In November and December, I am all about dressing winter cute. You know — thoughtful layers, real pants.
But come January and February, all I want is yoga pants.
I’ve decided not to fight this.
And apparently I’m not alone.
After Monday’s uniform post, a bunch of you said yoga pants were in your regular uniform lineup.
We get each other, don’t we?
So, Monday’s uniform was the fancy one — this one is all about comfort and ease. And I’ll be honest, this is the uniform that I reach for about 60% of the time.
Yoga pants + long top + jean jacket + slip on shoes.
It’s not a fancy outfit, but its comfortable and put-together enough for daytime stuff.
Do you ever wear yoga pants as real pants? How do you make it work?
Also I’m curious, have you ever dressed up yoga pants — like really dressed them up?
xo
Jacket: Madewell (old) / similar
Top: Forever21 (old) / similar or similar
Bottoms: YogaSmoga (almost sold out) / similar
Shoes: Dolce Vita (old) / similar
Bag: ONA
I used to do that more often, but when you work in an office it can be tricky to pull off… although I’m not above trying! I honestly feel like you if throw any jacket (especially a blazer) over an outfit, then you instantly look refined.
That’s what I do! Now to try and sneak yoga pants into the office…
By the way, I absolutely love the new look of your blog and your home looks lovely! I wish I had that natural light!
xo, Caitlyn
http://www.catonthemoon.xyz/blog/you-need-this-romper-now
Ponte pants and button downs are mine because I work in an office. But the effect is essentially the same.
Amen – wearing that in the office today! Now if I could just find some decent, comfy, easy-to-walk-in-but-still-look-“workish” real shoes…any suggestions there would be awesome
This is scary close to the outfit I wore to class today. A striped tunic + charcoal sweatshirt + denim jacket+black leggings+black flats. So comfy!
I found some comfy yoga-style leggings a while back that had back pockets and a zip fly. These weren’t “jeggings”, mind you – you could DEFINITELY could do yoga in these. They basically looked like black skinny jeans, so I’d actually wear them to work occasionally with a button-down shirt, and nobody was the wiser. Soooo comfy – and was crushed when they wore out and I couldn’t find a replacement :(
I love this!!!! so glad your back…i love your blog so much!!!!!
What about the yoga dress pants I’ve been seeing? Do they look good? Can you actually wear them to work? My weight fluctuates and I’m always either pulling up my pants or hanging over them. Yoga dress pants sounds like a dream!
Caroline,
Is so good to see you are back!:) About the yoga pants, I read a great post by Erin (Ode to yoga pants) :
http://designformankind.com/2016/02/ode-to-pants/
Thanks for linking that great post! What a great sense of humor she has, and a practical outlook, too!
I wear yoga pants dressed up almost daily…or some ponte knit legging which is basically the same thing. I prefer to wear them with a boot and long tank, layering a chunky cardigan over top. Sometimes I wear them w flats and a tunic or oversized chambray button down. I rarely wear blazers but I dress up w chunky necklaces or bold pendants and or a scarf.
I really love your outfit – and the best thing is I have similar pieces in my closet :)
xx from Bavaria/Germany, Rena
http://www.dressedwithsoul.com
Love the “uniform” idea! I will say I have a pair of “dress” yoga pants (Athleta Classic Ponte pants) that are stretchy yet have a zipper and pockets so they look like pants. I have definitely worn them with heels and a dressy top for functions when I didn’t feel like wearing skinny pants.
Yoga pants ARE NOT pants!! They are tights, basically thick panty hose with out feet. I understand that women want comfort but there are ‘pants’ that can be stretchy like ‘yoga pants’ but that don’t look like you are out in public in pantyhose! This is not a look that flatter MOST women of any age.
I agree! Wear a dress or a tunic with those feet-less tights please! Ewwww! Not attractive at all. And never at work!! And I wear things like that at home, and I am not against comfort!
I agree with M and Ruth. I love leggings for pilates and the occasional errand running with at least a long coat. And trust me, I wish I could wear leggings 5x more than I do. But this is not appropriate for work at all! Or everyday! I love your blog and overall aesthetic. But your uniform posts are really hard to translate to a 9-5 job. I don’t find the uniform concept very helpful. So you’ve covered your favorite combo of highwasted jeans with a tucked in fitted tee. Now you’ve shared a winter leggings look for January and February. So what’s next? 20 versions of the highwasted jeans with different colored tops and shades of blue jeans? I’m curious on how this will keep up.
not trying to be argumentative, but I felt that your post was very abrasive for such a positive blog. caroline has always been very open that her looks aren’t really “9-5” inspired because she doesn’t work a typical “9-5” job, please keep that in mind!
The idea with the uniform is that you have a common theme/silhouette/outfit that is your go to clothing and this reduces the effort involved each morning when getting dressed. So for a 9-5 office type job your uniform could be a blouse or shirt plus a skirt or pants. Men wear suits which is an office appropriate uniform so there’s no reason we couldn’t too. There’s a few other websites that have similar ideas which may give you more of an insight. The Colette patterns wardrobe architect series is really good, as is the Into mind workbook. Hope this helps
Agree with Laura on the uniform. Picking one in fact can give more variety, not less. For example, I decided a long time ago to abandon skirts, dresses and heels, and stick to a uniform of flat shoes, pants (or jeans), top + blazer (or pullover + coat). Now, instead of a wardrobe where I’d be limited to wearing particular shoes with particular skirts or pants (because of the hem length), just about everything is interchangeable. And you get can masses of variety by swapping colours, fabrics, styles. Silk palazzo pants are very different to light wash jeans… I’m really interested to see how Caroline develops her uniforms!
