With the kind of attention they have been getting in the media and in fashion circles in the past decade, you would think that leggings (along with their close cousin, tights) were new inventions. However, it would be a mistake to think that this is the first time close-fitting leg garments have been popular. Leggings have had on-and-off popularity for millennia and it seems like the trend has come back around. These days, it’s no surprise that people have begun to shop leggings and other form-fitting pieces frequently again.
Wool leggings are a traditional garment for both men and women in many colder parts of the world. Native American peoples, for example, have been wearing buckskin leather leggings, and have done so for thousands of years. Fast-forward a few centuries: if you were a respectable man in the Renaissance period from the 13th to 16th century, you wouldn’t be seen outside without a fine pair of leggings. They were also a form of practical clothing for dancers and military personnel alike.
Clearly, leggings have been around for quite a long time. Their relative popularity at various points in history outpaces even their popularity today.
Of course, beyond their appearance, the leggings, tights, and hosiery products of today have a lot going for them that historical examples don’t. Here are a few reasons why leggings are now experiencing another surge in popularity:
THEY ARE MUCH MORE COMFORTABLE THANKS TO MODERN MATERIALS
The fashion industry has certainly come a long way from rough wool and buckskins. Modern tights and leggings give you unlimited freedom of movement, and you have all the choices you could possibly want when it comes to warmth and breathability. They can be worn for unmatched comfort for virtually any activity, from running a marathon to relaxing on the couch.
THEY ARE RAPIDLY GAINING ACCEPTANCE IN THE WORKPLACE
Leggings can be worn for almost any activity, literally. While it was an uphill battle at first, leggings and tights are now gaining widespread acceptance in workplaces all over the world. Some brands even offer leggings with twill textures that are perfect for virtually any business casual environment. Now you can stay comfortable while looking professional in almost any work setting.
THEY’RE PERFECT FOR SHOWING OFF A WIDE RANGE OF SILHOUETTES
While the ideal body shape changes from generation to generation, the comfort and versatility of leggings and tights are proving to be timeless. They can be used in a variety of looks to flatter virtually any body shape. And while styles and trends have evolved over the past decade, leggings and tights have lost none of their popularity. Contrary to most other trends, they just keep getting more popular with time.
THEY CAN NOW BE USED TO SAFELY SCULPT YOUR FIGURE
New varieties of leggings can be used to do more than just show off your figure—they can actually give you the shapes and contours you’re looking for. These new varieties of comfortable shaping leggings have virtually ensured that these garments will be more than just a fad.
THEY ARE EXTREMELY VERSATILE GARMENTS TO OWN
If there is any reason why leggings and tights have not declined in popularity over the past couple of decades, it’s because of their unmatched versatility. They can be used like normal pants, as layers, as part of a smart-casual ensemble, for serious exercise, or for lounging around the house. There is nothing that the right pair of leggings or tights won’t do for you.
Indeed, leggings and tights have become more than just a temporary trend. They are now an essential part of many people’s wardrobes. Whatever your style, body shape, or functional requirements, it only takes but a few minutes these days to find the perfect leggings or tights.
