8 Shoes to Wear with Leggings This Spring That Aren’t Sneakers

I swear there will be no working out.

One thing you can bet every woman already has in her wardrobe is a pair of plain black leggings. Whether you gravitate towards full length, capris, flared, slits, or stirrups–– slim-fitting bottoms have solidified their place as a closet staple since the dawn of the athleisure movement. Spandex has come in and out of style throughout the decades, with a major moment in the ‘80s and another (questionable) stint in the late 2000s/early 2010s. But somewhere along the line, many of us left leggings behind as a fashion statement and reserved them solely for our favorite workout classes.

I, however, think the stretchy bottoms can be quite high fashion if styled with the right accessories, specifically shoes. Case in point: Pieter Mulier’s Spring/Summer 2024 Alaïa collection, where he sent faux leather-coated stirrup leggings down the runway with pointed leather pumps. The look has since been recreated by megastar Miley Cyrus during a recent intimate performance of her Grammy-winning single, “Flowers”. Take it from Cyrus: leggings can be so much more than yoga pants when paired with elevated footwear.

Pointed pumps are just one of many stylish options to slip on to make your outfit look like you’re going anywhere but pilates. I’m most looking forward to wearing mine with a fitted, cinched-waist blazer, long white socks, and black loafers this Spring. Your favorite models, celebrities, and editors are already interpreting the trend in their own ways –– so take note.

Below are the eight best shoes to up your leggings game this season. 

Kitten Heels

Kitten heels will always be my holy grail for making an outfit seem more polished than it actually is. They’re an easy and, most importantly, comfortable piece that transitions well from day to night. The modest heel is an absolute must-have for an effortless, off-duty look and lends itself particularly well to stirrup-style leggings.

Loafers

Classic black loafers should be a staple in every woman’s closet. More sophisticated than sneakers but less serious than heels, leggings tucked into boldly colored leggings are the answer to achieving a casual yet smart springtime look.  If you want to add more visual interest to your look, try pairing your leggings and loafers with a dress.

Ballet Flats

If there’s one trend that has arrived in a big way this spring, it’s the viral coquette aesthetic everyone seems to be trying out. One item that almost always seems to be featured in their outfits is a pair of ballet flats. So why not wear your leggings with ballet flats that have ribbon-like straps for a dance-inspired feel to your look?

Patent Slingbacks

Want to nail the trend? Show a little leg by pairing capri leggings with your favorite pointed-toe patent slingbacks. This combination will accentuate your ankles while giving off a businesswoman on-the-go vibe. Play with proportions by pairing the look with an oversized jacket.

White Pumps

Arguably, one of the chicest ways to make a statement with your leggings look is to pair a totally monochromatic outfit with white pointed pumps. The white contrast will complement full-length or zipper leggings in any hue and still satisfy your inner minimalist while adding a bit of edge.

Flatform Sandals

Feel free to ditch your typical sandals now that we have flatforms. A cross between flats and platforms, what makes this hybrid so unique is their practical nature while still having that cool factor. I can’t think of anything more fitting for your leggings.

Metallic Kitten Heels

Brands like Khaite, Prada, and Gucci are leading the way for fashionistas who want to dip their toes into metallic embellishments. What better way to add some more shine to your wardrobe than a pair of playful silver kitten heels?

Tips

Style your outfit like a pro by adding a pair of socks to your shoes and leggings for a playful or sporty touch.

Ankle-Strap Sandals

Good news: It’s that time of year again when it’s appropriate to strut around in strappy sandals. We love the subtly chic look of tucking your full-length leggings under a dainty ankle strap. This understated style will have you looking like the most fabulous person in the room.

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