What to Wear with Black Pants

A few pairs of black pants in your closet are essential to have. You can wear them with pretty much anything, whether you're trying to be as casual as possible or you need to get dressed up for work. There are so many different styles to explore, from leggings and sweatpants to jeans are more formal slacks. No matter where you're going and what you're doing, a pair of black pants can be the beginning of any outfit. But what should you be wearing with your black pants? It all depends on the style of the pants you're wearing.

What to Wear with Black Jeans

Everyone has their preferences for jeans. But whatever fit you like, having a black pair in your closet is a good idea. They can look slightly more formal, and you can even get away with pretending that they're not jeans if you need to. There's a lot that you can do with a pair of black jeans, from keeping it casual to dressing them up.

The simplest, easiest option is to wear a white T-shirt or another white top with your black jeans. Or if you want to go with black on black, try that too. A graphic tee can add some fun to a more casual look or if you want to stick to basics, stay simple with a tank top and a pair of black shoes (whether sneakers, heels, or something else).

Making a pair of black jeans more formal is easily done by pairing them with a blouse or button-through shirt. The right coat or jacket can lift up your black jeans too, so try wearing them with a glamorous trench or a tailored blazer. Other jacket ideas that look good are leather jackets and denim jackets - try blue denim on black denim for something a little different.

Layering is also a great option when you're putting together an outfit with black jeans. You can have fun with your clothes and accessories, from cardigans and jackets to scarves, shawls and other extra layers.

What to Wear with Black Leggings

A pair of black leggings not only look good, but they're super comfortable too. Why wear pants that have no give when you can wear a pair of stretchy black leggings that almost make you feel like you're not wearing anything? Black leggings are a more casual option, but it is possible to dress them up too, so they're not just for lounging at home. They're great to wear with a dress or skirt, but can easily be paired with anything from a long-line shirt or sweater to a comfy T-shirt.

When you're thinking about what to wear with black leggings, start with the easiest options. A T-shirt is the easiest choice, whether you're heading to the gym, hanging out with friends, or just lounging at home. You can choose a fitted tee, but some of the best tees to wear with black leggings are a slightly looser, comfier fit. You can tuck it in or leave it hanging out for some different silhouettes.

Another comfy, casual option is to wear your black leggings with a hoodie or sweater. An oversized sweater can look good with a fitted pair of leggings, whether to choose to double up in black or try another color.

Use your black leggings as a stand-in for pants, especially if you're wearing jean leggings. These hybrid, stretchy jeans fit super close but have an ambiguous look of not-quite-leggings and not-quite jeans. They can look great worn as a skinny black pant, especially under a long coat or cardigan.

Leather leggings are also an awesome option for this, usually a little less stretchy, with a bit more structure. When choosing what to wear with leather leggings, try a tunic-length sweater or a longer jacket. Keep it neutral or add a pop of color with your top, and try some killer black boots of any length or a pair of killer heels, either in black or a contrasting color.

Black leggings can work under a skirt or dress too. They're a warmer option instead of tights, pantyhose or stockings, and it can be an excellent way of layering. Your leggings don't have to be the star of the show, and can just be an accessory to help you stay warm.

As for what shoes to wear with black leggings, it depends on what else you're wearing. You could put on some fancy heels if you want to add some pizzazz to your outfit, or you might wear some boots for more warmth and a less delicate look. A pair of sneakers or some flats could work for a casual look too. You might go for black shoes, but you can also try a contrasting white or experiment with different colors.

What to Wear with Black Sweatpants

There can be some crossover with leggings, sweatpants, and yoga pants. They're all comfy options that are perfect for a casual outfit. Although, it's a little more difficult to dress up sweatpants compared to leggings.

Of course, the classic way to wear sweatpants is with a sweater on top. A matching set does have the potential to look a little cheesy, but it all depends on how you wear it. A zip-up sweater or hoodie left open could be worn with a bralette or crop top underneath. A sturdy pair of sneakers and a high ponytail can make it look like you're going to the gym (even if you're just being lazy at home). Make the most of the athleisure look and stay comfy and casual.

But you don't have to be all matchy with your black sweatpants. There are plenty of other ways to wear them. Put on a chunky knit sweater or a long puffer coat, or maybe try them with a T-shirt and an aviator jacket, topped off with a pair of sunglasses and some stompy boots. Black sweatpants can be pretty understated, but that gives you plenty of room to make your outfit eye-catching in other ways. Add some flashy gold or silver or some bright colors or patterns, or layer up some different items. Choose some accessories to make your outfit pop too, whether it's a pair of red heels or a bright purse.

What to Wear with Slim Black Pants

A classic pair of slim black paints can make you look amazing without much effort. For a sleek look that makes you feel good, a solid color blouse with a tailored blazer and a pair of heels can get you ready for work, for an evening out just for lunch with friends. If you want to dress them down, switching out the blouse for something slightly more casual and the blazer for a cardigan can help you feel a bit more relaxed. Swap the heels for some flats if you'd rather feel lighter on your feet.

You can go for different lengths with your slim black pants too. A pair of capris will show a little more skin, and they give you the chance to show off your shoes or even your socks. Some high-rise or high-waisted pants could be worn with a tucked-in top or a crop top. Layer up with some long layers to build on your outfit some more.

What to Wear with Wide-leg/Flared Black Pants

Skinny pants are good, but sometimes you want a bit more flair to your outfit. A pair of high-waisted, wide-legged pants with a vintage look, some flared, or bootcut pants or even a pair of flowing culottes could become part of your wardrobe too. Like other black pants, you can style them in lots of different ways.

Create a relaxed, 1970s style vibe with a pair of flares, a Western-inspired shirt and a wide-brimmed hat to carefully balance different styles and shapes. Try a pair of culottes for a summery vibe when you want to fake wearing a skirt. Try matching them with a white tank top to let the culottes speak for themselves, and add a few accessories like long necklaces and a pair of shades. Some wide, floor-length black pants, especially with a high waist, are great for creating a vintage look. Wear them with a flowing white blouse and your favorite red lipstick.

What Color Shoes to Wear with Black Pants

One dilemma that some people have is what color shoes to wear with their black pants. You can always play it safe and stick to black, but what if you want to experiment with some different colors? To start branching out a little, you might go for gray or maybe a dark green or blue for something a little different, but there are plenty of other options. Some people will tell you not to wear certain bright colors with black pants, but it's really up to you what you think looks good. Bright colors can look amazing and really make your shoes pop.

There are so many ways you can style black pants and lots of styles of black pants you can choose from too. Experiment and have fun to find what you think looks good.