The 11 Best Faux-Leather Leggings for Every Budget and Body Type

Multiple PureWow staffers, myself included, own and rave about these leggings (some even have multiple pairs), but we are not the only mega-fans. This Spanx style is consistently awarded five-star ratings and has accrued incredibly positive reviews on Nordstrom, Amazon and Zappos (just to name a few). “I love the fact that they have a subtle shine, rather than a patent finish or that awful garbage bag look so many faux-leathers end up with,” says former Commerce Editor Brianna Lapolla. “But what I really love is the fact that these have that built-in Spanx shaping technology that makes my butt look so amazing, even without a single squat.” Indeed, these leggings feature a contoured Power Waistband which smooths and flattens your tummy and makes your bum look extra perky. One thing to note, however: Many reviewers suggest ordering one size up for a more comfortable, less constricting fit. I am usually between a medium and large in leggings and find the large to be much more comfortable for all-day wear.

Fast Facts

• Material: 87 percent nylon, 13 percent elastane with polyurethane coating
• Size Range: XS to 3X, also Petite and Tall

If a super high shine is what you’re after, you can’t beat Commando’s patent finish leggings. They come in classic black, disco-inspired white, deep burgundy, camel beige and a super-chic olive green hue, all of which look way more expensive than their $118 price tag. “These pants are amazing! They look like liquid and they’re surprisingly very comfortable” says one reviewer. As for sizing, I find these leggings run a smidge small and was more comfortable sizing up one from my usual. And although the waistband is not particularly wide, the high rise gives you a super-smooth look that won’t sag or roll down as you move about your day.

You should expect a little bit of squeaking with the first wear (this is pretty typical for any patent leather pants, and lots of matte-finish leather, too), but luckily there is a simple fix—take a small dab of unscented body lotion or face oil and rub it between your hands, then gently swipe it onto the section of the leather that’s squeaking (be sure to test the lotion first on an inconspicuous spot to make sure it won’t cause damage). Use a microfiber towel to remove any excess and voilà! No more squeaking or creaking.

Fast Facts

• Material: 62 percent polyurethane, 36 percent viscose, 2 percent elastane
• Size Range: XS to 3X, also Petite

Torrid is one of my favorite places to recommend for chic plus-size clothing that’s both affordable and looks fabulous. And these faux-leather leggings check all those boxes and more, with a no-fuss seamless look for an overall leg-lengthening effect. The leggings do run true-to-size, but those over 5-foot-9 may find the 27-inch inseam a tad cropped. Multiple reviewers mention owning more than one pair and almost all rave about how luxe these leggings look IRL. Per one recent reviewer, “I never thought I’d be a person who would want to wear leather or faux-leather pants or leggings but here I am. At 59 [years-old], I am rocking them and feeling great! These feel smooth and comfortable, and not plasticity at all. There is also no loud rubbing sound when I walk.”

Fast Facts

• Material: polyester/spandex blend
• Size Range: 00 to 6 (roughly US 10 to 30)

Yes, Spanx already has one mention in this list, but when it comes to leggings for the 5-foot-2 and under crowd, there’s still nothing that can top this fan favorite. With a 26-inch inseam, they won’t pool at your ankles, like many cropped styles do (which, to be honest, were never going to look cropped on you anyway). Plus, a 9 ½-inch rise is high enough to comfortably cover your midriff without going all the way up to your bust. Like the regular and tall lengths, Spanx’s petite leggings tend to run small, and I recommend sizing up for comfort. “I love these leggings. They almost look like leather pants and love how they snatch my stomach and legs,” says one Nordstrom reviewer. Assistant Commerce Editor Natalie LaBarbera, who stands 5’2”, says the petite length fits her legs perfectly. “I love pairing them with an oversize sweater and sneakers if I want to keep them casual or over-the-knee boots to dress them up,” she notes.

Fast Facts

• Material: 87 percent nylon, 13 percent spandex with polyurethane coating
• Size Range: XS to XL, also Petite

Comfort is key for maternity wear, but that doesn’t mean you need to sacrifice style to get there. A soft jersey waistband supports and accommodates your ever-growing belly without feeling restrictive. Meanwhile, the faux-leather fabric of the legs is super lightweight (who wants to deal with shimmying into or out of heavy, sweaty leggings?) with a subtle shine that looks great with both cozy oversize knits for lounging at home or a flowy blouse for more dressed-up occasions. As an added bonus, they’re also machine-washable. Per one 5-star reviewer, “Stuck to pre-pregnancy size when purchasing and couldn’t be happier. No complaints about the quality so far. A great piece to dress up my standard knit sweaters this season!”

