So, you're ready to update your wardrobe collection with some new plus-size leggings but don't know where to start? Step right up folks, welcome to the world of leggings. Yes, that's right - we here at heat are certified learned leggings legends (say that three times fast) and know a thing or two about finding the best leggings for you and your body.
Plus-size leggings can be a bit trickier to shop online, but don't despair - it's getting easier by the day. In 2023, brands like H&M, Yours and PrettyLittleThing have Curve collections, with sizing from 16 to 40, celebrating your body no matter the size. Because the world would be oh-so-boring if we all looked the same. Let's leave that mentality back in the noughties, shall we? Along with the low-cut jeans and Claire's owl necklaces.
There are plus-size leggings for every need. Whether that be a casual pair of black leggings or some gym leggings that are sweat-wicking (and ultra-cute, of course. Got to impress your gym crush who you've never spoken to but eyed across the weight machines. We know you know.) Included in our list below are also some leggings packs so you can save money by buying in bulk, as well as an affordable high-waisted pair from H&M which is a must-have. Ribbed leggings are also having a moment, so we've thrown in a few of those, too.
heat's best plus-size leggings at a glance:
Whatever you need, we've got below - so let's get started on our ultimate guide to the best plus-size leggings.
SHOP: The best plus-size leggings to add to your basket ASAP
Best plus-size leggings (Editor's Choice)
YOURSwww.yoursclothing.co.uk
Our top pick for the best plus-size leggings has to be the YOURS Curve Black Soft Touch Stretch Leggings. Not only do they have sizes from 14 to 40, but you can customise the inside length of the leg. Ranging from 25 to 32 inches, your leggings won't be too long or too short. Hallelujah.
Sizing: 14 - 40
Colours: Black, Grey, Navy or Plum Purple
Yours review: "I'm so glad I discovered Yours Clothing; such a wide range of gorgeous plus size clothing! Most plus-size retailers offer only small selections of shapeless, overpriced, dull clothing but Yours is really leading the way in affordable, beautiful clothes for plus-size women. As happy as I am to order online, I would love to see a store in Belfast at some point in the future!"
Best plus-size leggings pack
yourswww.yoursclothing.co.uk
Once you begin forming your leggings collection, it's hard to stop. And who says we should? Bulk up on your options with Yours' two-pack of their Curve Black Cotton Stretch Leggings. Made from responsibly sourced cotton and part of the 'Yours For Good' range, they feature an elasticated waistband and stretch fit for added comfort.Â
Sizing: 14 - 40
Colours: Black
Yours review: "I'm absolutely addicted to this brand, everything is generous fit and good quality. Fashionable and flattering, I can't stop buying in-store and online."
Best plus-size high-waisted leggings
H&Mwww2.hm.com
H&M is the queen of cotton (sustainable cotton, too) and so their H&M+ Cotton Jersey Leggings are unsurprisingly super soft and buttery. Designed with a high, elasticated waist, you'll look effortlessly cool without even trying. At under £10, you can't beat the bargain.
Sizing: L - 4XL
Colours: Black or Light Khaki Green
H&M review: "Love these leggings. Stretchy in all the right places, good length and wash well."
Best plus-size contour leggings
prettylittlethingwww.prettylittlething.com
If you've seen the scrunch bum leggings plastered all over your TikTok feed, you'll love these PLT Plus Charcoal Seamless 2 Tone Contour Leggings. Designed to contour your thighs and calves, these leggings feature a charcoal two-tone material with a seamless design and a high-waisted fit.Â
Sizing: XL - XXXL
Colours: Charcoal
Best plus-size acid wash leggings
new lookwww.newlook.com
Okay, we know the noughties were not everyone's cup of tea, but one fashion trend that can be forgiven from that time period is acid wash. Bring it back baby! These gorgeous Curves Dark Grey High Waisted Acid Wash Leggings from New Look are made with soft stretchy cotton with a high waistline.
Sizing: 18 - 32
Colours: Dark Grey
New Look review: "Best Leggings I've ever had. They're so comfy and they don't fall down, but they're not too tight around my legs either."
Best plus-size gym leggings
decathlonwww.decathlon.co.uk
With gym leggings, you have to get them just right - and Decathlon nails it with their Cardio Fitness High-Waisted Shaping Plus-Size Leggings. Formulated for even high-intensity workouts, these leggings feature a shaping waistband and a handy phone pocket for that all-important gym selfie.
Sizing: 20 - 28
Colours: Black
Best patterned plus-size leggings
decathlonwww.decathlon.co.uk
If you want a pair of gym or running leggings with a bit more flair, we love these printed Cardio Fitness High-Waisted Plus-Sized Leggings, also from Decathlon. Available in two beautifully ethereal patterns, these leggings feature sweat-wicking material, drawstring elastic and a shaping waist.
Sizing: 20 - 28
Colours: Snow White or Multicolour
Best plus-size stirrup leggings
house of fraserwww.houseoffraser.co.uk
Stirrup leggings are iconic and so easy to dress up or down for any occasion. The stirrup ankle adds an interesting feature to your outfit and very equestrian - but not in the horse girl way. Made with soft jersey, these Missguided Plus Size Rib Stirrup Leggings, on sale for only £7, need to be in your wardrobe ASAP.
Sizing: 16 - 28
Colours: Black
Best plus-size leggings for a night out
Best plus-size leggings for a night out
prettylittlethingwww.prettylittlething.com
It's fair to say we're utterly obsessed with these PLT Plus Black Extreme High Waist Leggings, featuring a unique extreme high waist, which almost looks like a corset. For those who love corset tops, this is the perfect pair for you. Cinching in at the waist to accentuate your curves, the polyester material adds a sexy sheen to the look.
Sizing: 16 - 30
Colours: Black
Where to buy the best plus-size leggings?
All the brands listed above are focused on selling leggings for women sized up to 40. If you are unsure about your sizing, we recommend buying several sizes of the shapewear you're interested in and returning any you don't need. Plenty of brands have fantastic return systems in place now, so it's really no hassle. Or you can always shop in person - as well as their website, Yours is a great in-store location to shop for plus-size leggings.
Our top tips for choosing the best plus-size leggings for you...
Fit: buy multiple sizes to try on
If the thighs are too tight or the waist doesn't quite sit right, you'll only come to wish you'd bought multiple pairs of leggings to test out the different sizes and how they work for your body. Even if you want to cinch in certain areas, your leggings shouldn't feel tight, so make sure you're not cutting off your circulation. You can send back what you don't need and keep the pair that wowed you.
Comfort: is key
Your plus-size honeycomb leggings might have the coolest, jazziest pattern in the world, but if you don't feel comfortable, then what's the point? Plus, you can't beat a classic simple pair of black leggings. You can always dress up your top half with a graphic tee, or lace bralette on a night out.
Fabric: make sure it's breathable
Whatever the weather, you need your leggings to be breathable. No one likes to feel like they're overheating while trying to enjoy their day. Therefore, make sure your leggings are made from quality materials before you buy. Cotton (or better, recycled cotton) is a no-brainer. If you're looking for plus-size gym leggings, fabric that is sweat-wicking is essential.
Price: you don't have to spend loads
As you can see from our list, high prices don't always guarantee good quality. You can pick up a great pair of leggings for just under £10, or you can spend over £100 and the quality might not differ that much. Save that extra money for more important things - like some new UGG fluffy slippers. Priorities.
Ruby Barry is a Product Writer for heat, specialising in fashion and beauty. The team has nicknamed her "dupe queen", as there's not a product in the world she can't find a cheaper alternative for.