It’s not easy shopping for fashion when you’ve got curves, but it’s a whole lot more fun than it used to be.
The body positive movement means more brands are finally taking notice and consequently designing for women who wear an extended size. More competition between brands means a greater level of choice; for a group of people who have historically been snubbed and sidelined by fashion, it’s a long-awaited win.
You name it and there’s a plus size version, from smoothing shapewear to make your occasionwear shine to jeans that fit every curve perfectly - no thigh bunching or builder’s bum in sight.
In our list below, you’ll find options for the gym, leisurewear and out-out leggings - the full spectrum awaits.
Without further ado, see our pick of the best leggings, made for plus size shoppers, below.
Snag Squat Proof Long Leggings - Suffragette Purple
Sizes: 4 - 30
Leggings that let you twist, shout and do everything else in between? Sign us up. Snag has been a welcome entrant in plus size fashion since it launched, specialising initially in tights across the colour wheel to fit curvy women. Boosted by its success, the brand has since launched into other apparel, including leggings. Available in black, navy and purple, this pair of squat-proof leggings will look just as good at your next exercise class as it will at brunch afterwards. Sizing is on a number system to ensure a great fit.
Buy now £25.99, SNAG
M&S GOODMOVE Go Train Printed 7/8 Gym Leggings
Sizes: 6 - 24
The last thing you want when you’re attempting a downward dog or minute-long plank is your leggings misbehaving. M&S’s Goodmove leggings are breathable, quick-drying and moisture-wicking and crucially, won’t go transparent when you’re working up a sweat. They’re designed for the gym, with enough stretch to facilitate freedom of movement whatever you’re doing: squatting, spinning or dreaded burpees. The zebra-stripe has a light green tint to it, giving it a fun edge that will have you looking forward to your next workout.
Buy now £32.50, M&S
Simply Be Chocolate High Waisted Faux Leather PU Legging
Sizes: 10 - 32
Brown leather-look trousers have had a bad rap since their ill-fated outing with former PM Theresa May, but Simply Be has righted that wrong with these chocolate-hued leggings. The PU design offers a cruelty-free version of the leather look with an elasticated waistband that will facilitate a smooth silhouette. Machine washable.
Buy now £26.00, Simply Be
Sweaty Betty All Day Wrap Waist 7/8 Leggings
Sizes: XS - 2XL
Lightweight and high-waisted, these leggings are designed to be worn all day, for work and play. They’re soft and stretchy with sweat-wicking qualities that’ll come into their own when you’re pushing hard at the gym. The black leggings (also available in brown, coral and blue) come with slip pockets to stash cards and keys - helpful if you’re out for a run.
Buy now £70.00, Sweaty Betty
Skims Disco Pant
Sizes: XXS - 4XL
These leggings couldn’t be more different to gym-wear - and not just because of the price tag. Kim Kardashian, the woman with arguably the most famous curves on the planet right now, is behind the brand, which offers a size-inclusive array of apparel. These body-skimming leggings are ready to hit the dancefloor with a high-shine finish that’s made for grooving under a mirrorball. More in jeggings territory, they’re finished with pockets to keep your Margarita money.
Buy now £98.00, Skims
Ulla Popken Crane Print Zip Pocket Stretch Knit Leggings
Sizes: 24 - 34
Fashionable fitness apparel is far and few between, which is why we love Ulla Popken’s crane-print leggings. The slim leg look features a high rise elastic waistband and there’s a pocket on the centre back for essentials like keys when you’re out for a run. Stretchy and comfortable, they’re ideal for a range of activities and go up to a size 34.
Buy now £45.00, Ulla Popken
Lululemon Wunder Train High-Rise Tight 25"
Sizes: up to UK24
Made for high-impact circuits and workouts where you’re guaranteed to work up a sweat, Lululemon’s Wunder Train leggings make the perfect gym partner. The contour fit four-way stretch design is made with sweat-wicking Everlux, which dries quickly and stays feeling cool on the inside.
Buy now £88.00, Lululemon
YOURS FOR GOOD Curve Black Ripped Mesh Insert Stretch Leggings
Sizes: 14 - 40
Prefer an edgier look? Forget trying to shoehorn yourself into ripped jeans and reach for Yours’ pair of black leggings with ready made rips instead. Crafted from forgiving jersey, mesh inserts give a barely-there look to exposed skin. Perfect for off-duty wear as well as easy festival fashion.
Buy now £15.99, YOURS
YOURS Curve Brown Stretch Soft Touch Faux Suede High Waisted Leggings
Sizes: 14 - 40
Soft, touchable suede in leggings that go to a size 40 - what’s not to love? Yours famously offers clothing for women who wear a dress size 14 and up, and these leggings are case in point. Available in black and brown as well as grey, they come with a high waist and snug fit. Perfect to wear over transitional periods when the season has yet to settle.
Buy now £22.99, YOURS
