than-thick thighs yet skinny jeans look great!! UGH and i really liked them before i tried them on at least :^(

chrissy
13 years ago

Sooooo luv’em they’re beyond comfortable & super sexy!

snark
13 years ago

Can you say, “Cameltoe?”

Marly
13 years ago

Yes ladies, please make sure your butt is covered when you wear jeggings. There’s nothing worse than seeing a huge butt that’s squeezed into a skin tight pair of pants that produces circulation issues and cameltoe. NOBODY WANTS TO SEE THAT. Just because they make it in your size doesn’t mean you have to wear it.

Ccabek
13 years ago

If u have a skinny butt legs and thighs. I suppose you could wear them without covering the hip area. I have yet to see that look good. It looks like a bad unitard. I think a nice mid thigh length tunic paired with them looks so much classier and even haeavier thighs and butts can look good. Have seen actresses on tv wearing them with short topsand all it does s accentuate the worst parts of bodies. And these women have to be skinny still looks awful.

Ccabek
13 years ago

Sorry for spelling mistakes. Not used to typing on phone key board.

petite carousel
13 years ago

hmm… I’m still trying to find one pair that does not look ratty and won’t give me cameltoe 🙁

Oh, perfect pair of jeggings, where art thou???

Jess
13 years ago

you can get really good ones in Exhibit & New look:)

Emma
13 years ago

will a hoodie look good with a pair of jeggings? can some one PLEASE answer this, i’m not sure if it will. I don’t want to wear it and look totally stupid!!! 🙂 thanx

Chloe
13 years ago

this is all silly, you can wear jeggings with a shorter top, i do it all the time and i think t makes my bum look really toned..

acacia
13 years ago

okay, so jeggings are the most gorgeous things ever, just bought a pair yesterday and i adore them. your butt does NOT have to be covered, thats where the denim look comes in handy. because some jeggings have pockets and a zipper and everything theyre identical to skinny jeans while being legging-like in terms of stretchiness.

theyre suuuper comfy and are now officially, my favourite bottoms to wear with a baggy t-shirt or a baggy, comfy sweater

Stephanie
13 years ago

I’ve always had issues with skinny jeans. I’m blessed with a curvy but slim body, but my ankles are fairly narrow so the proportions are totally thrown off, and it makes the rest of my body look big (IMO), kinda like the girl in the girl in the middle picture of the article (excepttt my ankles are smaller). So, I don’t think jeggings will solve my problem. However, my FAVORITE pair of jeans is about to give way. They were circa 2003 (yeah i know right?) and are stretchy, bootcut. Do they make any varieties of jeggings that aren’t so… Read more »

Steph
13 years ago

Hi Girls Just got my 1st pair of jeggings, and I am having an issue with the shoes. I’m 4’11 and I’m thin, I can actually wear my neice’s jeans in a 14/16 kids, so if you have curves, SHOW THEM OFF! I would KILL to have some curves…I have always been thin, and with the illness it doesnt help, but I’d love to at least have some hips and a booty! LOL I live in NY (and I’m always cold), so flats wont work, I have MS, so heels wont work as my gait is already messed up. I… Read more »

Judy
13 years ago

aww, steph. sweetheart. furry boots were more like six seasons ago (trendy in 2003/04, not so much now). i would consider a pair of leather lace-up boots with maybe even a slight heel, 1″-2″, or completely flat if it’s more comfortable and easier to walk in. or even just a plain pair of ankle boots, definitely try payless. try on a few pairs, they usually have several different styles there. anyway – i’m short, thin and petite but i have curves (blessed with a good hip to waist ratio) and i’m one of the few lucky ones that can wear… Read more »

Mari
13 years ago

Jeggings work really well with tunics. I am short with athletic legs and wear them with heels only. My tunics are not loose but slim fitting. I don’t want to emphasize my hips or make myself look shapeless with a billowy tunic. Old Navy makes inexpensive ones and I’ve found them to be of nice quality.

Ash01
13 years ago

I got black jeggins with sparkles on the bum and it really shows off my curves. If you wear them with ugs they look great. Also, wearing a tighterr shirt, such as abercrombie or aeropostale, helps to match with the tighter jeggings.

Casey
13 years ago

Bought some today. I like them. Shows off curves well. I have black vans in woman’s and they look super cute with the pants. Sort of a skater retro look.

