Would Men's Leggings (Meggings) Become a Fashion Staple in Everyday Life?
I live in Phoenix, an area that is warm for a significant portion of the year. In the cooler early mornings or during what is colloquially known as the "winter months," I have always turned to leggings as a comfy and convenient choice. Initially, I was self-conscious about wearing them in public, but shopping in leggings without any comments from peers helped me overcome my hesitation. Now, I wear them every single cool day IMHO.
What Are Meggings?
Meggings, or men's leggings, are actually just a slang term for leggings that are tailored for men. They are not significantly different from women's leggings, aside from being designed to fit a male figure. The term was created as a way to distinguish men's leggings from women's when the trend started becoming popular among men. However, the term itself was likely more about creating a derogatory contrast rather than highlighting any significant differences in the fabric or design.
Men's Leggings as a Fashion Trend
Meggings, much like women's leggings, are often associated with a specific body type that can make them a challenging choice for the average man. While leggings can be a comfortable and versatile option for exercise and outdoor physical activities, they can look less flattering on someone with an average or larger-than-average body build. This is because the snug fabric can sometimes emphasize imperfections, making the garment less suitable as everyday wear.
Why Men's Leggings Stuggle in Everyday Wear
One of the biggest obstacles when it comes to transitioning men's leggings from niche wear to everyday street style is the impracticality of the garment. Men's leggings often lack necessary features such as pockets, which can be crucial for carrying essentials like wallets, phones, or wallets with a daily routine. This absence of pockets can be inconvenient for daily activities, especially for those who are frequently on the go.
For me, as someone who spends a lot of time doing outdoor work and errands around the house and vehicles, leggings would quickly become unsuitable. Whether it's tending to grounds, fixing things around the home, or even running errands at stores, the likelihood of tearing or stains is high. This makes it impractical for most day-to-day activities.
Alternatives to Men's Leggings
Instead of leggings, men often opt for other types of clothing that can be more practical for daily wear. For instance, biker shorts or sweatpants provide a similar comfort level while still being more appropriate for a variety of situations. Biker shorts, in particular, are well-suited for warmer weather but offer the same level of comfort and flexibility as leggings. Sweatpants, another popular option, provide pockets and extra room for movement, making them a more versatile choice for daily life.
Conclusion
While the idea of meggings can be appealing, the practicality and fit are significant factors that prevent them from becoming a true fashion staple in everyday wear for most men. The lack of pockets and the potential for discomfort with an average or larger body type are key reasons why this trend remains more of a niche choice. If we can find a way to make leggings more practical, more men might give them a try, but for now, they remain a niche garment for those who are body-conscious and comfortable with a more minimalist wardrobe.