Black Leggings, Move Over
*Updated on February 16th, 2019* Retailers have a nasty habit of hijacking my attention at this time of the year. Their sales take my mind back to the end of summer. Then their Christmas music takes me forward to the end of the year! Somewhere in between, is an underrated holiday that celebrates some of the most important things in life: gratitude, family and a shared meal. In honor of Thanksgiving, let’s put aside our inner “glamoristas” and switch to easy, comfortable outfits. For me, that once meant black leggings and an oversized t-shirt, but lately, I’ve found a handful other styles that I like even more. Here are some alternatives to black leggings that are equally comfortable and chic…
Structured Stretch Pants
A few years ago, when Athleta arrived at our local mall, most of my old black leggings made their way into my recycle pile. Athleta offers a wider range of styles than most athleisure brands. They’re as comfortable and durable as athletic wear, but with a little more structure (seams, zippers, and pockets). This is one of my favorites:

The Wander Straight Pant is a similar style that is available now. Wear it with a fitted t-shirt, a sweatshirt or a casual button-down shirt.
The Stretch Skirt
While the weather is still warm enough, I like to wear skirts as much as possible. This one is also from Athleta, and no longer available, but the Costa Midi Dress would be just as comfortable. Wear it with a warm wrap or cardigan.

For a shorter version, take a look at Lululemon’s Start Anew Skirt or On The Fly Skirt which is now on sale. Wear them now with sneakers, and later in the winter with boots.
I also bought this skirt from Athleta. I wear it with short or long t-shirts, or a tank top and cardigan. The Boulevard Maxi dress has a similar shape and high

A-line Skirt And Opaque Tights
My other go-to casual piece for the fall is this skirt, also from (you guessed it) Athleta! I wear it with black opaque tights and boots and virtually any casual top in my closet.

This & Other Stories Velvet Midi Pencil Skirt is a little long and has buttons, but would also work with most casual tops. They also have a corduroy version.
Why Athleta
Since I’ve mentioned a lot of Athleta items, I thought I’d better mention that this is not a sponsored post, but rather, an “ode” to one of my favorite brands! In addition to their casual, chic styling I also like their:
Outstanding service including free hemming, generous return policy, and helpful staff.
Store events including free classes, and local wellness vendors
Discounts for those who work in fitness, and sales for those who don’t.
Athleta is my go-to brand for comfortable alternatives to black leggings. These pieces work well for those days when I’m running from one activity to another. They’re also great when I can’t resist a second helping of dessert! Please forgive the wrinkles in my photos. I seem to have developed turkey-brain. I’ve been so engrossed in developing this blog over the past two months, that I haven’t had time to steam or iron any clothes. Besides, I just realized that it’s almost Thanksgiving. Whoa!!!

