Since the Renaissance period leggings have been an important article of clothing used for protection and warmth. Native Americans wore buckskin leather leggings which were two pieces that covered the feet and went all the way up the leg more like high socks. Chaps worn by cowboys to protect from chapping caused by riding are considered a type of leggings. In the late 1800s leggings were part of the military uniform. While leggings became obsolete as part of the military outfit in the 1960s they became a part of fashion to replace trousers. Patricia Field claimed that she invented the modern leggings for women in the 1970s.
Whether you call them Leggings, Leg Warmers, Tights, Jodhpurs, or Gaiter they are all basically the same thing, an article of clothing that you wear on your legs to keep them warm, protection, or just fashion. Leggings come in different lengths, colors, and are made with multiple different materials. Exercise leggings are commonly made with Lycra while leather leggings are used more for protection. Silk leggings, denim leggings, lace leggings, pleather leggings, metallic leggings, cashmere leggings, velvet leggings, or knit leggings, to name a few are fashion leggings.
Leggings used for fashion can be seen paired with long shirts, short skirts, or dresses. Shoes that are worn with leggings range from ballet flats, sneakers, casual sandals, and high heels. Capris leggings and ankle leggings are available in a large variety of colors and prints to fit into every wardrobe. Animal print leggings for those with a wild side, floral print leggings for the softer side, or maybe just a solid color legging is more to your liking. Denim leggings are replacing the pair of jeans and can be paired with a blouse of your choice, maybe a large belt, and your favorite shoes.