The idea of leggings as pants seems to evoke strong feelings from girls everywhere. Some say that they are not acceptable, and it looks trashy. Others say wear what makes you happy, if you want leggings as pants, do it. Then there are people like me who have landed in a happy medium. We, the pro-leggings-as-pants community, believe that you can pull this look off, if you can do it classy. In order to stay classy, not trashy, leggings need to stay inside some guidelines.

My No. 1 leggings rule is you have to wear something loose fitting as your top. If you wear a tight top with your already tight leggings, it’s not exactly the cutest look. In almost every case, you need a balance in the way your clothes fit with your outfit, and leggings are no exception. Pair your cozy pants with a huge sweater or big, flowing top; not only will your outfit look more pulled together, but you will be so much more comfortable. Although style is important, no one wants to feel like she can’t breathe or move in her clothes.

The next legging rule is the length of your top. Most people believe that if you are not covering your bottom with your top, then you might as well be committing a crime. I feel a little differently. Obviously, crop tops are a no-no. However, I do think that if you top is at least half way covering your bottom, you are in the clear. Maybe that is my tall girl opinion shining through. As a tall girl, not all of my tops are as long as they would be if there were on a girl much shorter. Simply wear what looks good on your body and be mindful of it.

Leggings are not jeans. I have seen too many girls wearing ripped or torn leggings on purpose as a fashion statement. I thought this might already be common sense, but it seems that some people have slipped. While we are on the topic of worn leggings, please oh please, ladies, do not wear see-through leggings! I cannot stress this enough. If you bend over and the people around you can tell what color underwear you are wearing, you lose your decency. Keep it covered.

All in all, just be smart! Think about your overall look and you will be in the clear. If you need some style inspiration, Pinterest is the best place to go. Search leggings, and bam, you have so many styles to choose from. I just want the ladies of the world to understand that while leggings as pants are quite possibly the best thing to happen to fashion in years, you can’t just wear them with anything.

Stay beautiful, and classy, sunflowers.