Sequin dresses are typically reserved for New Year’s Eve — after all, it’s a holiday that deserves a lot of sparkles (and is right around the corner). But don't feel like this is a once-a-year outfit that just has to hang in your closet afterward. These jazzy and sparkling frocks don’t get the year-round love they deserve. Did someone say birthdays and date nights? What about a trip to the DMV? Why not wear a shimmering sequin dress more regularly and make every occasion feel Champagne-worthy? It’s a jazzy statement piece to keep in your wardrobe when you want a bit more pizzazz for the day or night.
We’ve put together the best options for incorporating more detailed duds into your wardrobe, ranging from mini, midi, and maxi to full-length gowns. Plus, we found an array of shining colors of black sequin dresses, luxe gold hues, and multicolor holographic shades. Ahead, peruse through 15 styles too pretty to only wear on December 31. It’s time to shine.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. All product details reflect the price and availability at the time of publication. If you buy or click on something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
Stay snazzy in a sequin mini, whether dancing to the beat at your birthday party or at a holiday gathering. To keep December temps at bay, drape a leather jacket or cropped blazer over your shoulders.
Urban Outfitters Finn Sequin Mini Dress, $, available at Urban Outfitters
Venus Belted Sequin Wrap Dress, $, available at Venus
En Saison Harper Mini Dress, $, available at Shopbop
Aidan by Aidan Mattox Halterneck Beaded Minidress, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
NA-KD Big Sequin Blazer Dress, $, available at NA-KD
Sequin Midi Dress
A midi style is an appropriate in-between option for a festive party with family or coworkers. It's elevated without feeling too formal — an still has lots of sparkle.
Eloquii Dolman Sleeve Sequin Dress, $, available at Eloquii
& Other Stories Fitted Wrap Midi Dress, $, available at & Other Stories
Reformation Vidette Dress, $, available at Reformation
Sequin Maxi Dress
A longer dress lets you cover up from the cold a bit more and sparkle more. A New Year's Eve win/win in our book.
Jaded Rose Plus Long Sleeve Maxi Dress In Purple Sequin, $, available at ASOS
Lulus Magnificent Love White Sequin Strapless Maxi Dress, $, available at Lulus
Maeve One-Shoulder Sequin Dress, $, available at Anthropologie
Karen Millen Plus Size Sequin Midi Dress, $, available at KAREN MILLEN
Sequin Gown
Is there a list of soirees on your schedule? Make a statement with a luxe cascading sequin gown in stunning hues of midnight black, slate blue, or gold.
Nookie Leilani On Shoulder Gown, $, available at Revolve
Mac Duggal Sequin Surplice A-Line Gown, $, available at Nordstrom
Miss Ord Women's Formal Halter Sequin Tassel Bodycon Gown, $, available at Amazon
Black leggings, divisive as they are, have undeniably become a fashion staple. So much so, there are brands (apart from LuLaRoe) dedicated to delivering the "perfect" legging. But with the range of styles out there — cropped, not cropped, high-rise, mid-rise, faux leather, super-soft leggings, leggings with pockets (!!!), performance, loungewear — choosing which ones are right for you takes some thought.
Turning to the internet is your best bet when you need to comb through the infinite options available — and luckily, we’ve done most of the legwork (!) for you. (See what we did there?) We've curated a roundup of the top-reviewed black leggings across the world wide web, and added some reader-favorite option based on an explosion of suggestions in the comments section. (Thanks, fam.) Covering everything from the best budget leggings to leggings you can wear to work (yep), this list is bound to help you find your ride-or-die black leggings. Click through to see which leggings come out on top.
Welcome toHype Machine, our hit-list of the top reviewed products across the web — according to a crowd of die-hard shoppers. Call this your 4-star & up only club, with entry granted by our devoted-to-the-goods shop editors.
At Refinery29, we’re here to help you navigate this overwhelming world of stuff. All of our market picks are independently selected and curated by the editorial team. If you buy something we link to on our site, Refinery29 may earn commission.
