The Comeback of Ruched Ankle Leggings in 2022-2023 | Athleisure Style

The Comeback of Ruched Leggings

Leggings have become a wardrobe staple for many over the past decade. From basic black leggings to printed and patterned options, there are endless styles to choose from. One legging trend that has slowly made a comeback in recent years is the ruched ankle legging.

What are Ruched Leggings?

Ruched leggings are leggings that have a gathered, ruching effect down the ankle. This ruching folds the fabric of the leggings in toward the leg, creating a cinched look at the ankle opening.

This style was quite popular in the early 2000s but faded as other legging trends took center stage. Now, ruched ankle leggings are gaining popularity once again in athleisure and casual wear.

The History of Ruched Leggings

Ruched detailing has long been a popular design element for all types of clothing. In legwear, ruched stockings and socks were common in Victorian-era fashion. Ruched leggings first appeared in dancewear in the 1980s.

By the 90s and 2000s, ruched leggings broke through to mainstream fashion. They were often worn for working out or casual everyday wear. The ruching accentuated the ankle and looked flattering with shoes.

Why Rouched Leggings are Trending Again

After falling out of fashion in the early 2010s, ruched leggings started regaining popularity around 2015. So what has led to the revival of this retro legwear?

One reason is the resurgence of Y2K fashion. Trends from the 90s and 2000s have become wildly popular with Gen Z. Crop tops, baggy jeans, platform shoes, and butterfly hair clips are just some examples. Ruched leggings fit nicely into this nostalgia for 2000s style.

The athleisure trend has also fueled the ruched leggings comeback. Activewear inspired casual clothing has dominated fashion for nearly a decade now. Ruched leggings seamlessly blend comfort and style for the athleisure aesthetic.

Beyond these fashion industry trends, ruched leggings are flattering on many body types. The ruching slims the ankles and lower legs, providing a tapered effect. The cinched fabric also enhances curves and contours.

How to Style Ruched Leggings

One of the best qualities of ruched leggings is their versatility. Here are a few ideas for stylish outfits with ruched leggings:

• Pair with an oversized graphic tee or sweatshirt and white sneakers for a sporty look.
• Layer under a mini skirt with a crop top and booties for a night out.
• Mix patterns and textures by wearing ruched leggings with an off-the-shoulder sweater and ankle boots.
• For chillier weather, don a teddy coat, beanie and ruched leggings with a turtleneck.
• Go monochromatic with matching ruched leggings and sports bra.

You can dress ruched leggings up or down effortlessly. They work for the gym, running errands, lounging at home, or drinks with friends. The options are truly endless.

Where to Find Ruched Leggings

Mainstream retailers like Gap, Old Navy, and Target carry affordable ruched leggings every season. However, for unique styles and prints, check out these brands:

Outdoor Voices

This trendy activewear brand offers ruched leggings in a variety of colors and patterns. They release limited edition seasonal prints like polka dots, camo, and swirls that always sell out fast.

Fabletics

Fabletics co-founder Kate Hudson often sports the brand's ruched leggings which come in solids and eye-catching prints. The Lifestyle collection has low, mid, and high rise options to suit every body type.

Girlfriend Collective

Eco-friendly Girlfriend Collective uses recycled plastic bottles to craft its compressive ruched leggings. The smoothing fabric provides contouring support.

Lululemon

Lululemon's Align leggings are made of ultra-soft Nulu fabric that molds to your shape. While most Align leggings lack ankle ruching, limited colors often get released with this flattering detail.

Alo Yoga

Alo Yoga is ground zero for stylish yoga wear. Their popular Goddess Ribbed Leggings nip in at the ankle with subtle ruched elastic. The fabric stretches with you while keeping its shape.

Get the Ruched Leggings Look On a Budget

Department stores like TJ Maxx, Marshall's, and Ross are treasure troves for marked down leggings. With some digging you can likely uncover ruched leggings for under $15.

Thrift and consignment shops are another option for scoring secondhand ruched leggings. Stores like Goodwill, Salvation Army, Crossroads, Plato's Closet, and more carry a rotating selection of activewear.

You can also find gently used ruched leggings online:

• Mercari - Buy and sell clothing with users nationwide.
• Poshmark - Bid on pre-owned items auction style.
• eBay - Search for new and used ruched leggings at discount prices.
• Facebook Marketplace - Buy from locals in your neighborhood.

With the comeback of Y2K style trends, ruched leggings are having another breakthrough moment. The flattering ruching flatters all figures while still being comfortable for workouts and everyday wear. So revisit this retro look with modern colorful twists and prints.

FAQs

Why are ruched leggings becoming popular again?

Ruched leggings are regaining popularity due to the resurgence of 1990s and 2000s fashion trends. The athleisure trend has also made activewear like leggings mainstream clothing choices. Beyond these industry trends, ruched leggings are flattering for their curve-hugging ruching at the ankles.

Can you wear ruched leggings casually or just for working out?

The best quality of ruched leggings is their versatility - you can absolutely wear them for casual everyday wear. Style them with oversized sweaters, tanks, graphic tees and more. Ruched leggings also work great for workouts and athleisure looks.

What types of shoes work best with ruched leggings?

Sneakers, booties and ankle boots pair nicely with ruched leggings to show off the cinched ankle details. Flat sandals or loafers also complement the tapered leg shape.

Where are the best places to buy affordable ruched leggings?

Department stores like TJ Maxx, Marshall's and Ross sell discounted leggings styles. Thrift stores like Goodwill and Salvation Army can have secondhand finds. Check Mercari, Poshmark and more for pre-owned ruched leggings.