As I was scrolling through pictures of celebrities wearing leggings, I was reminded that celebrities never stopped wearing them, even though the internet routinely claims they’re “back”. What fluctuates is the way in which they wear them. Currently, celebs are wearing them as pants more often, as opposed to just for pilates class and the gym. They’ve also been more creative with how they style them for pilates and the gym lately. It’s a fun development, and it makes the rest of us want to get creative with them too. One of the ways to do that is via the shoes we wear with them, and celebs have been providing plenty of inspiration in that arena.
Below, I’ve highlighted five specific shoe styles celebrities always reach for when they wear leggings as of late, and three they never do, just in case you’re wondering. Scroll on to see Hailey Bieber, Gigi Hadid, and more celebrity legging wearers, and shop the shoe styles they’re prioritizing.
The Skips: Ankle Boots, Stilettos, Platforms
I’m well-versed on celebrity legging outfits, given my job, and I couldn’t tell you the last time I saw a celeb wearing leggings with ankle boots, stiletto heels, and dressy platforms. I’m not surprised in the least, as these three styles tend to make leggings look dated and don’t balance out the tighter-than-tight pants proportionately the way that, say, sneakers or knee boots do.
Chunky Knee Boots
Chunky knee boots with leggings are a cool, flattering combination that celebrities love to wear in the fall and winter. Knee boots are the go-to way to dress leggings up (see Bella Hadid below for proof). Kendall Jenner is another celeb fan of the pairing.
(Image credit: Backgrid)
On Bella Hadid: Alo High-Waist Airlift Leggings ($125); Saint Laurent coat and Y Tote Shoulder Bag ($3600); Miu Miu Leather Boots ($2550)
Shop Chunky Knee Boots
Slipper Shoes
If you love the ease of flip-flops with leggings but not the look, consider a pair of slipper shoes—a major trend for spring. They’re effortless and chic, as Laura Harrier recently proved.
(Image credit: SL, Terma/Backgrid)
On Laura Harrier: Saint Laurent Le 5 à 7 Supple Leather Shoulder Bag ($2650)
Shop Slipper Shoes
Chunky Sneakers
Chunky sneakers (especially with crew socks) give leggings that ’90s feel that celebs like Kaia Gerber love. And they’re the most comfortable shoe style on this list, so there’s that.
(Image credit: Javiles/Bruce/Backgrid)
On Kaia Gerber: Adidas hat; Asics sneakers
Shop Chunky Sneakers
Ballet Flats
If you like your legging outfits to look prettier than average, do as Hailey Bieber did earlier this year and wear them with ballet flats. Her elastic-strap pair gave her outfit even more of a ballerina feel.
(Image credit: Backgrid)
On Hailey Bieber: Saint Laurent bag; The Row Leather Ballet Flats ($820)
Shop Ballet Flats
Sporty Sandals
Sporty sandals such as flip-flops, Tevas, and Birkenstocks are a natural pairing with leggings. Gigi Hadid, Laura Harrier, Kaia Gerber, and Kendall Jenner are also fans—often with the addition of crew socks.
(Image credit: Tatiana/Backgrid)
On Gigi Hadid: Lack of Color hat; Arizona Love Trekky Flower Mix Sandals ($173)