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 49 reviews on Vuori.com
These breathable but supportive leggings are made BreatheInterlock technology to wick away sweat, a high-rise waistband, and side pockets big enough for your phone. "These are so great! Even better than the daily legging that I got a few years ago. The fabric is very slightly thicker and holds better imo from my previous non-pocket pair. The high rise is just right, doesn't fall down, and the tie is flattering. The pocket is such a welcome feature, although I do wish it was just slightly bigger. I don't want any non-pocket leggings now!" writes one reviewer. "I love the way these leggings fit, they hug my body perfectly and stay exactly where they should. So happy to have pockets too and the drawstring adds the perfect accent."
The Hype: 4.8 out of 5 stars and 52 reviews on Athleta.com
These glossy leggings are as stylish as they are durable. Reviewers rave that they stay in place and are comfortable and supportive even during the most intense physical activity. "These leggings look good in and out of the gym and fit perfectly. They stay in place and are comfortable even during the heaviest of workouts," writes one reviewer. "Hesitated to get these because of the shine, but the shine is their beauty! Flattering and delicious to wear — for workouts and day-outs alike," another reviewer shares. "Fabulous for layering with platform shoes under long dresses to keep a bit warm in winter. Wouldn't mind them in a 'natural' shade now as these are a great alternative to tights!"
Athleta Salutation Stash Shine Tight, $, available at Athleta
Girlfriend Collective
The "So Good It Launched An Entire Brand" Legging
The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars and 17,226 reviews on Girlfriend.com
Girlfriend Collective may have only launched in 2017, but thanks to the brand’s comfortable leggings made from recycled plastic bottles, the activewear imprint has already gained a cult following. If you had any doubts you can clear them now, as reviewers share that the leggings are truly worth the hype. "I saw the reviews too. I was skeptical too. I thought: ‘They’re just a pair of leggings, why are people so obsessed?’ too. But they are. They really are just the best leggings. They have the perfect amount of compression — enough to keep you together but not a battle to get in to. They’re the perfect rise. They don’t go sheer. They don’t pill. They just work so well. I don’t even notice I’ve sweat in these. I love," writes ones reviewer. "A forever-favorite. The compression is substantially more compress-y than it used to be back in the early days [of the brand], so I tend to size up in all of the compression items," another reviewer shares. “However, once I figured that out, I can absolutely LIVE IN THESE leggings. So soft, so high quality, they pass the squat test.”
Girlfriend Collective Black Compressive High-Rise Legging, $, available at Girlfriend Collective
Skims
The Pajama Legging
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 1,152 reviews on Skims.com
You can count on Skims, maker of super-luxe intimates, lounge, and sleepwear, to offer incredibly soft ribbed cotton leggings that you'll wear straight to bed (and never want to take off). "I will be ordering more sets like tomorrow because these are the best leggings I’ve ever had on I’ve put them in the dryer and they don’t get lint balls and I can wear them for hours without feeling itchy on my thighs," writes a reviewer.
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 4,313 reviews on Lululemon.com
Lululemon can take a good chunk of credit for kickstarting the athleisure trend. While not the most popular leggings from the brand, this pair has seen the most consistently positive reviews. "The Fast and Free tights are hands down my favorite and best tights Lululemon has to offer. [They] have a moderate compression around the waistband and an adjustable waist string to tighten during your runs. They are lightweight and feel like a second skin," writes one reviewer. "I wear these tights for yoga, strength and conditioning, everyday wear, and for running. The side pocket is a great feature, especially when running, to hold your phone. I am 5'2 and the length of the tights fit me perfectly so I don't have to get them hemmed. My only complaint about these tights is that darker colors will fade slightly and the light sheen will fade, but other than that I would recommend these tights to everyone." Word to the wise: promptly add your favorite hue to your cart, as items can sell out fast. "Absolutely LOVE, LOVE these leggings! They feel like a second skin on! They look and make me feel great! I love wearing them out and about because I can put my key and phone and wallet if I want to be hands free wherever I go," another reviewer shares. "Please restock. I’ve been so bummed they’ve been out of stock. Please keep the colors coming, I’ll buy them in every color."
