THEfashion knows no rigid boundaries: it crosses them, blurs them and often rewrites them completely. Purely sporty garments are reinterpreted in a fashion key, nonchalantly conquering even the most sophisticated wardrobes. This is the case of stirrup leggingsoriginally linked to the equestrian world and today protagonists of the catwalks.
Minimal and comfortable, they come out of the riding stables and they establish themselves as the new must-have elegant trousers of 2026to be worn with sharp heels and flat ballet flats. A hybrid garment that plays between rigor and comfort, elegance and sporty charm: these original leggings gallop at full speed in Autumn Winter, but can already be worn now, thanks to the right combinations. To anticipate trends.
Stirrup leggings at the Autumn Winter 2026/2027 fashion shows
The trend equestrian-chic it did not go unnoticed at the Autumn Winter 2026/2027 collection shows. Many brands have chosen to bring leggings with gaiters to the catwalk: from Stella McCartney to Jil Sanderfrom Mugler to Balmain.
The common thread of all the looks spotted on the catwalk? Elegance. The leggings of the moment they move away from the idea of a technical garment and embrace a more refined aestheticmade of clean cuts and quality fabrics. The combinations become refined, thanks to structured tops and essential shirts, while the bracketdistinctive detail, becomes central thanks to the choice of shoes.
From Jil Sander’s Autumn Winter 2026/2027 collection. (Spotlight Launchmetrics)
Pumps, sandals, slingback: footwear with a strong feminine accent, which they make leggings unexpectedly sensual. Thanks above all to the thin heels, which help to slim the figure and create a more harmonious silhouette.
From Mugler’s Autumn Winter 2026/2027 collection. (Spotlight Launchmetrics)
How to Wear Stirrup Leggings in Spring
In a few months we will see them everywhere, but riding leggings can prove to be precious allies right now. Just combine them with spring clothes and accessories by definition, like leather jacket and ballet flats. The first is oversized and the second has no heels, along with stirrup trousers they give a casual-chic allure.
Stirrup leggings, leather jacket and flat ballet flats: the spring uniform is served. (Getty Images)
To make the ensemble even more sophisticated, the leather jacket leaves room for the structured blazer, while étoile shoes give way to mule sandals with thin heelswhich create verticality together with the bracket.
With the structured blazer and stiletto sandals, like a true It Girl. (Getty Images)
Just one pair of black leggings, many different interpretations: versatility is the strong point of this must-havewhich promises to solve numerous style dilemmas.
Better to play in advance… and ride the trend straight away.