Leg Warmers

From LoveToKnow Teens

Leg warmers are not just for dancers anymore. In fact, this cool-weather accessory is enjoying a rebirth much like when they were first popular in the 1980s. Teen girls all over the country are snapping up this fun winter warmer. And why not? They are comfortable, warm and versatile, not to mention cute.

Styles of Leg Warmers

Leg warmers are essentially long socks without the foot part. They come in a variety of lengths, but those that go up to about the knee are most popular.

This leg accessory arrives in all sorts of different designs and is made of many different materials, just like socks. They may be solid colored or striped. They might have ribs, cables, or other sweater-like styling. Or they could have patterns like tiny skulls or an argyle pattern.

You can also find fuzzy styles, made from interesting yarns to make them look like boas. Chenille warmers also have a downy appearance. There are even versions you can slip through a high-heeled shoe and wear over your shoes. As with socks, if you look hard enough you are sure to find a pair (or a bunch!) you love.

Sources

Because leg warmers are so popular right now, you can find them in many retail stores. If you prefer to do your shopping online, there are a ton of options. Here are just a few sources to get you started:

Making Your Own

It's also possible, and a lot of fun, to make your own. More teens are learning to knit than ever, and knitting warmers doesn't have to be a difficult project. You can knit them flat and sew up the seam in the back quite easily.

If you already know how to knit, it will be know problem for you to knit your own, and you'll be the envy of all your friends because your warmers will be completely unique. They'll probably want you to teach them to knit next!

Here are some patterns you can use:

Wearing Warmers

In the 1980s, leg warmers were worn with other dancer-inspired clothing or clothes that made people look like they'd just finished a workout. They were most often paired with skirts and tennis shoes, and this look is still popular today.

A classic look for leg warmers is to wear them over tights with a short skirt. The layered look is very in, and you'll be warm no matter the weather. When it's a little warmer outside, keep the leg warmers but get rid of the tights.

Leg warmers can be worn over the tops of your shoes or just above the shoes so they look like socks. Sometimes you can even tuck the end into your shoe so it looks like you have on really long socks. Wear them with tennis shoes or with fancier shoes, depending on the design of the warmers and the look you are going for. Fashion designers are pairing them with heels for a sleek, dressy look.

You don't have to be limited to wearing your new accessory with skirts, of course. You can also wear them over your skinny jeans for a different take on the layered look. No matter what you decide to wear them with, they can be slouchy or stretched out, depending on whether you want them to look like socks or tights.

It's also great to pair knit warmers with other knitted objects, such as a great sweater or even a knit dress. Wear them over boots and you'll be ready for any weather situation.

Leg warmers are great for lounging around the house, too. If it's a little cold when you get out of bed in the morning, slip them on and you're good to go. And don't forget that you can also wear them on your arms with a T-shirt or other short-sleeved shirt for extra warmth. The possibilities are nearly endless.