Gypsy Leggings - The Boho Printed Leggings Trend

The Rise of Gypsy Leggings

Leggings have become a wardrobe staple for women across the globe. From yoga pants to jeggings, leggings are beloved for their versatility and comfort. In recent years, a new style of legging has emerged on the scene - the gypsy legging.

Gypsy leggings are characterized by their fun, bohemian inspired prints and patterns. Unlike basic black leggings, gypsy leggings make a statement. The term "gypsy" refers to the free-spirited, eclectic vibe of the leggings. Gypsy leggings come in a wide range of colors and prints, from paisleys to abstract floral designs. They can instantly liven up an outfit.

The Origins of Gypsy Leggings

Gypsy leggings first became popular in the 1970s, during the bohemian fashion trend. Inspired by the colorful attire worn by Romani gypsies, these leggings featured opulent prints and metallic details. Brands like Cherokee began producing gypsy leggings in an array of eye-catching designs.

During the aerobics craze of the 1980s, gypsy leggings went mainstream. Colorful printed leggings were worn for dance aerobics and jazzercise classes. Spandex gypsy leggings from brands like Marika catered to the trend. The fitness craze helped make gypsy leggings a fashion staple.

The 1990s and Y2K Gypsy Leggings

Gypsy leggings saw a resurgence in the 1990s and early 2000s. Psychedelic prints, metallic fabrics, and flared leg openings embodied the raver fashion of the 1990s. Leggings were often worn to festivals, concerts, and nightclubs. The trend carried over into the early 2000s, as boho chic took over. Popularized by it-girls like Sienna Miller, gypsy leggings were a Y2K party look.

From the 1970s through the early 2000s, gypsy leggings were made from stretch fabrics like nylon and spandex blends. The advent of athleisure inspired brands to create gypsy leggings using performance fabrics like Lycra. This evolution made the leggings even more comfortable and functional.

Why Women Love Gypsy Leggings

There are many reasons why gypsy leggings have maintained consistent popularity over the decades. Some of the factors that make them a closet staple include:

Endless Design Options

One of the best aspects of gypsy leggings is the vast array of prints and colors available. From vibrant florals to blacklight-reactive patterns, the design options are endless. Gypsy leggings allow you to make a bold fashion statement. You can find leggings with intricate mandalas, dreamcatchers, paisleys, tie dye, global inspired patterns, and more.

Comfort

Gypsy leggings are just as comfortable as basic leggings, thanks to the soft, stretchy fabrics they are constructed from. The elastic waistband also provides a stay-put fit that moves with you throughout the day. Whether you are running errands, working out, traveling, or dancing, gypsy leggings offer optimal flexibility and ease of movement.

Flattering Fit

Leggings have remained popular in part because they are so flattering. The form-fitting silhouette enhances your shape. Leggings add definition to the legs and rear while smoothing over any lumps, bumps, or problem areas. For curvy body types, leggings are far more complimentary than pants. Gypsy leggings allow you to enhance your figure while still being playful with patterns and prints.

Versatility

Gypsy leggings easily transition from day to night. Pair them with an oversized sweater and ankle boots for daytime wear. At night, amp up the glam factor with strappy heels and a sequin top. For yoga and working out, gypsy leggings are perfect paired with a sports bra or activewear top. You can dress gypsy leggings up or down effortlessly.

How to Style Gypsy Leggings

One of the best aspects of gypsy leggings is how many ways you can style them. Here are some tips for putting together great looks with your printed leggings:

Focus on Proportion

Because leggings are form-fitting on bottom, balance your look by wearing looser, flowy tops. Tunic length tops, oversized sweaters, kimonos and babydoll silhouettes all work well. Avoid pairing leggings with anything too tight or short on top. The goal is to balance out the body proportions.

Layer Jewelry

Stacking bracelets, layered necklaces, and hoop earrings complement a boho gypsy legging look. Add an arm full of bangles or a statement cuff to dress up printed leggings. Layering necklaces of varying lengths takes the outfit to the next level.

Finish With Footwear

Complete your gypsy legging look with fashionable footwear. Knee high boots or booties look chic in fall and winter. Espadrilles, sandals, and wedges work for spring and summer. Sneakers and flats are perfect for casual daytime wear. Heels dress gypsy leggings up for a night out.

Use Scarves and Belts

Scarves and belts lend a bohemian vibe to any gypsy legging outfit. Wrap a printed scarf around your neck or use it as a headband. Skinny belts cinch and define the waist. Distressed leather or woven belts work nicely.

Key Gypsy Legging Brands

Many brands now offer their own take on gypsy leggings. Here are some of the key players in the gypsy legging game:

Lazypants

Founded in 2014, Lazypants sells super soft modal blend leggings in vibrant colors and global inspired prints. Their tribal patterns and elephant prints are boho chic.

Vimmia

This LA based activewear brand uses sustainably sourced, quick-drying fabrics for their leggings. Vimmia has a bohemian vibe with leggings featuring mosaic, watercolor, and mandala designs.

Soul Flower

This eco-fashion brand sells organic cotton leggings dyed using low-impact methods. Their earth-inspired prints include elephant, feather, paisley, and mosaic designs.

Just Peachy Leggings

Based in Australia, Just Peachy lives up to its name with peachy rear enhancing leggings in marble, abstract patterns, watercolor prints, and galaxy inspired designs.

Get Your Gypsy On

Gypsy leggings are a fashion staple that refuses to go out of style. With endless styling possibilities, the boho printed legging trend is here to stay. Gypsy leggings allow you to express your free-spirited side, no matter where your day takes you. So get your gypsy on in leggings with bold patterns, vivid colors, and eclectic details.

FAQs

What fabrics are gypsy leggings made from?

Gypsy leggings are typically made from stretchy fabrics like nylon, polyester, spandex, and modal blends. Performance fabrics like Lycra are also common to provide comfort and mobility.

What is the difference between gypsy leggings and regular leggings?

The main difference is that gypsy leggings feature colorful, bohemian inspired prints and patterns. Regular leggings typically come in solid colors and minimal designs.

Where can I buy gypsy leggings?

You can find gypsy leggings from brands like Lazypants, Vimmia, Soul Flower, and Just Peachy Leggings. Major retailers like Anthropologie, Free People, Target, and Old Navy also carry printed leggings.

What tops pair well with gypsy leggings?

Flowy, tunic length tops help balance the form-fitting leggings. Kimonos, babydoll tops, oversized sweaters, and asymmetric shirts complement the leggings.

How do I style gypsy leggings for a night out?

Pair printed leggings with heels, bodysuits, or sequin tops. Add statement jewelry and a leather or denim jacket for a chic nighttime look.