Leggings. They are the ultimate comfort piece. But the way you style them could be creating an outdated look. We are talking about specific outdated legging trends that need to be left behind. Personal stylist Cynthia Kennedy has seen it all. She notes that leggings have been a staple in closets for decades. And while fashion has shifted toward looser fits, leggings themselves are not going anywhere. The problem is how we pair them. Kennedy exclusively tells Glam that a number of these pairings look like they belong in the mid-to-late 2010s. The good news? Fixing them is easier than you think. Let us walk through the five biggest offenders so you can look current, polished, and put-together in 2026.
Are Tunics Still in Style with Leggings? (An Outdated Legging Trend)
For a long stretch, the long tunic top paired with skin-tight leggings was the unofficial uniform of busy women everywhere. It was easy. It offered coverage. It was comfortable. But according to Cynthia Kennedy, this combination has run its course and is one of the primary outdated legging trends to leave behind.
The ‘Pinterest Mom’ Uniform is Out
Kennedy explains that this pairing looks like it belongs firmly in the past. She calls it the go-to “Pinterest mom” uniform. The proportions feel heavy and too predictable. Adding riding boots to the mix only makes the outfit look more dated, Kennedy advises. Instead of reaching for a long tunic, she suggests a cropped jacket or a fitted sweater. These choices create a balanced silhouette that flatters rather than hides your frame. The long top cuts off the legs at the widest point. A cropped jacket, in contrast, defines the waist and creates a longer leg line. This small swap instantly modernizes the entire outfit.
What About Shiny Leggings for Everyday Wear?
Shiny, patent-leather-looking leggings had a major moment. They felt edgy and bold. However, the everyday legging has evolved toward quieter sophistication. If you are still reaching for a glossy pair to run errands, it is time to reconsider.
Reserve the High-Shine Look for the Gym
Cynthia Kennedy thinks shiny leggings should only be reserved for the gym. She shares that they can look too sporty when worn with regular clothing instead of workout wear. The sheen catches light in ways that draw attention to areas you might not want highlighted. It also clashes with the relaxed texture of most casual tops. For a more elevated approach to at-home style, Kennedy recommends the Align High-Rise Pant from lululemon. These leggings offer a beautiful matte finish. They feel like a second skin. They pair effortlessly with sweaters, blazers, and everyday tops without screaming “athletic wear.” The matte fabric absorbs light rather than reflecting it, giving a smoother, more intentional silhouette.
Can I Wear Printed or Mesh Leggings?
There was a wave, especially in the mid-2000s, when leggings were the statement piece. Galaxy prints, loud florals, and mesh paneling were everywhere. Today, those choices look distinctly dated. If you have a pair of mesh-panel leggings sitting in your drawer, it might be time to donate them.
Why Cleaner Designs Win in 2026
According to Cynthia Kennedy, you will not see busy printed leggings or dramatic cutouts in everyday style now. Cleaner, more elevated designs have taken their place. Structured silhouettes with a minimal finish are the way to go. Printed leggings are difficult to coordinate. They often clash with the structured tops many love today, such as crisp button-downs or tailored blazers. An all-black legging, or one with a subtle texture like ribbing, fits seamlessly into a capsule wardrobe. It becomes a reliable foundation piece rather than a loud statement that dictates your entire outfit. Donating your old galaxy-print and mesh-panel leggings clears space for versatile pieces that work harder for you.
What is the Modern Alternative to Waterfall Cardigans?
The waterfall cardigan became a staple for its draping effect and ability to add movement to an outfit. Paired with leggings, it was a go-to for running errands or working from a coffee shop. But Cynthia Kennedy gives this specific pairing a firm “no.”
The Waterfall Cardigan and Leggings Combo is a ‘No’
Kennedy says that the waterfall cardigan with leggings is a firm “no.” The long, flowing lines combined with tight leggings can look sloppy rather than intentionally casual. The cardigan drags the eye down. It creates a triangle shape that makes you look wider than you actually are. Instead, she recommends trying a cropped jacket or a structured sweater. A cropped denim jacket instantly adds shape. A tailored blazer brings instant polish. Even a fitted leather jacket creates a more intentional line than a flowing cardigan. The goal is to create a clean, defined silhouette. If you love the comfort of a cardigan, try a shorter, fitted knit cardigan that buttons at the waist. This keeps the cozy factor without the shapeless drape.
The Outdated Trend of Sheer and Shiny Fabrics
Beyond style, fabric is the defining factor of a modern legging. The era of thin, see-through, low-quality spandex is over. The focus today is on durability, opacity, and a refined appearance. Accepting cheap fabric is one of the most overlooked outdated legging trends.
The Rise of the High-Quality Matte Finish
Cynthia Kennedy emphasizes that a quality, well-fitting high-rise legging in a matte fabric will have a longer life than trendier versions or anything with flashy finishes. She recommends looking for thick, durable material that stays opaque when you move. A good test is the squat test. If the fabric turns sheer at the seams or your skin shows through, leave them on the rack. The same goes for leggings that have a high sheen. Kennedy reminds clients that the “best” legging isn’t the trendiest. It is the one that flatters your proportions, works with the rest of your closet, and stays opaque. Brands like Spanx offer excellent options for elevated basics. When shopping, prioritize compression and a matte finish. These fabrics hold their shape wash after wash and look more like tailored trousers than workout gear.
How Should I Style Leggings for a Current Look?
Now that we know what to avoid, how do we build an outfit that feels fresh and intentional? The goal is polish. A good pair in black or another neutral color goes with anything and creates a flattering, slimming silhouette. The key is treating them as a refined base layer, not the star of the show.
Building a Polished, Intentional Outfit
Start with a high-quality black or neutral pair of leggings in a matte finish. Think of them as a sleek foundation. Pair them with a structured top. A crisp white button-down, a fitted cashmere sweater, or a classic blazer all work beautifully. For footwear, swap riding boots for clean white sneakers, ankle boots, or loafers. This creates a modern, put-together vibe that respects the comfort of leggings while elevating the overall aesthetic. The difference between a dated look and a current one is often just one or two pieces. A cropped jacket instead of a long tunic. A matte legging instead of a shiny one. These small swaps have a big impact. Your leggings should work with your wardrobe, not against it. When you build outfits with intention, you look effortlessly stylish rather than stuck in a past decade.
Frequently Asked Questions
What specific fabrics should I look for to replace my shiny or sheer leggings?
Look for a thick nylon-spandex blend with a high percentage of nylon for durability. The fabric should have a matte finish rather than a glossy one. Hold the leggings up to the light; if you can see through the fabric, it is low quality. A squat test will tell you everything you need to know about opacity.
Is it ever acceptable to wear leggings with a long sweater or tunic today?
It is best to avoid the long tunic and legging combination entirely, as it creates heavy proportions that look dated. If you love a longer sweater, try belting it at the waist to create structure. Alternatively, choose a sweater that hits at the hip rather than below the seat. This keeps the line clean and modern.
How do I know if my leggings are making me look dated?
Check for three things: shine, shearness, and how you style the top half. If your leggings are shiny, see-through, or paired with a long tunic or waterfall cardigan, they are likely making you look dated. Swap these elements for matte fabrics, opaque quality, and structured tops or jackets to instantly refresh your look.
Updating your legging style does not mean giving up comfort. It means making intentional choices that flatter your body and fit the current fashion landscape. Step away from the heavy tunics, the shiny fabrics, and the shapeless cardigans. Embrace matte textures, clean lines, and structured layers. Your leggings will thank you, and your reflection will look refreshingly current.
