Leg Warmers Are Back Like They Never Even Left

Queue Madonna’s “Hung Up.” We all know that leg warmers had a good run in the ‘80s. Yes, some people could not stand them, but much of the world adopted the trend and thought they were the bee’s knees. And as if we haven’t already seen a fair share of ‘90s and Y2K fashion trends reemerging this year, leg warmers are now officially back too. We are not pulling your leg. Not only have they already made their viral debut on TikTok, but celebs are wearing them, and the runways are crawling with the trend. Even New York designer Lindsay Vrckovnik recently confirmed to Vogue, “the 2000s and all of its trends are back, including leg warmers.”

But first, background. While leg warmers originally emerged in the ‘80s as a way to keep dancers’ ankles and lower legs warm during practice and warm-ups, it didn’t take long for the trend to gain international popularity as fashionable over just functional. In fact, the ‘80s were littered with fashion statements — padded shoulders, spandex, leotards, and bright-colored leg warmers. Of course, no trend comes back exactly the same. While the hallmark of leg warmers in the ‘80s was bright colors, the trend’s revival largely appears to feature neutral colors with a focus on different textures, making this comeback accessory-focused.

Due to its trendsetting glory, you simply cannot talk about trends (especially revived ones) without talking about TikTok first. Not only does #legwarmers have millions of views, but users are even making their own DIY leg warmers and demonstrating how they style the trend. TikTok user @annasgh0st made the trend grunge by pairing black leg warmers with a denim mini skirt, black fishnet tights, and a newspaper print top. Another user, @awlilaa put her best foot forward, demonstrating how she stylishly wears her cotton-ribbed leg warmers with her Mary Jane shoes.