I’ve talked to many women about this topic and I disagree with you wholeheartedly. For myself, and many of the women I know, wearing yoga pants or leggings isn’t about what is “flattering” it’s about what is comfortable on their bodies and in their minds. Workplaces have different dress codes and I’ve seen these things done well (and admittedly, poorly) in both work and non-work settings, but the fact remains what someone else puts on their body isn’t really any of my business.
Absolutely agree. For work outside the home it has to be a looser fitting, body skimming pant but I certainly love it when I find them with a fitted elastic waist. None of those gathered waists but smooth and slightly stretchy so I can avoid the lump at the front which is the zip and button.
I love having a ‘uniform’ of sorts for work. It takes one decision out of my day and makes for a quick getaway in the morning.
I was one of those people in the last post who has come to see yoga pants as part of my uniform. Which is actually a big deal for me, someone who has not worn trousers in 6 years!! They are my gateway pant. One day soon I may well rock a pair of skinny jeans. But until that day comes I will stick to my dresses and yoga pants :)
I style them very similarly to you. Mine however are crazy colourful DharmaBum yoga pants from Australia. I then wear a long tshirt over them and a jumper, which I can only describe as a fleecey/hillwalking type jumper. Which is in a hue to compliment or pull out one of the colours from the yoga pants. I then wear my nikes or little ankle boots. Love the new photo styles.
Thanks for bringing unfancy back! Like others I discovered the blog shortly before your sign off and was sad to see you go. I’m also loving slow fashion, so am excited and interested to see where you go with it. Random question: where are those lovely copper hangers from? I have ab open closet and clean, attractive hangers are important :)
Yoga pants no, but definitely like some thick leggings. I love them super dressed up for the kind of night that I think “if I were a club going person I would wear this to the club” but really I’m just having dinner with my girls. I also wear them with a big old man sweater or under dresses for super cold days. Love this look, can I say again how glad I am you’re back!
Kate
Kateintheclassroom.com
I have this struggle between wanting to wear yoga pants and feeling obligated to wear real pants all the time. The best way I find to dress up yoga pants is with knee high boots and a tunic top.
I remember lululemon did a challenge with a staff member to wear wunder under crops everyday for a month. It was interesting to see how she styled them. http://blog.lululemon.com/wunder-under-challenge/
Love that you’re ba-ack! Ahhh, comfy yoga pants. Here in the west part of Canada lately I’ve noticed this trend too except with high leather hunter boots or chunky heels. And leather jackets. It jumped at me. Bulky Scarves are pretty much passé and it’s all about layering, always with a long tee. Think simple comfort. But! Am yearning for colour in our lives again with soft pastels, mostly pinks. Wondering where the dreams for Spring take you? And look for all your inspiring posts.
Yoga pants have become a staple in my wardrobe. I work for myself so my boss doesn’t mind ;) I have fibromyalgia so comfort is key but I still want to look cute. When I wear them out a pick a black pair. My favorite way to style them is with a black and white sweater with a plaid scarf and motorcycle jacket. On my feet are usually either slouchy motorcycle boots or a pair of cute tennys.
Also? I’m so happy you’re back. You’ve been missed. Hugs to your momma.
Suzan
Please no yoga pants outside of exercise class unless you’re wearing a top that covers your rear.
I dress the same but instead of slip on, I wear high heels boots and a big scarf. Chic and dressed up! :-)
Happy to see you back.
Not so much anymore, but when I was pregnant I lived in yoga pants. That includes at work! With a long cardigan and flats, they pretty much look like boot cut trousers. Especially with a big ol’ preggo belly, ha!
So very glad to see you are back – that was a very (!) long wait.
Lol. Wow. Some serious feelings about yoga pants we have here!! Love this look Caroline! I haven’t been wearing yoga pants outside the house these days, but it’s really only due to the fact that I haven’t found the ones that ‘fit the bill’, ya know? I want a pair that have a lot more weight to them (warmth + opaque qualities) but also have lots of stretch so that they don’t stretch out — AND that don’t break the bank… is this too much to ask? ;) Also, loving the new lifestyle-style shots. *fistbump*
Maybe you’ve already tried these and they didn’t cut it– but I like Old Navy’s yoga pants for the reasons you described. I’m not even a big Old Navy shopper– but they’re thick enough for Michigan winters and 100% opaque. Stretchy enough for me. The ones I have are matte/soft and not that shiny compression material– plus they’ve held up well over the last 2.5-3 years I’ve had them… granted I haven’t bought a new pair recently… hopefully they haven’t changed the design!
*let me preface this with — I promise I’m not yelling at you, but even thought my caps lock is indeed turned off this is still typing in all caps…super weird*
I searched forever for yoga pants that were thicker but still stretchy without breaking the bank. the ones I found were fabletics (salara style I believe). Before you go and look at the price, yes, it says they’re like $65 (and no that’s not my idea of affordable) but if you opt into their vip program it’s only $39 a pair. and as long as you opt out at the beginning of each month being vip doesn’t cost you anything. I just set a reminder in my phone to opt out at the beginning of every month and then I still get my vip discount on everything else. I practice and teach yoga classes, as well as wear them when my husband and I are traveling and they’ve held up great! Whatever you choose, good luck finding that perfect pair!
