However, fashion stylist Audree López explains that faux leather can also be made from “polyester, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), nylon, elastane, or a spandex blend.” With faux leather leggings, you’ll find that “typically, the base is made of nylon, spandex, polyester, etc, and then there is a coating on the outer layer of wax, dye, polyurethane or polyvinyl chloride to give the leggings a ‘leather look.’”

While these leggings are designed with movement in mind, their polished appearance and high-waisted silhouette means you can wear them while running errands or grabbing brunch with friends, and it won't be obvious that you just came from the gym. They made be a bit of a splurge, but their versatility makes these performance leggings worth it. You may notice an off-gassing scent when you first open them, so you should probably give them a wash before wearing them out. They also have a shinier finish than other faux leather leggings, which may not be everyone's cup of tea. But if you're searching for an affordable option that will keep you cozy throughout your whole pregnancy, these are a great option to consider.You don’t have to worry about ripping or tearing your leggings since they have reinforced seams, and they have a tight fit that hugs your ankles for a streamlined finish. However, they only carry sizes small through XL, so they may not be a good fit if you're petite or plus-sized. Not every legging is offered in petite sizes, so we love how Commando makes these in a petite inseam from XS to XL. Conroy suggests this style because they bring “sculpted excellence” to any look. With a high shine and a raw cut hem, these are for the glamorous that want to make a statement.

There are a few factors to consider while finding leggings with the perfect fit. It’s important to recognize that not all leggings are cut the same way—for example, some styles have a tapered leg while others are more straight down, so know your preferences before purchasing a pair.

Faux Leather Leggings F.A.Q.

Quality faux leather will have a deep, grainy texture but feel soft like genuine leather. But regardless of the texture — whether you prefer a patent (like Commando Faux Patent), a matte finish (like Good American Good Waist Faux Leather Leggings), or something in between like Spanx Faux Leather Leggings— it should feel sleek and ultra-smooth on the body because it will most likely be lined. If there was ever a case to blow half of your rent on must-have leggings, this is it,” says fashion stylist and TV personality Cindy Conroy. “Mugler’s Debossed design is futuristic yet modern and approachable.” Same thing goes if you’re plus-sized: Know your proportions and find a brand with an inclusive size range. We recommend the Good American Good Waist Faux Leather Leggings because they have an inclusive size range that goes up to 5XL. What We Don’t Love: The bikini bottom etching at the front can draws attention to your crotch, which might be uncomfortable for some. While they are not as easy to style as jeans, they can definitely serve as a wardrobe staple for many years to come.

If you live in a cold climate, faux leather leggings are some of the best options out there to keep you toasty warm. “Faux leather leggings are one of my go-to closet essentials for winter because they’re so comfortable and can pair seamlessly with a chunky sweater or tall boots,” says López. “Some can even keep me warmer than other pants or denim if they have fleece or thermal lining.” These leggings are made with a polyester and spandex blend, so they have a good amount of stretch without being see-through and they won't restrict your movement. However, keep in mind that the fabric is on the thinner side. While their sizes range from small to 3X, they don't offer petite or tall sizes, so they may find them a bit too short or long depending on your height. If you are self-conscious about wearing leggings with a cropped top, I highly recommend getting faux leather pants.

The best leather-look trousers & leggings to shop now

These leggings feel a bit tight at first, but they do stretch and form to your body with time. We suggest going with your usual size and doing a couple of squats to get them loosened up. Faux Leather Leggings can be dressed up or dressed down- that’s why I like to call them the chameleon of leggings. Another factor to consider is height, especially if you’re tall or petite. For shorter people, López recommends Spanx and Commando leggings. “I’m personally 5 feet 3 inches, and the Spanx Petite leggings fit great for length.” The Commando leggings have a raw-cut hem, which López tells us is “great if you need to shorten the length—just cut off with a pair of scissors and you won’t need to professionally tailor the fabric.” Chelsea Frank has been a freelance writer for 10 years, covering fashion, beauty, lifestyle, wellness, and beyond with bylines on Brides, Uproxx, and TripSavvy, among others. For this article, she interviewed fashion stylist and TV personality Cindy Conroy and Stitch Fix stylist Alicia Lloyd. As the examples above show, you can wear basically any shirt with faux leather leggings. Just keep in mind your proportions.