A Look Back: The Journey of Leggings
Leggings (or tights) have evolved quite a bit from their humble beginnings in Medieval Europe. Originally called ‘trews’ in 14th century Scotland, these form-fitting garments were worn by men for warmth and function. By the Renaissance, they had transformed into ‘hose,’ a precursor to the leggings we know today.
Through the 18th and 19th centuries, both men and women wore variations of leggings, with women’s ‘pantalettes’ adding a decorative touch. But the modern leggings revolution truly began in the 1950s with the invention of spandex, thanks to American chemist Joseph Shivers. This innovation paved the way for the stretchy, flexible leggings we love.
From the disco pants of the 1970s to Jane Fonda’s workout gear in the 1980s, leggings have continuously evolved to become a wardrobe staple.
Where We Are Today
In the 21st century, tights are everywhere. Whether you’re heading to the gym, running errands, or just lounging, they offer style and comfort in one. But as we embrace leggings as a wardrobe staple, it's essential to think about their environmental impact. The fashion industry is a major contributor to waste and pollution, and most tights made from unrecycled (virgin) plastics are part of the problem.
Tips for Sustainable Leggings
- Choose Durability: Invest in quality leggings that will last. The longer they endure, the less waste we create.
- Look at Materials: Brands using recycled fabrics help reduce the environmental toll of activewear production by reducing the amount of new plastic produced.
- Recycle Old Pairs: Some brands, like Earthletica, are exploring ways to recycle at the end of garment life. We partner with Upparel to recycled and earn future discounts. Keep an eye out for programs that support circular fashion.