Lululemon Fast and Free Tight 25", $, available at Lululemon
Zella
The Essential Legging
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 7,290 reviews on Nordstrom.com
Few legging brands see as much public praise as Zella. These high-waisted leggings tout moisture-wicking technology great for running at the gym or running errands. "These leggings really live up to their 'live in' name. They are so comfortable, I didn't want to take them off! (I actually wore them two days in a row.) The material is super buttery soft and thicker so you don't have to worry about underwear showing through. Also, the little pocket in the front is perfect for keys, smaller phones (no iPhone plus), cash — basically anything you don't want to/can't carry," writes one reviewer. "I’ve had these for almost a year now and I cannot say enough good things! I live in the Rocky Mountains in Colorado, and I mostly do outdoor activities in these," another reviewer shares. "I rock climb, hike 14’ers, scramble over ridges, run trails, and more in these and I they never fail. They’re never too hot, they truly do swick sweat away. And NEVER ride down. 12 mile hikes and I don’t have to pull them up once."
Zella Live In High Waist Leggings, $, available at Nordstrom
Hue
The Basic Leggings
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 195 reviews on Zappos.com
Is perfection achievable? Reviewers on Zappos seem to believe that they’ve found the legging gold standard in this classic pair from Hue. "Pretty much the gold standard in 'basic' leggings. These are TOTALLY opaque (nobody's gonna see your underwear or anything else, even if you're bending down), extremely comfortable (you might as well be wearing pajama pants, they're truly that comfy), and the wide waistband is a godsend to all of us, let's be honest," one reviewer raves. "I feel like the waistband needs to be talked about, because I've worn other brands with wide waistbands that don't work well for me (the waistband rolls down, doesn't stay where it's supposed to, is placed/sits at an odd length, etc.). None of those problems with these! You put that waistband right where you want it and it's gonna stay there and hold you in and it will not ride up or down!...And you can wear these with ANYTHING! Casual with t-shirts, I wear them at work with blouses and blazers, tunics, underneath dresses or skirts, at the gym, as pajamas (I do, they're so comfy!)"
HUE Ultra Leggings With Wide Waistband, $, available at Zappos
Uniqlo
The Classic Cool Weather Legging
The Hype: 4 out of 5 stars and 5 reviews on Uniqlo.com.
Uniqlo's Heattech fabric comes in clutch during the cooler months. Wear them on their own to lounge at home or layer under trousers and denim when the icy temps roll in. “Highly recommend!! They are amazing in every way I have NO COMPLAINTS. I recently bought my bf a pair as well with the top. They don’t bunch up or ride up (no wedgies!). They are soft to the touch, lightweight but still able to block the cold from my legs. Will purchase more in the upcoming weeks," writes one reviewer. One of the best perks about these leggings is that you can wear them to the office and then lounge in them when you go back home. "[The legging is] everything you want in WFH pants — comfy enough to lounge around at home, looks great enough to go out any time. It's warm. It's got pockets! What else could you wish for? Got these in both gray and black," another reviewer shares.
Uniqlo HEATTECH Ultra Stretch High-Rise Leggings Pants, $, available at Uniqlo
We frequently hear that Outdoor Voices’s midweight “textured compression” fabric is delightfully substantial for those times you want a little more structure in your leggings lewk. “Absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE the feel and fit with the perfect amount of compression. Stays in place for a good flow and inversions! I get so many compliments wearing them. I will be buying more," writes one reviewer. "Love this product, and love this color way. I am on the verge of buying the full unitard as well. These leggings are INFINITELY more comfortable than OV initial iteration of leggings, and they are soft and thin- breathable but probably not the best for cold weather running, but that’s fine because I live in San Diego, AND they have pockets. 10/10 product. No complaints," another reviewer shares.
Outdoor Voices Zoom 7/8 Legging, $, available at Outdoor Voices
Spanx
The Going Out Legging
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 3,582 reviews on Nordstrom.com
If you're of the "ride or die" variety when it comes to leggings, then you know they’re not just for daytime wear. These faux leather leggings are your Friday night’s new best friend. "I’ve been looking at these leggings for over a year! I wanted them but wasn’t sure I could justify the cost for 'leggings'... seriously, don’t even think twice! They are amazing!! The can be dressed up or down so easily! They are so comfortable and really do compress/smooth in the right places!!! I immediately ordered the motto [sic] style the day these came because I love them so much! I am 5’ 5”, 140 lbs and ordered a medium! They fit great," writes one reviewer. "I could even lift and stretch in these! Breathable as well! Spanx give great shape and DO NOT camel toe! No wrinkling/scrunching of that area! They do have more silvery sheen to them, and a waistband." another reviewer shares.