Have you tried Zella leggings? They’re not bad when you buy them during the Nordstrom sale. I splurged on them last fall and they’re the best I’ve owned by far. Opaque, warm, and reversible (one side is matte and one is slightly shimmery). The best part is they don’t get stretched out knees or get saggy by the end of the day.
I agree! I got mine during the half yearly sale and love them as much if not more than some other more expensive brands. Also while I’m writing can we all just agree to be more kind online. caroline is entitled to her opinion and that’s why you are following along to read her opinion right? You don’t have to agree but when did writing in all caps and being rude to the author and others become a thing? Swap yoga ahem pants for anything that you would wear and move on.
I’m so glad you’re back! Yoga pants have been my go-to pants lately, too.
I wear yoga pants/leggings at home only as I find them to be inappropriate for outside wear. But this mostly refers to yoga pants like Victoria Secret’s. However PONTE PANTS are a completely different story. I have J. Crew ponte pants and a pair from BCBGMaxazria both are thick as pants but comfy as leggings and look appropriate. I like to wear them with knee-high boots and long sweaters.
I like this one much better than yesterday’s outfit. Very cute!
Definitely cover your rear when out of gym! Unless you’re 15 and clueless. A long top, sweater, short dress or a mini skirt – I have several, including one down from Skhoop( I live in Maine, down is a must) and knitted by me A-line. A great way to cover all those cold sensitive areas and look very stylish and pulled together. Here’s how to make one: buy a good wool sweater at a local good will. Cut it off under the arms and sew on a self-binding elastic, like this one http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00KC0L8DG?psc=1&redirect=true&ref_=oh_aui_detailpage_o09_s00.
You’re in for a number of compliments!
I live in black stretchy pants from November to March. I find GapFit a good fit :) price vs quality.
I’m actually sitting at my desk in yoga pants as I type this! Wearing them with a long-ish white button up, oversize cardigan, booties, and a bold (for me) necklace. It’s supposed to rain today so I couldn’t even with pants…
Love your winter uniforms, Caroline! I appreciate your honest approach :) The blog looks great!
I love love this outfit! I have similar pieces but never thought of wearing them in that way! I usually just wearing yoga pants around the house but I want to start styling for outside-the-house wear. So this post really inspired me! :) Thanks, Caroline!
Really, what’s the difference between yoga pants and a decent pair of leggings? Lately I’ve been wearing real pants even for working at home o.O Otherwise I just can’t get into the productive groove…
Obviously, your fashion style translates to home decor. Can we have a home tour? :)
ox
ps. So glad to see you back! I stumble upon your blog just before your took a break! I was heartbroken. lol.
I can get away with any type of legging with a longer dressier shirt/dress/tunic at work and no one is the wiser :) It is all how you accessorize and dress something up <3 No matter how many limits I push with my yoga pants, I don't think I am creative enough to make the 'really' dressy look happen with them :)
I love to wear my thickest lululemon yoga pants with an oversize white button down and high heeled booties. My coworkers call it my “NYC gallery owner look”, which as a designer in SF is acceptably office appropriate. The best part is then I only have to change my top before yoga class after work!
I think it might be generational: I never wear leggings (they remind me of the eighties midschooler me) but my 3 year old daughter won’t wear anything else (good call-comfort!) I do enjoy dressing up my fancy wool joggers though…
So glad your back! I really missed all your posts and your blog helps me to simplify my life and not get so caught up in fashion and stuff. So thank you! Also I love your home, it really reflects you and your style, i like how simple, clean, yet has personality. I hope you post more pics soon.
Also, I know you’ve had that ONA bag for a while and i have been tempted to buy it but it looks bulky, has anyone tried this bag and is it a good everyday bag? Thanks!
Lovely to have you back Caroline and I LOVE this look + the photos are fantastic! As for dressing up yoga pants? Yup all the time, I usually add my motto jacket, raw silk shift and a pair of stilettos. Love it for a night out with my hubby! xo
I have a wonderful black crushed velvet pair of bootcut yoga pants that get dressed up more than down – and never to the gym! (I got them as hand-me-downs from my sister, who thought they were pajamas.) I wear them to the office with a longish chiffon blouse and pointy-toed kitten heels, but more often for nights out, like you, with stilettos and a satin sleeveless blouse, and tux jacket. Great for dancing!
I see a huge amount of the Han Solo look with yoga pants/leggings: tall boots, long shirt, vest for cool temps; but that doesn’t suit my inverted triangle figure.
There was a discussion on Feather Factor a couple of weeks ago about wearing “active-wear” for daily wear. I left a similar comment there:
I do regret that people don’t dress as well in the U.S. as they did in the 1950’s and before, though I wouldn’t want to go back to girdles & gloves & all that hairspray they wore back then… Having said that, as long as people have good personal hygiene, and wear clean & well-fitting clothes, and dress fairly appropriately for events (which can be subjective especially these days whether we like it or not), unless you know a person and their daily calendar/schedule extremely well judging people by what they wear is a dangerous and slippery slope. Plus maybe there really are a whole lot of people who use gyms these days and have packed their schedule so full that they don’t have time to change clothes much.