Jennifer
13 years ago

Judy, I disagree. The size of the jegging is not necessarily the issue. I just got a really great pair of them at jcrew in a size 10. I’m definetly not tall, but I have an athletic and curvy body from years of playing field hockey and swimming as well. I think the jeggings look pretty good on me, so the issue is not the size-it’s the wearer’s confidence level and her body shape. To repeat what has already been said, if you don’t feel comfortable in them opt for another type of pant. You can also consider consulting a… Read more »

MiMi
13 years ago

I just got this pair of jeggings and they are so cute and comfy. You don’t have to cover your butt because they look like jeans. If they are squeezing you to death to where you can see cinching and fat rolling over the sides, get a bigger pair. They actually hug your butt meaning to make it curvier and looking more toned. That don’t sag as much as regar skinny jeans either, I always had that problem:P My jeggings are really comfy and they have a zipper on each back pocket and they are freaking adorable! I can’t wait… Read more »

Nancy
13 years ago

This is not professional/corporate work attire, people. Rethink that decision before you wear these to the office!!! No matter how great you think your butt looks. The rest of the world thinks you look like you forgot the skirt or are on your way to a yoga class.

acacia
13 years ago

yeah because we should all care about what you think.

Kaitlyn
13 years ago

Ok first of all…… I <3 my jeggings I bought 4 pairs. I like the way they stretch and the texture. I am a plus size girl, in juniors I wear 9,11,and 13's ( I don't wear 13's that much) and 10's in women's, and have a very big and round butt and big thighs, but these jeggings make my butt and legs look sooo nice and skinny and i am being super serious!!!! I got a black pair and 3 dark denim ones i have a tiny muffin top but look nice and lean. I have no idea what… Read more »

vanessa
13 years ago

i like the colthes but i am 10 can u put like something up for kids it will like be so cool for my friends and me to give us tips to how to dress for next year we all be in middle school next year so if you get i will be so happy thanks plz write back

Kate
13 years ago

Jeggings do NOT have to cover your butt. I wear mine to school all the time with a hoodie, or a t-shirt. Abercrombie has the best jeggings. They have pockets and a zipper, they look identical to skinny jeans. I’ve gotten tons of complements on them. They’re the best!

linda
13 years ago

Okay, first of all: jeggings look so stupid on anyone who wears them. Second: the girl who said they look CLASSY WITH SHORT TOPS has no idea what true class is. Wearing extremely tight pants is not classy, its trashy, and makes you look ghetto. Third: why don’t you ladies try wearing some fitted dresses, or nice a-line skirts? What’s wrong with being different? More men will respect you wearing a dress than a pair of “sexy” jeggings. That’s why I have a respectable man.

Super-girl
13 years ago

Since when is camel-toe the hot thing? I’m all for being proud of the vagina, but if guys were wearing jeggings it would be disturbing. Put it away. Jeggings are ridiculous. Of course, you’ll only see this in about a decade.

13 years ago

I just discovered jeggings in the past few weeks, and I’m absolutely crazy about them – they make my 47-year old butt look amazing, and they are SO comfortable! I just wish I could find some that have a higher rise, because I have to wear a long shirt or jacket with them to prevent the dreaded thong-flash and/or muffin top spillover (I am so over this stupid ‘super low rise’ trend – please, let’s have a zipper that’s at least 3″ in length, shall we?)

KD
13 years ago

Honestly, I have mixed feelings about them, after seeing Conan O’Brien wear them, yikes! I’m sure they’ll be a hit with the Emo crowd since they’re tight and come in black. They do look nice with long shirts and sweaters anyway 🙂

Udo4Accept
13 years ago

sure they look great on, but how easy are they to get OFF!! (if you know what i mean)

Jay
13 years ago

I was hating on jeggings at first too, but that was until I wore them. They’re a lot more comfortable and practical than typical skinny jeans which is part of the reason why they have become so popular. I ordered two pairs, one in black and one in grey from http://DenimJeanLeggings.com because they had real back pockets. I agree that you don’t have to cover your butt if you wear them, but alot of the tops that look best with jeggings are longer. Kim Kardashian wore jeggings with tall boots and a blazer that stopped at her waist. It looked… Read more »

Geni
13 years ago

First i’d like to say thanks to everyone with all the tips/positivity! 🙂 Then, Linda, calm down. It’s so lame for you to go bashing all these people talking about how they like jeggings. Nobody asked for your crap. Shoe wise, flats, boots and what else works?? :))) Thanks guys,

Jennifer

acacia
13 years ago

linda, you’re “respectable” man must be quite the man to put up with you. and having respect and class isn’t saying tight pants are “ghetto” and calling the way other people look that you don’t even know trashy. your man may be respectable, but i can’t say the same for you.

