What to Wear with Leggings in Winter (Australian Edition)

What to Wear With Leggings in Winter (Australian Edition)

When winter hits in Australia, getting dressed can feel like a guessing game. Cold mornings, mild afternoons, and the occasional freezing wind mean layering is everything.

That’s why leggings are a winter essential—they’re comfortable, versatile, and the perfect base for building outfits that actually work for our climate.

If you’ve ever stood in front of your wardrobe thinking “what do I even wear with leggings?”—this is your guide.

1. Start Strong: Leggings That Anchor the Outfit

Not all leggings are created equal. The right pair doesn’t just sit in the background—it makes the outfit. Whether it's a sleek black legging such as the Lilybod Chloe Leggings or a cool print - start here and then build your look.

A subtle print like the Lilybod Becca Leggings in the hugely popular Black or Martini Stucco Camo Print instantly elevates your look from basic to styled. Pair them with neutral layers (think black, white, or grey) to let the print do the work.

For winter, look for leggings with a slightly thicker, supportive fabric so they hold their shape and keep you warm during those early mornings.

2. Layer Smart With Fitted Basics

The secret to winter styling is layering without adding bulk.

A fitted base like the Lilybod Harmony Tank is perfect—it sits close to the skin, keeps you warm, and creates a smooth foundation under your layers.

From there, you can build on your look. Think:

• Tank → lightweight sweat → jacket
• Tank → hoodie → coat

This keeps your outfit streamlined rather than bulky (which is key when you’re wearing leggings).

3. Add a Lightweight Sweat for Everyday Wear

For that effortless off-duty look, a lightweight layering piece is a must.

The Lilybod Shelby Sweat is ideal for Australian winters—warm enough for cooler mornings but breathable enough when the day heats up. It’s soft and effortlessly slouchy, the kind of piece you’ll throw on for:

• Coffee runs
• School drop-offs
• Heading to Pilates
• Weekend errands

Pair it with leggings and sneakers and you’ve got a go-to outfit that always works.

4. Throw On a Jacket to Finish the Look

Outerwear is what really pulls everything together. This is also the piece that can take your look from "activewear chic" to "fashion forward chic"

With leggings, your best options are:

• Puffer jackets (casual and practical) We have the last stock of the Lilybod Jodie and Jordan Puffer Jackets if you're quick.  I have both and absolutely love them!
• Longline coats (elevated and polished). Think trench coats or long wool blend coats. These really elevate your overall look.
• Bomber Jackets. These are having a huge moment and they look incredible with leggings for a cool, effortless daytime look. We love bombers from other Australian brands such as Sabbi and Henne but even Target have some great options.
• Denim jackets (more casual and perfect for milder winter days)

Layer your jacket over your Shelby Sweat, Harmony Tank or hoodie for a look that feels styled, not thrown together.

5. Balance Your Proportions

Leggings are fitted, so balance is key.

The easiest formula:

• Fitted bottom + relaxed or oversized top

Think:

• Leggings + bomber + cap
• Leggings + sweat + coat + sunglasses
• Leggings + hoodie + puffer + chunky 90's style New Balance trainers.

This creates that effortless, flattering silhouette you see all over Pinterest—but actually works in real life.

6. Choose the Right Trainers

Shoes can completely change the vibe of your outfit.

In winter, the perfect pairing is a pair of chunky trainers with warm, white sports socks to keep your ankles toasty.

• Classic white sneakers such as Nike Air Max or Air Force (classic and fresh)
• Chunky trainers such as the New Balance 9060 (sporty and on-trend)
  
• UGG-style slides (only for the bold and best for comfort-first days - yes socks too if you're game)

7. Make It Work for Real Life

Australian winters aren’t about heavy layering—they’re about adaptable outfits.

That’s why pieces like:

• A fitted tank (Harmony Tank)
• A lightweight sweat (Shelby Sweat)
• A great pair of leggings (like the Becca Camo)

…become staples you can mix and match depending on the day.

8. Final Additions Matter

Leggings are one of the hardest-working pieces in your winter wardrobe—you just need to style them with intention.

Add the final touches to really land your "effortlessly cool" outfit. This could be a luxe cross body bag, a pair of oversized sunnies, a statement cap or a designer scarf.

Once you get that right, you’ll have winter outfits that feel effortless—but still look put together.