The style, defined by its fitted leg and elasticated strap that sits underneath the foot, has been gathering momentum throughout 2026. British Vogue has highlighted the return of the silhouette, with Burç Akyol and Jil Sander among the designers styling stirrup leggings as part of a more polished, tailored wardrobe.

The high street is also getting behind the trend. Zara’s ZW Collection Fuseau Trousers are priced at £36, while H&M offers a £20 crease-front version. At the premium end, The Frankie Shop’s stirrup leggings retail for £150, with Leset at £200 and Saint Laurent at £638.

For retailers, the appeal is in the versatility. Rather than being confined to an athleisure wardrobe, the AW26 iteration is being positioned as a smarter alternative to tailored trousers. Jil Sander paired the silhouette with collarless jackets and low heels, while Burç Akyol styled stirrups beneath asymmetric trenches and sharp slingbacks.

On the high street, the styling possibilities are equally broad. A pair of black stirrups can be worn with an oversized blazer and pointed heels for a polished office-to-evening look, or dressed down with a chunky knit and loafers. Ballet flats, Mary Janes and knee-high boots also work particularly well, with the strap adding a subtle detail that distinguishes the silhouette from a standard legging.

The trend also taps into AW26’s wider equestrian influence. British Vogue has identified riding-inspired dressing as a key trouser direction for 2026, with everything from stirrup leggings to jodhpurs appearing across the market.

For shoppers, the appeal is simple: the comfort and stretch of a legging, but with a more considered, fashion-led finish. After several seasons dominated by wide-leg and barrel silhouettes, the return of the close-fitting trouser offers a noticeably sharper proportion.