Leggings are a winter wardrobe essential for curvy women they offer comfort, stretch, and a sleek foundation for layering. The secret to making them work in winter is focusing on length, texture, and structured tops to create flattering, balanced silhouettes.
Here are 12 stylish and cozy plus size winter outfits built around the versatile legging.
The Tunic & Sweater Layers (Comfort & Coverage)
The key to a great legging outfit is a top layer that hits below the hips for comfortable coverage.
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1. The High-Low Tunic and Fleece-Lined Leggings
Pair fleece-lined leggings (essential for winter warmth) with a soft, high-low hem tunic sweater that covers the rear and front. Look for tunics with side slits; they provide movement and prevent the fabric from clinging to the hips.
2. The Ribbed Knit Tunic and Belted Cardigan
Wear a simple, fitted thermal turtleneck over the leggings. Layer a long, ribbed knit cardigan on top and use a wide, elastic belt to cinch the cardigan just above your natural waist. This defines your shape while keeping the hips covered.
3. The Denim or Chambray Tunic
A structured denim or chambray tunic shirt is great for a polished, casual look. Wear it buttoned over your leggings, and layer a quilted or utility vest on top for added warmth and texture.
4. Oversized Flannel and a Long Tank
For a casual, cozy weekend look, wear a long, fitted black tank or cami that provides a smooth base. Layer a colorful, oversized flannel shirt worn open or tied loosely at the front. The cami provides the necessary coverage under the flannel.
Elevated Leggings (Texture & Structure)
Using non-traditional legging materials elevates the look from casual wear to chic street style.
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5. Faux Leather Leggings and a Chunky Knit
Faux leather or wet-look leggings instantly dress up any outfit. Pair them with a thick, textured cable-knit sweater that hits mid-thigh. The contrast between the matte, chunky sweater and the sleek, shiny leggings is fashion-forward and flattering.
6. Ponte Knit Leggings and a Long Blazer
Ponte knit leggings are thicker, more structured, and look closer to trousers than cotton leggings. Wear them with a fitted long-sleeve tee and a longline boyfriend blazer. This ensemble works well for casual office environments or lunch dates.
7. Velvet Leggings and a Velvet Tunic
For a luxurious winter look, choose velvet leggings in a deep jewel tone (burgundy, emerald). Pair them with a matching or complementary velvet tunic top. This monochromatic, textured look is incredibly cozy and elegant.
8. The Sweatshirt Dress over Leggings
A long sweatshirt dress or hoodie dress is the ultimate in comfortable layering. Worn over leggings, it provides maximum warmth and a relaxed streetwear vibe. Finish with chunky combat boots or clean fashion sneakers.
Essential Layers & Footwear
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9. Layer with a Long Scarf
Keep the neck warm and add a vertical line to elongate the figure. Pair a long top/tunic with a chunky knit, extra-long scarf that hangs straight down to provide a slimming, vertical visual element.
10. Thermal Baselayers
On the coldest days, double up! Wear a thin thermal or wool-blend legging underneath your primary fashion legging (or high-waisted jean/trouser). This is the secret to staying warm without adding visible bulk.
11. Ankle Boots with a Low Heel
Pair leggings with heeled or block-heeled ankle boots. The small lift helps lengthen the leg line, and the ankle boot provides structure at the transition point, balancing the softness of the leggings.
12. Tunic and Puffer Vest Combo
A medium-length puffer vest over a long-sleeve tunic top provides core warmth and a sportier feel. The vest adds a great contrasting texture to the soft fabrics underneath.
What is your favorite layering piece to wear over leggings?
