How to Wear Leg Warmers with Flats

Leg warmers and flats can look effortless and playful.

Though leg warmers are usually reserved for the dance studio, fashion ushered in their return to the mainstream. Used to keep leg muscles warm during dance practice, or for a look inspired by the 1980s, leg warmers are a cute way to stay trendy without a lot of effort. Wearing leg warmers with flats can give you the "Flashdance" look of the 1980s without the feathered bangs and bad dancing.

Things You'll Need

• Flat shoes
• Leg warmers

Instructions

1. Start with a simple skirt. The easiest way to wear leg warmers, and not look like you are coming fresh out of dance practice, is to wear them with a trendy but subdued skirt. You may opt to wear leggings under the skirt (a contrasting neutral like black or gray works well) and then pull the leg warmers up to the knee over the leggings. They should start at the low ankle and be scrunched about an inch below the knee. Pull on your flats (ballet or Mary Janes) and you are ready to go.

2. Wear your skinniest leg jeans with a classic, but trendy top such as a shrunken cardigan, or a button down. The jeans should be skinny enough to wear something outside of them without scrunching up around the knee area. Wear neutral color leg warmers in a solid pattern and pull them on over the jeans. Again, they should start at the low ankle and end just below the knee. To add character to this cute but classic look, pair with sparkly or satin ballet flats instead of plain black leather.

3. Pair leg warmers with simple leggings and a trendy oversized top. A mini-dress with leggings in colder months, or a men's button-down shirt belted at the waist with a wide leather belt will also look playful and chic. Think about balancing the bulk on the leg warmers on the bottom with a top that's flowing or a chunky sweater. When you're wearing delicate shoes, like flats, you need depth elsewhere, such as a plush leather tote or a brightly colored scarf.

Tips & Warnings

• Don't pair a dancer's skirt and an oversized top with leg warmers. It will make you look heavy and out of proportion. Leg warmers are great for balancing wide shoulders and large hips, but wearing big layers all over will ruin the effect.

References

• iBeauty Fashion: How to Wear Leg Warmers with Flats
• The Budget Babe: How to Wear Leg Warmers