It’s interesting that in France–although you occasionally now see people in gym-wear, something that up until a very few years ago you never used to see–people still think that active lives and healthy bodies do not require special clothes and gym memberships, but instead walking and hiking in regular street clothes, taking the stairs & not elevators, gardening, swimming, and other such centuries-old activities are more than adequate to be one of the healthiest and trimmest countries in the world.
Most of us here reading your blog, Caroline, do care about presenting themselves well for the most part I imagine, but not everyone has had the advantage of being encouraged to consider what they wear and how they present themselves. Leading by cheerful example is always preferable to looking down on others whose circumstances we may know nothing about. Why would anyone in sloppy sweats or gym-wear or baggy jeans and tees want to emulate well-groomed judgmental snotty people? But consider that if badly-clothed & groomed people have the occasion to interact with cheerful kind nonjudgmental well-groomed people, they may be more likely to think to themselves something like, “That appropriately-dressed person seems to be a person whom I could like and admire and like to emulate.”
People in the U.S. who are really, really, top-out-of-sight, rather old-money rich, dress the way they want yet dress appropriately for events, are self-confident and kind and nonjudgmental. People who aren’t too far away from their sometimes-insecure-middleclass-roots tend to make assumptions and judge people for what they wear, or latch on to some media-driven hype of the day such as what to think about what other people wear (such as wearing athletic-wear as street-wear).
When out & about or at lunch or dinner, it’s always most pleasant to be around or sit next to cheerful kind people no matter what they wear, and if they know enough about dressing well and are able to dress appropriately for the situation then all the much more better. Caroline, you are a lovely and interesting young woman with a beautiful family, and you care to dress & present yourself well. Should you feel the need to do so–and I hope that you don’t–defending your clothing choices seems superfluous, because from the photos I’ve seen here of you, I know I would be pleased to sit at a table near you in any venue no matter what you choose to wear.
I just had to reply because it is obvious (I think!) you have read Paul Fussell’s “Class” – one of my favorites. :)
I recently wore some Athleta yoga crops with over-the-knee suede boots, a cream colored tunic sweater, a statement necklace and a wool sweater coat to a party. I can do virtually anything in yoga pants!
I work in a casual office & ALMOST EVERYONE wears leggings/yoga pants except the men. (Our boss often wears shorts!)
We wear them with long tunic tops or sweaters/ponchos & boots, or longer blouses & booties in warmer weather, & the best part is that NOBODY CARES! I even wear them under a dress instead of tights.
I know I am lucky that we have such a casual dress code. One benefit is that whenever I “dress up” in traditional office wear, everyone notices & it’s nice to get compliments being so fancy!
Nope, only at home. I feel like a kid if I wear that outside the house or off the yogamat…
Wow this is heated argument! I partially agree with both sides. I wear yoga pants to class because frankly that’s when I’m usually tired and dont have anyone to impress in my giant lectures. Maximum comfort for class always. But my top must cover my crotch and most of my butt. I think the crotch look in yoga pants is so unsightly. I generally retire my leggings for the spring and summer months. In the winter it’s fine because my long coat covers it. Yoga pants are cute and comfortable with a big sweater as shown here by Caroline. But when I’m going out on a date with my man it’s back to jeans! But ultimately fashion has no rules it’s all about what you feel best in :) xoxo
So great your blog is back!
Since I live in a cold climate, I wear my leggings with knit dresses and boots. I agree with some of the other comments that yoga pants are feetless tights, so I think they should only be worn with very long tops. They could be dressed up with a long blouse or tunic and a blazer for a nice casual evenig look but will never really become office appropriate because they are not real pants.
Just curious. I’m from Australia and wondering if what you call yoga pants are what we call leggings. Yoga pants to me are more a lightweight track pant. I noticed someone commented that they had black ponte pants, I also have a pair and they’re my ‘dressy leggings’
I tried, I really REALLY tried to wear yoga pants as a legitimate going out outfit in Vegas. I have hot pink Splits 59 yoga pants with an open back Lululemon white top and a black fancy sports bra. But at the end of the day, I looked like I was going to do yoga. In stilettos. So, I swapped out the pants for a lime green mini skirt. But I really wanted to! In the real world, I just throw on some high cable knit socks over my leggings and pair them with high boots and it’s a solid outfit. I’ll change out the cable knit socks for leg warmers every now and then. It helps make crop yoga pants more versatile :)
I wear those same style pants (although mine are actually leggings) to yoga at my workplace and then just bring a dress to throw over the top when I have to actually start, y’know, working. My workplace is a tad too conservative to just use a long sweater + leggings, but the dress/yoga pants combo works and makes working out super simple.
Interesting. I would not call these yoga pants at all, but leggings. Yoga pants to me are always flared, and I wear them all the time at home but not in public. I do wear leggings in public, but always with a top that covers my bum (both front and back, heh).
I have never seen leggings referred to as yoga pants before, regardless of how athletic the material might be.
