It was around this time last year when Katie Holmes made an unexpected fashion choice that took me by surprise: The actress stepped out in a pair of stirrup leggings with a cinched denim jacket, a designer bag, and peep-toe heels. In doing so, she made the case for the controversial equestrian-inspired style, demonstrating how it can function well beyond the stable.
At the time, I wrote off stirrup leggings as a fleeting fad. In hindsight, I’m mature enough to admit that I was totally wrong: Stirrups are here to stay, and the proof is on the Fall 2025 runways.
Balmain gave the stirrup leggings an upscale treatment, demonstrating that these pants aren’t just for horse girls.
(Image credit: Launchmetrics)
According to Dries Van Noten, stirrup leggings look best with a statement jacket and glove-like shoes.
(Image credit: Launchmetrics)
Designers like Balmain and Dries Van Noten elevated the look alongside sculptural outerwear and sophisticated shoes in their autumnal collections. It didn’t take long for stirrup leggings to make their way into the closets of fashion insiders. In her latest column for Marie Claire’s contributor series “Style at Large,” Danielle Prescod shares that Gap’s High Rise Double Knit Stirrup Pants have earned a prime spot in her winter capsule wardrobe, alongside snug sweaters and pointy kitten heels.
While I was initially a stirrup skeptic, I’ve been convinced to give the trend a ride. If you’d like to do the same, scroll on for a handpicked edit of my favorite options. You’ll discover chic pieces from brands like Reformation, Banana Republic, and more.
Shop the Best Stirrup Leggings
Reformation
Needle Legging
Drenched in a wintry white hue, Reformation’s Needle Leggings will set you apart from the rest.
Gap
High Rise Double Knit Stirrup Pants
Banana Republic
Everywhere Ponte Stirrup Legging
As the name suggests, Banana Republic’s Everywhere Ponte Stirrup Leggings can indeed be worn everywhere. During the week, I’d style these pants with a chunky cardigan and boots, then dress them up with a deep-V blazer and slingbacks for the weekend.
Seroya
Kelsey Stirrup Legging
Theory’s stretchy stirrups are so comfortable, they’ll rival your favorite pair of cozy sweatpants.
Wardrobe.NYC
Lace Stirrup Leggings
Splits59
River High Waist Airweight Stirrup Legging
Splits59’s River High Waist Airweight Stirrup Leggings are super breathable, so they’re great for those on-the-go moments. Slip into these for your next errand run.
Guest in Residence
Speed Skate Button-Embellished Striped Ribbed Merino Wool-Blend Stirrup Leggings
These aren’t your ordinary pair of stirrups: Look closely, and you’ll notice Guest in Residence’s Speed Skate pants are stitched with charming buttons.
Skims
High Waist Stirrup Leggings
If you’re searching for a high-waisted pair of stirrup leggings, Skims has you covered in sizes XS to 4X.
Zara
Nylon Stirrup Leggings
Not in the mood to pay a pretty penny for stirrups? Consider this $40 pair from Zara.
Helsa
Hayleigh Stirrup Pant
I can totally see myself wearing Helsa’s Hayleigh pants with a denim jacket and trendy heels, à la Katie Holmes.
Commando
Faux Leather Stirrup Legging
Round out your rotation of going-out outfits with these leather leggings. Complete the look with a collarless coat and pointy pumps for a polished getup that you’ll want to wear on repeat.
Athleta
Transcend High Rise Stirrup Legging
Tibi
Compact Ultra Stretch Knit Stirrup Leggings
Tibi’s Compact Ultra Stretch Knit Stirrup Leggings debuted on the brand’s Spring 2025 runway. Since then, these designer pants have been in high demand. Snag them now, before it’s too late!