Flare Leggings for the Office: How to Make Athleisure Work in Professional Settings

Athleisure has evolved from a casual trend to a full-fledged fashion movement, and flare leggings are leading the way as a comfortable yet stylish option for everyday wear. While leggings are often associated with the gym or lounging, the right styling can make them appropriate for the office, especially as workplaces embrace more casual, flexible dress codes.

Flare leggings, with their sophisticated and elongating silhouette, can be an excellent choice for a professional yet fashion-forward outfit. In this article, we’ll share tips and tricks on how to make flare leggings work in an office setting while maintaining a polished and professional appearance.

1. Choose the Right Fabric for a Professional Look

When opting for flare leggings for the office, the fabric plays a crucial role in determining the overall look and feel of the outfit. Choosing a fabric that’s thick, opaque, and structured will elevate your leggings, making them look more like tailored trousers than casual workout wear.

Best Fabrics for Office-Ready Flare Leggings:

Twill: Twill is a woven fabric known for its durability and structured look. Twill flare leggings resemble a more traditional pant style and offer a professional vibe.
High-Quality Polyester Blends: Opt for a matte finish in your leggings, as shiny or glossy finishes can appear too casual. A polyester-spandex blend that’s dense and opaque gives a clean, tailored appearance.
Cotton-Blend Fabrics: Cotton mixed with elastane or spandex provides a soft and structured look. Look for thicker cotton blends that retain their shape and don’t stretch out throughout the day.

Avoid:

Sheer or Thin Fabrics: Flare leggings that are too thin or see-through can give off a more casual or workout look that is not suitable for professional environments.
Excessively Soft Fabrics: Fabrics that are too soft or stretchy (like those commonly used in yoga pants) may not have the structure needed for an office-ready outfit.

2. Pair with Tailored or Structured Tops

To make flare leggings work for the office, balance the casual nature of the leggings with a more structured or tailored top. This contrast creates a professional look while still allowing you to enjoy the comfort and movement of your leggings.

Office-Appropriate Tops to Pair with Flare Leggings:

Blouses and Button-Down Shirts: A button-down shirt or blouse with a sleek design will elevate your flare leggings and add a polished touch. Look for fabrics like cotton, silk, or polyester for a sophisticated look.
Tailored Blazers: Pairing a well-fitted blazer with your flare leggings adds structure and sophistication to the outfit. A blazer in a neutral color, such as black, navy, or gray, can instantly make your look more professional.
Knit Tops and Sweaters: Opt for a fitted or slightly oversized knit sweater that isn’t too bulky. Tuck the sweater in slightly or knot it at the waist to avoid a sloppy look. A mock neck or turtleneck adds a modern touch without looking overly casual.
Long Cardigans: A structured cardigan can also complement your flare leggings. Look for cardigans with clean lines and no excessive embellishments for a sleek, office-ready style.

Pro Tip:

Avoid tops that are too short, too casual (like tank tops or cropped tees), or overly loose. These can undermine the professional vibe you’re trying to achieve.

3. Add Polished Footwear

Footwear plays a crucial role in making flare leggings work for the office. The right shoes can elevate your look from casual to professional and add a sense of authority to your outfit.

Office-Appropriate Footwear Options:

Loafers: Classic loafers in leather or suede are a great choice to pair with flare leggings. They’re comfortable, stylish, and professional.
Ballet Flats: A chic ballet flat in neutral colors like black, nude, or metallic can complement the sleekness of flare leggings while keeping the look professional.
Pointed-Toe Pumps: If you want to add some height and sophistication, pointed-toe pumps are an excellent option. A block heel provides comfort without sacrificing style.
Ankle Boots: For cooler months, ankle boots with a low to mid-heel work perfectly with flare leggings. Choose a sleek, leather boot with a pointed toe for a polished appearance.

What to Avoid:

Sneakers: While comfortable, sneakers may be too casual for the office, especially when paired with flare leggings. If you want a sportier edge, choose a stylish pair of sneakers with a clean design and minimal branding.
Open-Toe Sandals: Open-toed sandals can give off a more laid-back vibe and may not be appropriate for all office environments.

4. Accessorize to Add a Touch of Professionalism

Accessories are the finishing touches that can take your flare leggings outfit from casual to office-ready. Choosing the right accessories ensures that you look well put-together without overdoing it.

Professional Accessories to Consider:

Structured Handbag: Opt for a medium-sized, structured handbag in leather or faux leather. A simple, elegant handbag in neutral colors like black, brown, or beige adds a polished touch.
Statement Jewelry: Go for subtle, elegant pieces like a sleek watch, delicate bracelets, or stud earrings. Avoid large, chunky jewelry that could distract from the overall outfit.
Belts: Adding a simple, classic belt can help define your waist and add structure to your flare leggings. A leather belt in black or brown works well for most office settings.
Scarves: A lightweight, silk scarf tied neatly around the neck or draped over the shoulders can enhance the look and add a sophisticated touch.

5. Mind the Fit and Length of Your Flare Leggings

The fit and length of your flare leggings play a major role in how they appear in a professional setting. Well-fitted flare leggings should hug your body at the waist and hips while flaring out just enough at the knees and ankles to create a balanced silhouette.

Fit Tips for Office-Ready Flare Leggings:

Tailored Waist: Make sure the waistband of your leggings sits flat against your stomach without rolling or gaping. A well-fitted waist will keep your leggings in place all day long.
Avoid Excessive Length: Ensure your flare leggings don’t drag on the floor. The hem should hit just above the floor, or at a length where the flare subtly extends past your ankle.
Proper Sizing: Make sure your flare leggings fit you perfectly. Too tight, and they may look unprofessional; too loose, and they can look sloppy. Aim for a comfortable fit that’s flattering without being overly snug.

6. Final Thoughts: Make Flare Leggings Work for the Office

Flare leggings offer a fresh take on office attire by combining comfort and style, but to make them work in a professional setting, it’s all about balance. By choosing the right fabric, pairing them with tailored pieces, accessorizing smartly, and ensuring the fit is just right, flare leggings can easily become a chic alternative to traditional office trousers or skirts.

As workplaces continue to embrace casual, business-casual, and flexible dress codes, flare leggings provide a stylish, comfortable option that can be dressed up or down as needed. Whether you’re in a creative industry or working in a more casual office environment, flare leggings offer the perfect way to combine athleisure with professionalism.