I bought these pants at American Eagle because they look like a dress pant/skinny jean but are really a legging! They have real pockets in the back and they are my favorite pant! If I try to pull off real leggings to work I usually wear a really long shirt or cardigan to cover my butt…. and tall boots! I feel like the less they can see that its a legging the better! ha. Some days a girl just needs to wear leggings!!
https://www.ae.com/web/browse/product_details.jsp?productId=0327_2668_001&catId=cat5180042
2016 is the year I start adopting minimalism. I came upon minimalism because I read and loved the Marie Kondo book. Then I came across this idea of capsule wardrobe and minimalism. I haven’t taken the plunge and started capsule wardrobe yet (mainly because I am still warming up to the concept). However, when I came across your blog I was so ecstatic because the instructions and resources were great. That said, I wish there were more capsule wardrobe references /advice/ models/ guidance for people who live in places stat where the temperate can change weekly (specifically, I live in NY where its freezing and snowing one day and the next day its sunny and hot) and also work full-time but like to partake in happy hours after work or weekend social nightlife. The capsule wardrobe-ers I have found are mostly self-employed or live in moderate consistent climates. If anyone has any bloggers/youtubers/instagrammers/etc. that they recommend that would be great.
I live in Wisconsin so I know exactly what you mean. Most of the capsule wardrobes I see on Pinterest and the like are clearly for a moderate climates. For example, when the temps are in the negative digits, I’m not using a short sleeve t-shirt as a layering base. Or if I am, there are four other layers on top of it and that’s just way too much work. :-)
I’m fairly new to the capsule/minimalist practice but what I’ve done is adopt a 21 piece (or less, right now I think I’m closer to 12) wardrobe and adjust it each month or two. The traditional 3 month capsule just doesn’t work with Wisconsin weather. For example, this year I had a different capsule for December than for January and February. Most of the pieces were the same but because of the warm winter I didn’t need my heaviest clothes until January. My next capsule will be for March and April depending how the weather turns out. It’s possible I’ll end up doing one for March and another for April and May. I live in Milwaukee, very close to Lake Michigan, and it stays cold for a long time in the spring. So I’m often wearing sweaters in April and May (which, yes, does make me bitter but it is what it is).
I’ve also adopted the practice of separating my daily clothes from other categories. Most capsules I’ve seen don’t count Workout and layering pieces like long underwear but I break mine down further. I’m a musician and a Stay at home mom so my life is very compartmentalized. What I wear to rehearsal is part of my daily capsule but concert black for performances is separate. Those 12-15 items get worn year round and only for work so I don’t count them in my capsule. I also have a few dressier pieces that get worn a few times a year for specific work or personal events and I don’t bother to count those either. This is partly how I’m able to keep such a small capsule.
Wow, that got long. Sorry for the essay. ;-)
I LOVE the new Layout!! I don’t have any yoga pants but I am looking or some and how to make them office-ready.
Super post!
Best,
Cigdem from kissthemuse.com
When people say yoga pants, I get sort of confused because some people call leggings ‘yoga pants’ – but real yogis know it is not advisable to wear trendy VS foldover ‘yoga pants’ into a real yoga class.
However, I have dressed up leggings to a fine dining establishment. I think if it’s thick enough, no one knows the difference. I mixed a long v-neck non-cotton ‘fancy’ top with heels. As long as you have makeup and hair done, no one bats an eye.
But real Lululemon type pants? PHEW. I don’t even know how you can make that dressy. A lot are so shiny and stretchy, that it kind of gives it away. The dressiest I’ve worn them is with a gloriously fluffy long sweater and boots. Fancy enough for date night!
Sincerely, Tania
I think it totally depends on the workplace! I would imagine that if you worked in a more creative or casual field, they could be fine. However, for most 9-5 workplaces, yoga pants are a no go for the office IF you want to be taken seriously! I don’t necessarily like this fact, but I think it’s true. My workplace has a ‘business casual’ dress code (jeans are ok on Fridays only). I could probably ‘get away’ with wearing yoga pants and a long top to the office, but like it or not, there are quite a few people who simply wouldn’t take me seriously if I did so. It looks too casual, and like you don’t understand the ‘unwritten rules’ of being a professional. That’s not the vibe I want to give off at work! I do appreciate a good yoga pant/tunic combo for the weekend, though :)
your outfit is very similar to my absolute fav weekend go-to! i love love leggings with a cute tee or long top (with a chunky sweater or scarf for those really cold days) paired with boots, booties or black vans slip-ons. love the denim jacket, i have never tried to wear a denim jacket myself! i think maybe girls wearing leggings may be a texas thing? or at least a southern thing?? i am a 28 year old woman and i cannot think of a single girlfriend who does not wear leggings out and about, in all situations, on the regular.
i believe the key to wearing leggings as pants is to make sure you are wearing quality leggings. loft, Nordstrom, and many other stores sell thicker versions that, for lack of better words, hold it all together! these types of leggings create a smoother silhouette and can look dressy when paired with the right tops and shoes. keep on rocking the leggings girl!!
Wow. Some people are getting a little butt hurt about these yoga pants. Everyone is entitled to wear what they like, how they like & where they like. Love the outfit, the new blog & new approach.
Now forget the pants. I need a house tour!
You’ve got another vote for a house tour from me!