Miss Bliss
13 years ago

I think leggings AND jeggings are fine for professional atmospheres. Gone are the days of stiff, uncomfortable work wear. Bless + embrace your leggings/jeggings (jeg’s for casual Fridays only!) and flaunt ’em with a pretty top and a great heel or boot.

I’m a teacher and wear both of these looks and have met many professors who do the same. Relax. People will take you seriously BEYOND what you wear, as long as you talk-the-talk! 🙂

13 years ago

Sorry cros-dressing females but Tom Mix ,Roy Rogers , Cisco Kid and Gene Autry all pioneered wearing cowboy skinny / legging type pants; usually wool gabadine material and looked very masculine and upscale when contrasted with baggy pants wearing cowboys.

Beth
13 years ago

I just bought my first pair of jeggings a couple of weeks ago. At first I was against them. Sure, I love skinny jeans, and yes I love leggings under skirts…but I thought the idea was dumb. My friend convinced me to try on a pair, and I found a long tank, with a long sweater shrug to go with them and I instantly fell in love. As for the camel toe issue, wear the correct underwear and get the right size jeggings and you won’t have that problem. 🙂 I’m 5’6″ and I’m pretty average sized, curvy, especially in… Read more »

Kay
13 years ago

I do think that jeggings go well with a tunic. Also try a short jean mini-skirt over jeggings , a black top and over that, an unbuttoned plaid shirt. I like the look, and if you really want to add more, have some fun with gray laceless Converse sneakers.

trish
13 years ago

SOME type of jeegings look just like jeans, you can hardly tell theyre jeggings. with those, you dont have to wear long top to cover your butts, you can normally wear them like you wear jeans.

Heather
13 years ago

I agree with KD; after seeing Conan wear them on his show I was turned off. But unfortunatly my mother bought me a pair for christmas so Im obligated to wear them to spare her feelings. They only go with long loose shirts though. Do NOT wear them with a tight short shirt, dresses or skirts.
Jeggings suck.

Dee
13 years ago

Beth, I agree… very rude. I also have ‘class’ and I live in them! I am 37, a size 2 and I have ZERO problems showing anything that should not be seen. Knee high boots, sweater, or tunic. Fantastic. Throw on a long necklace and even a blazer, fabulous. It’s called style, style changes and not all fashion works for everyone. You don’t need to knock it, I would never wear an A line skirt but I don’t think they are stupid! If you think they are classless, dont wear them. It makes me think you live in the 50’s,… Read more »

CAguirre
13 years ago

Jeggings & Leggings are both fantastic (: They’re so versatile and are a waredrobe must have for everyone. I disagree with needing to cover your hip area. It you’ve got it; flaunt it.

The end of Comment #19 displeased me very much. If you’re bigger than a size 4, you have just as equal chance of pulling these off as anyone. It just depends on your fashion knowledge. You may be like me, very toned upper body and abdomin with very toned muscular legs. You can still work them ;]

Dakota
13 years ago

I have been thinking about getting a pair of jeggings BUT im kinda a bigger girl 5’2 and 10 to a 12 are normaly my sizes and I don’t where many skinny jeans, because im a little inscusre about my weight and a small muffin to. I worry my muffin top would really show and I wouldnt even wanna where them. I seen some smaller girls at my school whereing them booty showing and all and she looked great in them. I mean i dont know i think its a really cute idea but maybe not for me????

Fay
13 years ago

I just bought my first pair and I absolutely love them. They are the most comfortable pair of jeans I have ever worn. But I can only wear them with long mid-calf sweaters and tunic tops as I have belly fat to cover. But I look way better in these than in any of my other plus size clothing. Now I can dress like I’m thin even when I’m not. 🙂 as long as key areas are well covered.

CLB
13 years ago

I think it’s funny how all the women are like “they’re so sexy and amazing” and the men are like “uhm, NO.”
just thought it funny – i mean who do women dress for? (mostly i mean)

CLB
13 years ago

Oh and despite that the chick featured in the top of the article on the left is skinny and hot doesn’t change the fact she totally has Cameltoe! The other two look fine though.

