When I talk about leggings in this article, I'm referring to any body hugging slim cut stretchy pant such as tights, yoga pants, athletic pants, etc. When women started wearing leggings it was taboo to wear them out and about as pants, however as times have changed and our communities have become more casual, wearing leggings has become more normalized.
Why do women wear leggings?
The number one reason women wear leggings is because they are easy and comfortable. Leggings, especially black leggings seem to mix and match with any top, sweater, sweatshirt, or dress. They even work perfectly with booties, boots, heels, tennis shoes, and ballet flat. They literally can be worn with any shoe, shirt, or accessory. They have become the little black dress of the causal wardrobe.
The second reason women wear leggings is because they allow for movement. There is nothing worse that being restricted from movement by a tight uncomfortable pair of pants, or loose pants that get in the way. They are great for running errands for this reason.
The third reason women wear yoga pants is because they are extremely easy to care for. Most are machine washable and dry in the dryer. The spandex and synthetic fibers that make tights smooth, stretchy, and opaque are also very durable and resist pilling. This makes yoga pants look great for a long time.
The fourth reason women love to wear tights are that they are forgiving when we change sizes/weight or have monthly bloating. Yoga pants allow for flexibility in size without additional cost as they often stretch a size or two.
Which Yoga Pant do I choose?
Not all leggings are created equal. Fine fabrics are often also moisture wicking or sweat wicking and resist pilling. Quality designers also make sure to provide adequate butt coverage and tummy panels. There is nothing worse that putting on a pair of pants that is cut the same for the front and the back. Most women are not built this way!
Fabric:
When looking at legging options one of the most important features is that the legging is opaque, or will not be see through when bending down. Brands like Undersummers use high quality fabrics with a buttery soft feel, tighter weave, and more spandex to provide a non-see through experience.
Cotton fabrics are soft and natural but do tend to fade over time. They can also be sometimes see through. Cotton does like to absorb moisture and heat so this makes a good choice for cooler days or sleep.
The Lux Cotton Long Underwear Legging
Ponte knits have the forgiveness of a knit, but the versatility of a woven. These heavier weight knits are perfect for more structured pants. They tend to fit a little snugger and have less stretch than an athletic yoga pant and are suitable to dress up or down for work. For women who want more of a hug feel, the ponte legging is for you. We love to dress Ponte leggings up or down with a pair of ankle boots or knee high boots. These are a must have in black and other smart classic colors such as navy.
Yoga Pants are distinctively stretchy often with 10% or more spandex. Usually a quality yoga pant will be a spandex and nylon or polyester blend. Both provide ample stretch and mositure wicking properties. With the exceptional stretch of the blends, these make an excellent high waist pant because of the 4 way stretch. We love to see yoga pants with crop tops, tanks, and long tunics. Every women needs at least one black yoga pant (or 7 wink).
Leggings with Pockets are a must have as well! Pockets provide easy access and hands free activities. Look for pockets that sit higher on the hip for a more secure feel.
At Undersummers we don't differentiate between plus and other sizes. All of our garments are made for an exceptional fit for every size. Every style and color is offered in size range from small to 5X plus.
With all the legging choices in the marketplace it can be hard to choose. At Undersummers we value being an American company with made in the USA leggings. We support our local community and mental health/suicide prevention initiatives. When you purchase Undersummers garments, you are helping support our local community and economy.
