I didn’t jump on the leggings bandwagon as quickly as some (I lived through a season of leggings in middle school and was quite traumatized) but once I did, they became a wardrobe staple that are functional from season to season. In the warm summer months they are great in lieu of jeans, in the spring and fall they are perfect to transition your wardrobe, and in the winter they make the ideal layering pieces.

Here are four ways to work leggings into your winter wardrobe.

Leggings as Tights

Leggings are a warmer and more comfortable version of tights, making them a cinch to dress up or down. If you can wear tights with an outfit, you can wear leggings. I love the super opaque look of leggings and a peak of a bare foot shows off your shoes. Pair leggings with sequin this holiday season for a more festive look.

Wear leggings with any outfit you would normally wear tights.

Jeggings with Cozy Sweaters

Don’t cringe when you hear the word jeggings. When done right, they are just a super stretchy pair of jeans, complete with the classic five pocket design and zipper fly and look great with cozy sweaters and riding boots (above the knee boots are hot hot hot). This is the easiest and most universally flattering way to wear jeggings.

Jeggings are just super stretcy jeans - don't be afraid!

Leggings with Coats

Capes, ponchos, and the classic trench can all be worn with leggings for a simple and versatile look. Pair with a long light cardigan (because you may want to eventually take the jacket off in public) and try embellished leggings to add interest to this basic look.

Dress up a classic trench with embelished leggings!

Ski Bunny Leggings

Want to be the most fashionable ski bunny on the slops (or – if you’re like me – in the lodge)? Take your favorite cozy sweater, your warmest parka, some great snow boots and layer it all on with your leggings for the perfect look.

Hit the slops with leggings and lots of layers.

PS – I know all the looks shown are with black leggings, but it’s just as easy to build an outfit with brown or gray leggings. Just remember the basics of neutral wardrobe pieces!