These Leggings Peg Me as a Millenial, So Now I'm Shopping These Gen-Z Approved Styles

kendall jenner

(Image credit: @kendalljenner)

Like any good millennial, I spent the better part of the early aughts comfily clothed in a pair of flare leggings — or as I knew them at the time, yoga pants. I still remember my first pair was from Lululemon, long and black with a pink stripe at the waistband. I’d saved up from my babysitting gigs to buy them my sophomore year of high school. Meeting up with my friends on a Saturday afternoon, I still remember how cool I felt in my “Lulus,” as I called them, styling them with a pair of Ugg boots peeking out from underneath.

I’ve come a long way in developing my sense of style in the 20 or so years since I first embraced the flared legging, and in fact I’d spent at least a decade forgoing flares completely, addicted to skinny jeans and leggings that were tight from ankle to hip. But, as Gen Z began their nostalgia-driven campaign to bring them back into the fashion conversation, I’ve slowly become convinced.

Though I still stand by the fact that more fitted workout gear is still better suited to the gym (no clothes catching on machines, no stepping on hems), I’ve found a new place for yoga pants in my wardrobe, namely as a casual weekend staple for long walks or lounging on the couch. They're unfussy and comfortable, so I can see why the generations below me have decided to embrace them once again. Ahead, I’ve not only shopped out some of my favorite flared leggings, but also included some outfit inspiration to help you embrace them if like me, it took some convincing to get back on the wagon.

a woman in flared pants

(Image credit: @sophiabrenn)

kendall jenner in yoga pants

(Image credit: @kendalljenner)

a woman in leggings

(Image credit: @discodaydream)

a woman in leggings

(Image credit: @valentinaferrer)
Aemilia Madden
Contributor