SPANX Faux Leather Leggings, $, available at Nordstrom
Stirrups are back in a big way — which is great timing for all you legging-wearers who detest leggings that ride up the ankle. Get a pair of stirrup leggings over your arches, layer on a pair of fuzzy socks, and then you're good on the tucked-in look the whole day. "Giddy up! Love the stirrups and softness of fabric. The stirrups have kept my ankles warm," writes one reviewer. "I didn’t know I needed stirrups in my life again, but these pants made me rethink that! They are buttery soft and dark black and comfortable enough to wear daily," another reviewer shares.
Universal Standard Ronda Stirrup Legging, $, available at Universal Standard
Splits59
The Flared Legging
The Hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars and 109 reviews on Split59.com
Add a little kick, a little flare, and a little bell to your leggings look! If wearing skinny-fit leggings as pants in public isn't your thing, this silhouette is surely way more passable. "I love these leggings. They flare at the perfect spot and the fabric great quality. Very flattering as well," writes one reviewer. "I truly want to buy 5 more pairs of these leggings. I'm 5'9, but still struggle to find leggings that are the perfect length and don't drag on the ground without a platformed shoe. These leggings are the perfect length while providing a slightly high-waisted style as well. Could not recommend more!! Better than Lululemon by far. The fabric is thicker and has better overall quality," another reviewer shares.
Split59 Raquel High Waist Flared Legging, $, available at Splits59
Aerie
The Super Soft Legging
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 935 reviews on AE.com
If you're looking for leggings that are equally soft and stretchy, look no further. "I wear leggings all year round and I try [pairs] from all over, but these leggings from Aerie are my #1 favorite. They dominate my closet and I LOVE them. I’m 5’ 1”, 125 lbs and the medium fits perfect on me. They aren’t see through and are so soft. I recommend these leggings to everyone as they are the best ones I have ever come across that are such a great price," writes one reviewer. "I am 5’ 11” and 24 weeks pregnant with baby [number three]. I needed to find leggings to get me through the last half of pregnancy that weren’t too constricting, but also stayed put, sat lower than my belly and were long enough! These fit the bill! Can’t believe they actually go down to my ankles! And I don’t find them to be see through at all," another reviewer shares.
Aerie OFFLINE By Aerie OG Legging, $, available at AE
L.L. Bean
The Fleece-Lined Legging
The Hype: 4.3 out of 5 stars and 883 reviews on LLbean.com
The secret weapon to winter outfits? A pair of fleece-lined leggings that can be worn solo (in lieu of tights or stockings) or under roomier pants for double-layer warmth. These winter leggings are a solid choice — in addition to the legging's insulating powers, reviewers also rave that these don't ride down. One reviewer even likened them to "form-fitted sweatpants." (Comfort at its finest.) "Just what I needed for early morning dog walks and mountain hiking. It keeps me warm in single digit temps but I don't overheat as I warm up during the walk. Soft, very comfortable and much less bulky than the snow pants I was wearing during cold weather activities," writes one reviewer. "I own four pair. I can move, bike, clean, and sit comfortably in these. Bought my first pair, and came back for more. A great versatile pant for active women. Wash beautifully and still look like new," another reviewer shares.
L.L. Bean Primaloft ThermaStretch Fleece Tights, $, available at L.L. Bean
Carbon38
The Luxury Legging
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars and 170 reviews on Carbon38.com
Who said leggings couldn't be luxurious? The Takara legging comes in a glossy liquid finish for that perfect model-off-duty look and according to reviews are the perfect mix of fashion and function. One review exclaims "They are so beautiful...I got compliments the first time I wore them. They stay put no pulling them up!" while another pleased customer raves "I wore these to the gym for the first time last night and had 3 compliments before I ever got to any equipment! The fit, the color!!!! Loveee!! If I could get away with wearing them every night...I would! Get these, you won't be disappointed!"
