Like Arc'teryx jackets and Hershel backpacks, leggings are part of the fabric of life in B.C.
Maybe the Aritizia/Lululemon roots have made British Columbians so amenable to stretchy pants. Still, it's not unusual to see people wearing leggings at restaurants, work, concerts, bars – basically, anywhere that isn't the gym.
It feels like the humble legging has earned a spot in nearly every closet — regardless of age, gender, size and style preference. This is thanks to a rise in work-from-home style (business up top, party on the bottom) and luxury athleisure brands and influential celebrities embracing elastic waistbands. But that's what makes leggings so great: there is no limit on how to wear them. Dressed up with heels, dressed down with sneakers, paired with a tunic or worn with a crop top (anyone who wants to debate whether or not showing a butt in leggings is appropriate can take their time machine back to 2015) — it is the most versatile wardrobe staple since the white tee.
SKIMS Shimmer Legging
Who it's ideal for: Shoppers looking for leggings that are more couture than cozy.
Why we're endorsing it: Kim Kardashian's SKIMS line is all about body-con loungewear that can be worn on a Zoom call or out for dinner with Pete Davidson. The are much more glamorous than plain black cotton leggings – the attention-grabbing, glamorous style is true to the Kardashian aesthetic.
Where it could use improvements: Love 'em or loathe 'em, buying these products supports the Kardashian juggernaut.
Size/weight/dimensions: XXS-4X
Price (subject to change): $70 at .
Aerie's Real Me High Waisted Crossover Flare Legging
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who misses OG Lululemon pants.
Why we're endorsing it: Flare "yoga" leggings are back, and no one is quite sure how to feel about it. With a fitted leg and bootcut-style ankle, both cropped and full-length versions are worn with chunky sneakers or sandals. These are leading the pack.
Where it could use improvements: For shorter legs, flare leggings could drag.
Size/weight/dimensions: Limited sizes available right now.
Price (subject to change): $64.95 at .
Amazon Essentials Capri Legging
Who it's ideal for: Someone who wants a standard black legging.
Why we're endorsing it: Amazon's basic is a no-fuss poly-spandex blend that comes in multiple colours, a wide range of sizes and hundreds of 5-star reviews based on quality, fit and price.
Where it could use improvements: There is not much information on where/how the Amazon Essentials are manufactured.
Size/weight/dimensions: XS-XXL.
Price (subject to change): From $21 at .
Knix's HiTouch High Rise Legging
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants a pair of high-quality leggings from a Canadian company.
Why we're endorsing it: Knix is best known for its leak-proof , which has targeted compression areas and an extra-wide waistband for maximum support and shaping.
Where it could use improvements: These leggings are made to perform and look more like athleticwear than the others on this list.
Size/weight/dimensions: XS-XXXXL
Price (subject to change): $98 at .
Stirrup legging from Simons
Who it's ideal for: Anyone who wants to put a sophisticated twist on elastic waistband pants.
Why we're endorsing it: seem to have a fashion influencer moment every few seasons, particularly when paired with loafers and a striped sweater for a "French woman running errands" look. It's more comfortable than jeans but more sophisticated than athletic or cropped styles.
Where it could use improvements: More info on fit/size conversation would be helpful.
Size/weight/dimensions: XS-XXL.
Price (subject to change): $69 at .