I’m loving the new journey of seeing how the capsule has changed from a planned thing to almost an inherent trait at this point. Like it’s become your habit, your nature. I was starting to think about how that can spill over into various areas of our lives. For instance, for me, finding my fashion style has also helped me define my home/decor style. I’ve noticed how after working through simplifying and specifying my wardrobe, I morphed into changing things in my home – purging, being more purposeful in what new chachki I bring into it, or not.
And so I wondered if that might be similar for you too? And if you might be willing to share more of that with us too? The glimpses I see of your new home are so delightful. Earthy, homey, with refined style. I wondered if this new journey might expand more into some bits about your design sense in your home, how you manage your home, etc…
…or at least just a few more photos! ;)
love this outfit and a huge ditto to a house tour! i’m busting to see what you’ve done to your sweet fixer
Just wanted to add that I use the term legging and yoga pant interchangeably… this may also be a texas girl thing!
This is such a great look! My uniform these days consists of skinny jeans that are super stretchy and comfortable combined with a chunky sweater and pointy toe flats. I really want to get some cool slip-ons like yours! :)
-Lauren
http://www.musingsofaflowerchild.com/
First, Caroline, you are fantastic, and everything you do oozes authenticity and cool-very tricky to do!
Let us all take a moment and recite together Amy Poehler’s mantra, “Good for her! Not for me.”
I feel the frump when I attempt yoga pants-as-pants, feel being the key word. But, there’s no need to justify my preference by attacking someone else’s.
I have dear, stylish, truly lovely friends who look very put together and, dare I say, classy in yoga pant-based ensembles. Here in SoCal, it’s a pretty mainstream uniform (Starbucks? Yaaas! Yoga pants? Yaaas!). Although, I would generally recommend care in choosing the opacity of your pants…just sayin’, black + spandex can be a little bit tricky in bright sunlight…
i love joe fresh and recently got 2 pair.. 1 is black/gray houndstooth and the other is a graphic print, i wear a suit to the hotel but these are great as soon as i get home…on sale too, clearance! with turtleneck and cacoon sweater….moto boots…in NYC so much colder!
Still…. Just so glad your back!!!!! I love the spanx leggings. The good ones are EXPENSIVE but so worth it! Come up high to hold you in, wash beautifully and don’t fade, are thick. About $98 but worth every penny. I’ve worn mine with a tunic and poncho to work all winter.
Love the uniform concept whatever that might be for each person. Once you figure out a look that works for you, you don’t have to make a clothing decision every time.
Glad you are back!
I personally don’t wear leggings as I don’t think I have the legs for them. Too skinny with knobbly knees!!! But Caroline looks great in them and actually makes them look very chic!!! This has inspired me to try them again. Maybe I’m not styling them correctly? I do wear Ponte type pull on trousers in a bootcut or flare for work with blouses that cover my modesty. I think they work well and are so comfy. I work in an office and no one has ever noticed that they are not tailored trousers!!!
YES! I legitimately wear this same outfit minus the jean jacket. Casual black slip-ons have changed my life.
Okay, so can someone tell me the difference between leggings and yoga pants? I’d love to wear tights as pants but I feels so weird like I’m not wearing pants at all, more like panty hose. Is there a difference in thickness of material? I know I sound like a grandma but I’d really love for someone to break it down for me. Thanks! :)
Welcome back, Caroline! I admire your outlook on capsules and life in general :). You keep it fun and authentic by not enforcing rigid rules on yourself.
As for yoga pants… I think shoes make a MUCH bigger difference the dressiness of an outfit. Imagine the difference in how a leggings outfit looks with wedges, stilettos or sneakers! I firmly believe that everyone’s outfit goals should be clean, comfortable, and confident, whatever that means to them. If you look like you feel good, it shouldn’t matter whether your pants have a zipper or not!
So glad that you are back!!!
The 2 uniforms are great. Thank you!
I absolutely LOVE yoga pants and really like how you are wearing them in this post.
Great stuff as always, Caroline!
Another great alternative to yoga pants are the J.Crew Pixie Pants. I have the high waisted ones and I wear them for work. They have a tailored seam that helps to slim the legs and you get that added comfort of a stretch pant. They also look more presentable, especially if you work in an office :)
I was going to suggest the same thing! I love my PIxies. So comfy and yet so tailored-looking. I wear them tucked into tall boots, as well as booties or sneaks.
So clearly one woman’s yoga pants is another woman’s leggings. LOL! I always considered yoga pants the ones with the wide leg flare at the bottom. I wore mine the last two weeks of pregnancy and the entire first postpartum month. Glorious!! Now my Pixies are my glorified publicly-acceptable comfy pants. I can wear them to work — my office has a casual dress code, but they can be easily dressed up.
Love your style and love your site, Caroline! Thanks for coming back to the blogosphere and making my Feedly a happier place!
Love all the layering and love that green plant in your room! It makes the stark white walls look great.
coffeeslag
COFFEESLAG Winter Coat OOTD
I don’t wear leggings much, but I have my eye on some TROUSER SWEATPANTS. Doesn’t that sound amazing? :D
http://www.thismomsgonnasnap.com
It really bugs me that this is supposed to be winter. I know it is Texan winter, living in a country with actual season, an outfit like that (especially without socks) wouldn’t work til april or may in many places.
