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Red and Black Striped Leggings

Red and black striped leggings suit costumes, holidays and bold outfits. Fabric decides how they wear.

Updated . Edited by: Ilyass Ben Hakim.

Where to buy

Costume shops stock them most around Halloween and the winter holidays. Online sellers carry women's, plus and girls' sizes year round. Check whether a listing is leggings or sheer tights.

Professional insight

Apparel buyers check the fabric blend and stripe method first. Printed and knitted stripes wear differently.

  • Knitted stripes keep color when stretched; prints can crack.
  • Opaque leggings need a thicker knit than costume tights.
  • Wide stripes look bolder; thin stripes read more casual.
  • Check stripe alignment at the side seams.

Check the label

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Materials

Common legging fabrics
FabricFeelBest for
Nylon and spandexSmooth, slightly shinyCostumes and active wear
Cotton and spandexSoft, matteEveryday wear
Polyester and spandexLight, quick dryingPrinted stripe designs
Thin nylon hosierySheerCostume tights, not leggings

Sizing

  • Measure waist and hips, then use the seller's chart.
  • One size often fits only a narrow range.
  • Plus listings may use 1X to 4X instead of numbers.
  • Size up if you want them less sheer when stretched.

Styling tips

  • Pair with a solid black top to let stripes lead.
  • Add black boots for a costume or punk look.
  • Wear a long tunic or dress over thin stripes.
  • Match red accessories to the stripe shade.

Care

  • Wash inside out in cold water.
  • Wash red items alone the first few times.
  • Skip fabric softener on spandex blends.
  • Air dry flat to protect the stretch.

Common questions

Are striped leggings and striped tights the same?
No. Tights are thinner and usually have feet. Leggings are thicker and end at the ankle.
Will the red dye bleed?
It can at first. Wash them separately in cold water.
Do they come in kids' sizes?
Yes. Several sellers list girls' sizes in red and black stripes.