Lilly
13 years ago

@Emma
Trust me, I got like 6 hoodies for back to school in the fall, and they looked good with my new jeggings if they were NOT really fit. If they were a little big on me, it looked good. Also, if you don’t like getting hoodies that’s bigger on you, pull it down then with a wide belt put it at where you would put a belt, and it will look pretty, I think. I hate wearing tops that are big on me, and I hate them if their small so I do the belt thing. Hope that helped!

Annika Åkerlund-Wheble
12 years ago

I just love skinny-jeans and jeggings, as you don’t get a hard button in your tummy and seeing as I have a great bum, but narrowish hips they create a curve on my body. I will ALWAYS wear jeggings, no matter my age, though maybe not torned ones when I get older.

A question; Which brands sell jeggings for us who are shorter? I’m 5ft2, as you were talking about jeggings with shorter legs.

artsybrooke
12 years ago

it really irritates me to see people say that bigger girls won’t look good in a pair of jeggings or skinny jeans. I’m a bigger girl and have always felt that if I bought a pair then people would judge me in public for wearing them but now I don’t care. A darker wash jegging actually has a very slimming effect for my body type and i absolutely adore the pair i got!! Just because we have big asses or thighs gives other people no right to tell us we shouldn’t wear certain things, if you feel beautiful and confident… Read more »

Rick
12 years ago

i’m a guy, and I love jeggings. I own 3 pairs, my girlfrind can’t keep her hands off me when I have them on.
every time I out and about in them I alwas get positive feed back. I allways run into at lest 2 or 3 ladys saying one of two things. 1 more guy would buy them. 2 That there boyfriend would try on a pair. Also I have been hit on more then a few time in them.

Bel
12 years ago

Jeggings look great if you’ve got long, toned legs or at least toned legs if you’re wearing a thigh length tunic shirt oor jumper They look pretty dreadful if your bottom or from leg split shows – with a too short top just below waist or hip length top – on anyone – good figure or not. If you’ve got a fat bottom or thicker / fat thighs, then wear a very long above knee top or dress or don’t wear them at all. Don’t wear then with clumpy boots or shoes. They look better with slimmer flat pumps or… Read more »

Kayla
12 years ago

I have two pairs of jeggings, but they’re more on the legging side, ( Which means they are leggings, they only LOOK like jeans) They do NOT look good with short tops. You have to cover your butt. Otherwise your butt is hanging out and you look ridiculous, and classless. This is my opinion, and I’m not trying to hurt anybody. But this is only for the jeggings more on the LEGGING side. There are jeggings that are more like jeans,(They even feel like jeans when you touch them, but they are still the legging fit, etc.) and when you… Read more »

mich
12 years ago

I always need a tight control panty when wearing. VPL a problem.

Trish
12 years ago

I like jeggings alot I think there comfortable and very look great with long shirts. I wear them most of the time with heels . My husband likes me to wear a pair of 2 to 3 inch mules with them.

Kate Sanders
12 years ago

I wear Jeggings ALL the time! I wear them to work/clubbing/dinner and I think they can be worn without a long shirt! Mine just look like jeans (I bought them at Target). I say wear what makes YOU feel good 🙂

That’s all that matters anyways 😀

Marabuu
12 years ago

I got my first pair of jeggings today and I have to say I really really like them! They are the cheaper leggings-that-look-like-jeans type of jeggings but are still super comfortable and look amazing with my boots!! One problem with these is the pockets look huge… And I don’t even have a big butt… But they look awesome with a long t-shirt which is my wardrobe staple 🙂 I bet if I bought a more expensive pair (j.crew, hollister, abercrombie) jeans-that-stretch-like-leggings type of jeggings it would look better. But these are amazing!! I am going back tomorrow to buy a… Read more »

Gabi
11 years ago

I love Jeggings! I´m a size 2 and my hips/butt/thighs are pretty tiny, so I don´t see a problem with wearing them with short tops (although most of my jeggings look more like skin tight skinny jeans than leggings). If you buy the right size and fit for your body, you won´t get the dreaded camel toe ;p
As for shoes, I wear them with super high heels (boots or pumps) and ballet flats or flat boots. I dont like mid-size heels.


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