I get that you write about what you know, but somehow labelling it ‘winter’ annoys me and frankly just isn’t helpful…so I guess it’s just not for me and I’m off to find a capsule blog which I can relate to better…
I used to not believe in leggings outside of dance or yoga class until I read this article (http://www.harpersbazaar.com/fashion/trends/a67/vera-wang-personal-style-0507/) with Vera Wang all about her personal style. They asked her what her favorite leggings were. Her answer- Danskin Supplex Leggings. They may be $40+ depending on where you get them- but you will thank Vera once you put them on. Bible.
So I say- with the right pair- leggings are pants. And under a tunic and tall boots, I’ve even worn them to work.
YOU ARE BAAAACK :)
I work in a casual office so I often wear black Athleta joggers but not so much yoga pants (it’s an industrial very male environment so I don’t want to be running around in something so fitted). I top my joggers with a slouch tank and a big scarf or sweater. Shoes are pointy toed loafers. For dressier situations, JCrew makes stretchy fitted ponte pants that feel like yoga pants but have a bit more structure (several other people have mentioned above as well). I wear a longer top (or at least long in the back) and a jacket over these.
I love leggings but not for office wear. I wear them all weekend though!
Can we talk about your cute cactus and snake plant in the photos? Love the pop of green in your beautiful serene home.
I don’t wear leggings except for working out and our office doesn’t allow them, even if I wanted to wear them. I don’t mind seeing them on other people with a tunic length top.
Love this look! I find that as long as you’re wearing nice yoga pants that aren’t pill-y it totally works, especially if your butt is covered. I have a pair from Kit and Ace that are technically more leggings that I wear constantly with sweaters and otk boots.
I wear yoga pants almost exclusively (if you don’t count skirts and dresses) and the way that I make it work is with a dressier top and usually some fashion jewelry. Not rocket science but it sure is dependable to make a cute, comfortable, and put together outfit.
I think you mean leggings? Also, if your leggings are similar to panty hose then you have some cheap leggings. One uniform of mine is leggings (I like madewell & Nike cotton ones in black or grey) under a cotton or jersey dress. I where this to work 30% of the time. I also have some Ponte pants from mother denim that are halfway legging halfway skinnies that look great with a long top. On the weekend I usually wear just a t shirt on top but don’t leave the house like that. Leggings are the best. I love how they hold me in and smooth everything out and how comfortable they are.
Yoga pants are pretty much the only non-slacks pants I own now and I wear them everyday. I like to wear the. With a top that’s long enough to cover my backside, or with a vneck and a long cardi. I’ve dressed them up with a pretty blouse + blazer + knee high heeled boots + some jewelry and.
Loving your new blog layout! So glad that Un-Fancy is back! :) I totally get the whole love for Yoga pants. It is summer here in Australia so I am mainly living in my maxi skirts :)
I don’t think I’ve ever left a comment before, but I love your blog! And I love this outfit — it’s pretty close to what I wear most days. Leggings, a top with a rounded hem that hits at the hip, and ankle boots are perfect. The shirt doesn’t need to cover my butt — I wouldn’t do that in skinny jeans, so why do it in leggings?
My job isn’t a corporate 9-5 and it’s so great to read a fashion blog that fits my lifestyle. Truly can’t understand some of the comments that complain this isn’t office appropriate — I’m sure there are other blogs out there for office wear.
I would love to see more outfits using leggings like these as a base! Please keep it up!
I don’t need to find a blog for office wear. I’ve been able to use the structure and color scheme of caroline’s capsules to create my own capsules that fit my personal style.
Sooooo glad you are back. I’m glad you are back writing after your amazing journey with your mum. Also glad she is feeling better!
I’ve been on a capsule experiment since November thanks to your blog (printed the workbook and everything!). What I found was that I only bought half of the things I listed and although I would have loved to afford more, I am OKAY with my selection. I have a uniform for sure and I never get bored of it. Weekends are mainly high waist skinny jeans and a comfy long sleeve top + chelsea boots or sneakers. Done. Never. Changes.
Then during the week, I have my work capsule. I find my uniform for work to be black pants, slouch top and my black blazer + brogues. Or an oversize dress + brogues or boots. Done.
I was just telling my brother how I haven’t shopped since December and I don’t feel I neeeed anything just now. It feels so good!
Looking forward to seeing your blog evolve!
Anne
I added an Eileen Fisher grey cashmere tunic and black OTK Stuart Weitzman boots for a semi polished, put together look. The boots and tunic, both classics for me, were purchased at Off Fifth on clearance.
I love this look! It’s so cozy, but cool. As a stay at home mom I do two in one outfits: yoga pants at home with a longer top and then jeans to change into when I leave the house. I’m still not comfortable leaving the house with yoga pants as real pants. Although that’s probably because I don’t look as cute as you do in them!
Karin | truncationblog.com
Love this laid back look!
Love,
http://www.thestyleventure.com
I absolutely love your style, and I’m so pleased you’re back :) xx
I never used to wear leggings at all and was all jeans all the time till I started working at a Kohl’s store. We can’t wear jeans to work and I hate the way I look in regular dress pants, but we CAN wear knit pants and leggings as long as our bum is covered. We sell a pair of Vera Wang ponte knit pants that have back pockets, and a zipper with a snap in front that after I finally bit the bullet and bought some I now don’t know how I lived without them. Thick enough and just lose enough that you aren’t showing your business to the world, but so comfy and work appropriate if you work in a business casual setting like myself. Personally I don’t understand that “yoga pants aren’t pants” argument. The word pants is right there in the name! Whatevs. Do you.
