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You need leggings that won’t fall down, are seriously anti-stink, and will never show off your polka-dot undies mid-squat. But sometimes, you just want to look good.
Whether you’re working up the courage to chat up your gym crush or just want to post a sweatie selfie, there are those athleisure moments when performance isn’t at the top of your spec wish list.
Enter the Well+Good testing squad: a group of 10 women—with different heights, weights, and body shapes—who each tried on 17 pairs of tights to find out which were the most flattering across the board.
Enter the Well+Good testing squad: a group of 10 women—with different body shapes—who each tried on 17 pairs of tights to find out which were the most flattering.
We reached out to all of the big-hitter brands and asked them which styles were known for their butt-lifting, leg-sculpting prowess—and then followed up to request those in all sizes.
The results? Shockingly similar, considering our models ranged from size 0 to 12 (and 5-foot-1 to 5-foot-11). Below, you’ll find our list of the 10 resounding favorites. A few didn’t make the final cut, but deserve an honorable mention: Our tallest judge raved about American Giant’s Pant Legging, while Spiritual Gangster’s Practice Legging was a fan favorite for comfy lounging. But come on—with tights that make you look this good, who’s hanging out at home?
In no particular order, here are the 9 most flattering leggings for all sizes.
Lululemon Align Pant II, $98
“These slip on like silk—I don’t think these could not fit anyone. And they’re so soft and buttery, they get my vote for best sisterhood of the traveling legging.” —Lindsay Harnett, marketing manager
Reebok Speedwick Color Block Legging, $65
“I refuse to wear anything other than high-waisted pants—and the same goes for leggings. These color-block gems were the perfect belly-button-grazing fit, and were so comfortable I felt like I could wear them for days.” —Eva Medoff, senior editor
Spanx Shaping Compression Knee Pant, $78
“These were so form-fitting—I definitely felt the compression. I’d wear these to work out or even just around the house.” —Nicole Spurling, senior client services manager
Beyond Yoga Spacedye Long Legging, $88
“These are the softest leggings ever. The fabric is thick so it hides anything you want to cover and the super-high waist is so comfortable.” —Abby Maker, graphic designer
Alo Yoga High-Waist Airbrush Legging, $82
“These have amazing support, a perfect fit, and are a great length—I want to wear them all day long.” —Hannah Weintraub, social media associate
Lululemon Fast & Free 7/8 Tight, $89
“The seams on these act as very flattering, but discreet, body contouring. Plus, they don’t dig in anywhere, and I feel like I could go on a run or do yoga in these.” —Ella Dove, video producer
Nike Zonal Strength Tight, $85
“I felt like a mermaid in these leggings! The pattern makes them look super-streamlined and slimming—and made my butt look great.” —Erin Flynn, assistant branded content editor
Koral Moto Legging, $46
“These definitely have a cool factor to them, and the leather was super-flattering. I might be more inclined to wear these out at night, but they’d look great with any kind of top.” —Jenna Cantagallo, design director
Sweaty Betty Zero Gravity Crop Run Leggings, $140
“The pattern on these were very subtle but acted like a natural camouflage. Plus, the lightweight fabric was both slimming and comfortable.” —Nicole Spurling, senior client services manager
Originally published April 19, 2017; updated July 6, 2018.
Next on the list: cute tops—here’s what’s buzzy for spring. And FYI retro sneakers are having a major moment.
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