Fast Facts

• Material: 95 percent polyester, 5 percent spandex
• Size Range: XXS to XXL

These high-waist faux-leather leggings come in sizes XS through 4X and are lined with a thin layer of fleece that helps prevent them from turning sheer no matter how low you squat or how often you wear them—no wonder they’ve earned 16,000 reviews and a 4-star rating. I also love the subtle shine (they’re not quite patent leather, but they are shinier than most of the other pairs on this list), especially in the beautiful burgundy color. They come in a black, camel brown and a wine red hue, all of which are machine-washable, to give you lots of options. And don’t worry about awkward squeaking while you walk, these affordable leggings apparently glide noiselessly as you move.

Fast Facts

• Material: not listed
• Size Range: XS to 4XL

High quality faux-leather leggings for under $50? Yes, it can be done, and this Quince style is the proof. These leggings have a comfortable high rise and wide waistband, as well as a petite-friendly 26-inch inseam. Reviewers rave about how expensive the material looks in person and I found almost no mention of any squeaking or sticking while walking. “These leggings are so well made and are so comfortable,” writes one 5-star reviewer. “I’ve been looking for a pair of faux-leather leggings that are not too tight and and look like quality material and these are perfect!” Reviews also suggest these leggings fit true to size, with a handful of petite shoppers noting they actually preferred to size down one from their usual.

FAST FACTS

• Material: 88 percent nylon, 12 perent spandex
• Size Range: XS to XL

If you’re willing to invest big bucks on a pair of long-lasting, flattering faux-leather leggings, you really can’t do better than Wolford. The popular British hosiery company puts a huge emphasis on fit across its entire product range and these slimming leggings are no exception. Reviewers loved the smoothing effect of a tight fit at the hips and bum, while the ankles are slightly looser, for more of a skinny trouser silhouette. The same could be said for any of the leggings on this list, but because the sizing is being converted from international sizing, I highly recommend measuring yourself and double checking the guide and reviews to ensure you get the perfect fit.

Fast Facts

• Material: 52 percent polyester, 48 percent Polyurethane
• Size Range: EU 34 to 42 (roughly US 4 to 12)

Faux leather tends to be pretty great at keeping you warm, but for truly cold winter days you’ll probably want a little extra something to keep your stems from freezing over, especially if you’re opting for leggings over true pants. Enter Plush, a brand dedicated entirely to fleece-lined leggings and tights that will keep you nice and cozy without adding any bulk or causing you to overheat once you go indoors. As a bonus, that fleece layer further helps to smooth out your silhouette without the constrictive feeling of shapewear. As for how it stands up to the cold? Take it from one Chicago reviewer who says, “Highly recommend! They are so comfortable, warm and soft for those windy Chicago winters. And no additional layers required.”

Fast Facts

• Material: 90 percent polyester, 10 percent spandex
• Size Range: XXS to XXL

If you’re looking for a pair of faux-leather leggings that can see you through anything and everything, including a tough workout, this Carbon38 pair should be top of your list. It has a wide waistband designed to move with you through medium-impact workouts (like Pilates or power walking), but that also stays put for a day full of errand running or hanging with friends. It comes in three styles, the high-waist full length pictured above, as well as a 7/8 length high rise and mid rise. The material is also designed to wick away sweat and excess moisture to keep you feeling cool and comfortable, making these one of the most breathable pairs of faux-leather leggings on this list. Reviews suggest they fit true to size, and look even better IRL than they do online.

FAST FACTS

• Material: 80 percent nylon, 20 percent lycra
• Size Range: XXS to XXL

For those who still aren’t convinced that leggings should indeed be worn as pants, I recommend looking for a pair with additional detailing at the waist, like this affordable HUE style. The button at the waistband and pockets on the bum give the illusion of pants, while the stretchy, soft material provides all the comfort of leggings. Reviewers say the material is wonderfully soft and surprisingly lightweight, too. The 29.5-inch inseam may be too long for petite frames, but for those with long legs it is certainly long enough to wear with flats or loafers without looking too cropped. And it should be noted that not only are these leggings machine-washable, they’re also dryer safe (only on low), for easy care. Some reviewers found these leggings ran small, but others note they should stretch a bit after wearing them once or twice. “I love them and the fit, in terms of shape-hugging, is fantastic!” writes one reviewer. “They are high waisted with a bit of control, which is wonderful.”

Fast Facts

• Material: 90 percent polyester, 10 percent spandex
• Size Range: XS to XL