(yes, I work there. No, they aren’t paying me to say I like those pants. It’d be nice if they did though.)
Hello from the UK!
Gym-wear is all the rage here at the moment. I think anything that makes you look like you’ve been doing some exercise is a good look, even if you haven’t!
As for yoga pants, I love Sweaty Betty http://www.sweatybetty.com
Namaste.
Suede leggings. As comfy as yoga pants but fancy! With boots and a sweater for weekends, with leopard flats and a button down for work or heels and a cute top for the evening.
I may have missed a comment that will answer this but I want to find a yoga pant that is thick enough not to feel like tights. Any suggestions?
I’m so happy you’re back!!! I agree, I sometimes put on jeans and then I put yoga pants back on. I just wear leggings with a longer shirt and I have no regrets or qualms about it.
Ok, help me, I am confused, being a non-native English speaker, the difference between leggings and yoga pants is not clear to me. Can someone please share some enlightment on that matter?
I used to wear leggings in my super fancy office, pairing them with long blouse-like Tunics, a blazer and high heels or slippers. If I have to spend 9 hours behind a desk I want to feel comfortable. However I am not really into sweaters. They’re just not versatile enough fro my taste. I cut out almost all sweaters from my wardrobe and just wear them for exercise.
a belated i’m so happy that you’re back, caroline! I’ve really missed Reading Your blog. And for some reason i can’t seem to turn off caps Lock…i like to wear ponte leggings With longer tops, no one can tell it’s not a skinny jean.
Wow! Over 100 comments! Who knew we cared so much about yoga pants! LOL. Yesterday I was going to comment that I’m decidedly in the yoga-pants-only-for-exercise club. But today, for medical reasons, I had to wear a pair out and about. Well, now I see what all the fuss is about!! I think the keys here are fabric, fit, and style. My YPs are fairly heavy weight and not really clingy. And these are yoga pants, not leggins or compression tights. I styled them with regular shoes (not sneakers) and a tunic sweater. Honestly they looked like pants. Now I’m going to look into the ponte pants many commenters are suggesting. I might just become a believer!
GIRL I CAN WORK SOME YOGA PANTS! lOL I HAVE WORN THEM DRESSED UP WITH A NICE BLAZER, A FRILLY SHIRT THAT IS SLIGHTLY LONGER THAN THE BLAZER AND EITHER HEELED BOOTS OR PUMPS. I EITHER WEAR MY HEAR UP WITH DAINTY EARINGS OR CASUALLY DOWN. YOGA PANTS ARE THE BEST EVER!
Caroline, I think Kate Middleton liked your post because she was just spotted wearing leggings/ yoga pants while running errands and shopping in London. She had bought some items at lulu lemon!
Such a sweet outfit! Sometimes you just want it cozy and comfy – but your version looks still chic :) xx, Carmen – http://www.carmitive.com
This uniform is very similar to my own.
BUUUTTTTTTTT, can you do a post about your hair? Cut? Products? It looks amazing :)
I need a lot of variety and change in my outfits, so all my efforts in building a uniform were in vain. I don’t even wear a lot of jeans! I can’t even say if I wear skirts or pants more. I’m wearing quite some vintage silhouettes, though.
So it seems like a) minimalism and b) all the efforts to build a uniform were both in vain and not manageable for me. I’ll keep on trying…
your hair is so incredibly shiny and looks so healthy, I’m wondering what you’re doing! I had to get mine cut a few months ago, from about elbow length to a super short pixie, as I couldn’t manage to fix their fuzzy, frizzy and always bad appearance in over 10 years -_-
I think yoga pants work as real pants for some women….but it depends on body type.
I’m a plus-sized curvy woman. Skin-tight pants don’t work for me… I need a trouser leg to balance me out. So, I keep the yoga pants for exercise and hanging out at home.
YES!
I’ve already really “upgraded” my yoga pants’ outfit hahahaha
yoga pants + long top or sweater + fancy heels + leather jacket and a “statement necklace” how you like to call them. :)
Easy, but people would think you took hours thinking about it.
I just love so much you are back!!! yey!
I’m an executive and wear yoga pants in the winter nearly every day with tall boots. I like to be comfortable. My office is business casual…and I write the dress code, but I strongly feel that I look perfectly appropriate. Of course I wear tunics and sometimes even layer them. Also, my attorney wears leggings to court and in the office and completely pulls it off still looking professional. Keep in mind we are both thin and this look may not be for everyone.
~Elizabeth
I love this outfit! You make those yoga pants work! When I wear them I just try to cover my butt and make it look super cute!
Does anyone have advice for how to wear yoga pants and tall boots without fuzzing/pilling the pants? Even with two pairs of knee high socks, I destroy my yoga pants (around the calves) if I wear them with fryes. Maybe because I walk so much. Thanks!
…uhm… I feel only partially included in this yoga pants trend – I only wear them for the said rainy days, tucked in my knee high rain boots. Other than that, I’d much rather wear my wide leg pants & sneakers ^_^
However, if I were to dress up yoga pants (aka leggings), I would be definitely doing something on the ‘rock’ side!