Carbon38 High Rise 7/8 Legging in Takara Shine, $, available at Carbon38
Athleta
The Elongating Legging
The Hype: 5 out of 5 stars and 3,556 reviews on Athleta.com
With a classic high waist and ever-so-slightly longer inseam, these super-compressing Athleta leggings will lengthen and strengthen just as effectively as your daily downward facing dog. "Great multi purpose tights. I am 5’9”, 145 lbs and ordered size medium, tall. The fit is excellent and I appreciate the somewhat longer length and comfortable high waist on these tights," writes one reviewer. "I buy a different brand, which I thought was the best, but decided to shop here for leggings [because I received a gift certificate]. The price here is a tad bit cheaper and the quality is even better than my other leggings. My new [favorite] store for leggings," another reviewer shares.
Athleta Ultra High Rise Elation Tight, $, available at Athleta
Leggings Depot
The Best Budget Legging
The Hype: 4.4 out of 5 stars and 4,398 reviews on Amazon.com
Ballin' on a budget? These under-$15 leggings on Amazon come with a plethora of rave reviews. "Soft, comfortable, flattering, and long-leg-friendly. I am 6' and medium build with a 34" inseam, and these hit right at the top of my ankle bone — a very satisfactory and versatile length for a legging. The fit is sleek in a good way, hugging curves without being either too-tight and revealing or too loose and baggy," writes one reviewer. "I have the black color and it is dark and opaque enough to wear a more cropped shirt with if desired. No see-through sections at all. The waist is high, hitting right at my natural waistline. I'm partial to a high waist (and this is the point in the review where I out myself as a mom of five), but if you want a lower rise these may not be the leggings for you. Overall, I am very happy with these and would consider ordering additional pairs or colors. They replaced a pair of dying big-box store leggings and totally blew them out of the water in fit and quality, at the same price point."
Leggings Depot High Waisted Active Flex Leggings, $, available at Amazon
Nike
The Performance Legging
The Hype: 4.5 out of 5 stars and 68 reviews on Nike.com
When you're in need of actual "workout" leggings, turn to these. This performance pair comes with a high waist and a nifty little back pocket to hold small things.
"Great quality and fit, stays in place and doesn't roll down after a run so you don't have to keep pulling them up which is great! Nice soft material, neither too thick nor thin, just right! Will definitely buy more," writes one reviewer. "These are the absolute best workout leggings ever. They’re very comfy, smooth to the touch and handle sweat very well. I bought the brown color and absolutely love [the color]. I love the almost seamless part at the ankle. I plan on buying the purple pair. I would suggest you size up. I’m a medium but bought a large and they fit perfect," another reviewer shares.
Nike Nike One Luxe Mid-Rise Leggings, $, available at Nike
Legging-like pants to work? Banana Republic reviewers say yes. These slightly stretchy-yet-structured, legging-trouser hybrid are just the trick to feeling comfortable during your 9 to 5. "I never give reviews, but these pants are really worthy of a good review. I travel frequently and I discovered these pants before my last trip in August. Beyond comfort, you can dress up and down, they look stylish, and do not stretch to the point of hanging. Love them!" writes one reviewer. "Sleek and stylish details elevate these leggings. Can dress them up or down." another reviewer shares.
Banana Republic Skinny Luxe Sculpt Pant, $, available at Banana Republic
Adidas
The Classic Athleisure Legging
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 128 reviews on Adidas.com
These best-selling leggings are almost ubiquitous within the tights-enthusiast community. While known for their minimal appearance and signature 3-stripes, the standout detail is the snug fit and 93% cotton construction — meaning this classic Adidas pair offers both form and function for the stylish and sweat-inclined. "I didn’t expect the quality. It was so durable. It fit perfect, made my rear look on point, I’ll be investing in every color. Top-notch I’m still speechless," writes a reviewer. "Perfect fit, stretchy fabric but doesn’t fall down when working out.," another reviewer shares.
