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The Best Leggings for a Flattering Fit: Styles for Every Body Shape

Author: Stylist and brand team at Tellar

Date: 2025

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Author: Tellar.co.uk | Published: July 2025

All content is unbiased, independent, and free from sponsorship.

Finding the perfect pair of leggings is more than just picking the right size — it’s about understanding what suits your body shape, your comfort, and your style. Whether you’re looking for high-waisted sculpting leggings, buttery-soft loungewear, or sleek gym-ready designs, this guide breaks down the most flattering leggings for every body type. We’ll also show you how Tellar.co.uk eliminates the guesswork by matching your exact body measurements to over 1,500 brands in real-time.

Why Leggings Are a Wardrobe Essential

Leggings have evolved from simple activewear into a wardrobe staple. Their versatility, comfort, and ability to flatter make them a must-have for all women — from everyday casual looks to dressier outfits with blazers or oversized knits. The key to looking great in leggings lies in selecting the right cut, fabric, and rise for your body shape.

Body Shape Guide: What Leggings Flatter Your Figure?

1. Hourglass Shapes

Defining features: Curvy hips and bust with a defined waist.

Best leggings:

  • High-waisted compression leggings enhance your waist and create a smooth silhouette.

  • V-contour seams or curved back stitching flatter the natural shape of your bum and waist.

Brand Examples:

Tellar Tip: Hourglass figures can often struggle with gaping waistbands — Tellar.co.uk eliminates this issue by matching your waist, hips, and rise to each brand's specific cut. Create your profile here to get a guaranteed fit.

2. Pear Shapes

Defining features: Narrower shoulders and bust with wider hips and thighs.

Best leggings:

  • Dark, matte fabrics that slim the lower body.

  • Slight flared or bootcut leggings to balance the hips.

  • Avoid shiny materials or light colours that draw attention to the thighs.

Brand Examples:

Tellar Tip: Pear-shaped bodies benefit from leggings with extra stretch around the hips but a snug waistband. Try Tellar's size tool to avoid waist roll-down or hip compression.

3. Apple Shapes

Defining features: Broader torso and midsection with slimmer legs and hips.

Best leggings:

  • Wide waistband styles that support the tummy without digging in.

  • Mid-rise or high-rise designs with gentle compression.

  • Avoid overly tight styles at the waistband.

Brand Examples:

Tellar Tip: Apple figures often find sizing inconsistent across brands. Use Tellar.co.uk to compare the actual waist and hip cut before buying.

4. Rectangle Shapes

Defining features: Balanced shoulders, waist, and hips with minimal curves.

Best leggings:

  • Contour seaming to create the illusion of curves.

  • Bold prints or side panels add shape and dimension.

  • Ruched or pocketed bum panels enhance shape visually.

Brand Examples:

Tellar Tip: Look for performance leggings with structure — Tellar helps you find cuts that add contour without feeling bulky. Print your free measuring tape to measure at home.

5. Petite Frames

Defining features: Shorter height, often under 5'4", with proportionally smaller legs.

Best leggings:

  • 7/8 or cropped leggings that don’t bunch at the ankles.

  • Avoid regular-length styles that can overwhelm your frame.

Brand Examples:

Tellar Tip: Don’t size down for length — Tellar lets you filter by inseam and rise for your exact measurements.

6. Tall Frames

Defining features: Height over 5'8", long legs.

Best leggings:

  • Tall-length options with extended inseam.

  • Extra-high-rise to maintain proportion.

Brand Examples:

Tellar Tip: Avoid ankle-baring lengths — Tellar helps you find leggings with enough leg length and correct hip rise.

Materials Matter: What to Look For

  • For smoothing and lift: Nylon/Spandex blends with over 20% elastane offer compression and sculpting.

  • For breathability: Cotton or bamboo blends are best for lounging and everyday comfort.

  • For workouts: Look for sweat-wicking tech like polyester blends with mesh panels.

How Tellar.co.uk Solves Leggings Sizing

At Tellar.co.uk, we know leggings are one of the hardest garments to get right. That’s why we’ve built the UK’s leading free sizing tool that matches your body measurements to over 1,500+ brands, leggings included.

✔️ Don’t guess sizes

✔️ Don’t rely on generic S/M/L labels

✔️ Don’t waste time with returns

Simply measure your waist, hips, and leg length using our free printable measuring tape, and we’ll tell you your best size for every pair of leggings — from Alo Yoga to Sweaty Betty to Uniqlo.

Related Tellar.co.uk Sizing Posts You’ll Love

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Final Thoughts

The best leggings are the ones that fit you — not the size on the label. Whether you’re curvy, petite, athletic, or tall, Tellar.co.uk is here to help you find the perfect fit with no guesswork. Explore thousands of unbiased clothing guides, fit reviews, and personalised recommendations based on your exact body.

Find your size now. It’s free & easy.

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