THE LOOK:
Summer Sunset Leggings from Lilies & Lemons Boutique ($18) // Similar CALIA by Carrie Underwood T-Shirt ($50) // Similar Urban Outfitter’s Cardigan ($59) // Similar Manolo Blahnik Boot ($837)
First of all, let’s get clear that while some very special leggings do quality as pants, most patterned and printed leggings do not because the fabric tends to be thinner. I just love how beautiful the colors are in this pair from Lilies & Lemons Boutique – they really do look like a summer sunset. The fabric is so soft and smooth it’s like butter!
So, how do you go about styling a pair like this?
1.) Pick a plain shirt
Leggings have a fitted, straight look (you probably knew that already), so contrast that with a looser shirt up top. You have enough going on below the waist, so keep it plain with a solid color tee or tunic here. Styling is about balance, so prints are balanced with a solid, brights are balanced by a neutral – you get it.
2.) Layers are your friend
I love how the cream cardigan contrasted nicely over the blue shirt and added a neutral color to the top half of this look. Plus, it added the necessary bum coverage for when one wears leggings and created a nice silhouette to the look overall.
3.) Add boots
The taller the boot, the more it will break up the look. If you feel the pattern is overwhelming, go with a boot that hits below or above the knee. If you’re up for showing off more color, ankle booties will look great! Stick with a heeled boot to elongate your legs.