Adidas Adicolor Classics 3-Stripes Tights (Plus Size), $, available at Adidas
Gap
The Lounge Legging
The Hype: 4.2 out of 5 stars and 31 reviews on Gap.com
Looking for a pair of leggings that are as basic as they come? Look no further. This tried-and-true Gap pair will have you buying more than one so you can wear them 24-7. "I own five pairs of these. Two are in constant rotation and three are back ups because I'm afraid Gap will stop making them. They are quite long which is no problem because I always wear them inside boots. I find they fit large overall, [so] I sized down. I take care not to wash them with anything cotton or light colored, and I *try* to hang them to dry after putting them through the machine. They are holding up very well. I highly recommend them as a basic style but really good legging," writes one reviewer." Yet, some reviewers are hesitant about the jersey knit fabric, as the fabric is not hot-weather approved. However, these leggings are quite different. "First time ordering these leggings from the gap and was skeptical about the material. [However], the material is great, super comfortable for everyday use regardless of the occasion! Definitely ordering more pairs and in the navy and grey! Overall super satisfied and would definitely recommend," another reviewer shares.
The Hype: 4.1 out of 5 stars and 6,409 reviews on Amazon.com
We understand. The idea of an item being one size fits all is skeptical. Yet, these Viv Collection's snug high-waisted leggings feature an elasticized waist. That's not all, as the waistband is wide and has a super strong tension, so you can easily go from rock climbing to walking your dog. Even better, the pair comes in a wide range of sizes, two different lengths, and whopping 14 colors. "I think after purchasing six pairs of these it’s time to offer some feedback on them. These leggings are amazing!!! I held off on trying them for such a long time and wish I [had] gotten them sooner!! They are soft and feel great. Even better than the ones [sold] on Facebook!! Some ppl don’t like the waistband but their yoga leggings have the wide waistband made of fabric is the elastic one is not your thing. They hold up well even after several washes. I never got a defective pair and I own six so far. Most are solid colored ones," writes one reviewer. "I haven’t gotten random holes in them. They even withstood my kittens digging their nails into them. Which for me is the ultimate test LOL. Seriously though, they’re inexpensive, fit great (I got the regular fit not plus) and have a huge selection of colors and prints to choose from. For reference I have thick legs and thighs and usually wear M or L (depending on manufacturers) leggings.”
Viv Collection Signature Leggings, $, available at Amazon
Legit leather leggings do not come cheap, but those who are devoted to the style and willing to fork over the cash seem like very happy campers to us. “I love the fit and feel of these leggings. I too, hesitated on getting them, thinking they were too pricey, but as I was trying them on I fell in love with them! They are super soft and comfortable," another reviewer added. “These pants are perfect. They sit high enough on the hips and are a snug fit, but not too tight. The leather is good quality. I wasn't sure about the zipper in the front based on another review, but I don't have a problem with mine and they zip up great and stay put until I unzip them”
Alice + Olivia Front Zip Leather Leggings, $, available at Saks Fifth Avenue
Good American: The Versatile Ribbed Legging
When it comes to investment leggings versatility is key, and this textured woven option is chic enough to lounge in and supportive enough to work out in.
The hype: 4.9 out of 5 stars, 21 reviews on GoodAmerican.com
What they’re saying: “I have only bought one brand of leggings my entire life and never thought I’d branch out. But I tried these ribbed ones and I’m hooked , already bought a second pair! The band doesn’t slide, they hug you in the perfect places, and they are amazing for lounging or intense workouts. Definitely going to purchase in other colors!” — Juliana B., GoodAmerican.com reviewer
Good American Active Essential Ribbed Legging, $, available at Good American
Vuori
The Compression Legging
The Hype: 4.7 out of 5 stars and 46 reviews on Vuori.com
These breathable but supportive leggings are made with extra elasticity and compression technology to help with muscle fatigue and blood circulation. "These leggings are mostly cotton (which allows skin to breathe) and the 12% spandex is just the right amount for stretchability (comfort when moving). I’ve paid much more for similar products which were completely see-through. These are not at all that way. Also waistband doesn’t roll down," writes one reviewer. "I was so afraid that my favorite leggings were discontinued...then I realized the name changed but the leggings were the same," another reviewer shares. "I literally started living in these when I started working from home!! They fit great, nice and snug. They are thick and not see-through and I love the high waist!"
Avira Vibe Cotton Control Leggings, $, available at DSW
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