Wearing a short dress can be a fashionable and fun choice, but sometimes you may want to cover your legs while maintaining style and comfort. Whether it’s for modesty, warmth, or simply adding a creative layer to your outfit, there are many ways to cover your legs without compromising on style. This guide will explore what to wear under a short dress to cover legs, providing tips and options for different occasions and styles.

1. Leggings: A Classic and Comfortable Choice

One of the most versatile and popular options for covering your legs under a short dress is leggings. They come in various materials, colors, and styles, making them an easy addition to almost any outfit.

1.1. Full-Length Leggings

Full-length leggings are a practical and stylish option for cooler weather. Made from fabrics like cotton, polyester, or spandex, they provide coverage while allowing freedom of movement. Black leggings are a wardrobe staple, but you can also experiment with other colors or patterns to add a playful touch to your outfit.

1.2. Capri Leggings

Capri leggings are shorter than full-length leggings, typically ending just below the knee or mid-calf. They are a great option for warmer months, offering a balance between coverage and breathability. Capri leggings are perfect for casual daywear, especially when paired with a short, flowy dress.

1.3. Leather Leggings

For a more daring and edgy look, leather leggings can elevate a simple short dress. They provide full coverage while adding a chic, stylish element to your ensemble. Leather leggings are ideal for night outings or when you want to add a fashionable statement to your attire.

2. Tights: Elegant and Modest

Tights are another excellent way to cover your legs while wearing a short dress. They offer a sleek and elegant look, making them suitable for formal and casual settings alike.

2.1. Sheer Tights

Sheer tights provide a subtle layer of coverage that allows your legs to show through slightly. These are perfect for adding a touch of sophistication without overwhelming the outfit. Sheer tights in neutral tones like black, nude, or tan work well for both day and evening wear.

2.2. Opaque Tights

Opaque tights offer fuller coverage and are ideal for colder weather. They come in various colors, allowing you to either match your tights with your dress or opt for a contrasting color to make a statement. Opaque tights are great for both professional and casual looks, especially when paired with short skirts or dresses.

2.3. Patterned Tights

If you want to add some fun to your look, patterned tights are a playful option. From polka dots to lace designs, patterned tights can enhance the overall aesthetic of your outfit while still providing coverage. They are a perfect addition for a more fashion-forward or creative look.

3. Stockings: Classic and Feminine

For a timeless and feminine solution, stockings can be worn under short dresses to cover your legs. Stockings are available in both sheer and opaque styles and offer a delicate, polished appearance.

3.1. Thigh-High Stockings

Thigh-high stockings are a bold yet elegant option. They are designed to stay up without the need for a garter, offering coverage without feeling restrictive. These are particularly suitable for formal occasions or when you want to add a vintage touch to your outfit.

3.2. Knee-High Stockings

Knee-high stockings provide moderate coverage while keeping your legs partially visible. These are a comfortable and stylish choice for spring or autumn, offering warmth and coverage without being too overwhelming. Pair them with boots for a chic, layered look.

4. Pants or Trousers: Trendy and Practical

Wearing pants or trousers under a short dress is a more modern and fashion-forward option. This combination can create a unique and trendy look, especially when done with the right fabrics and styles.

4.1. Skinny Jeans

Pairing a short dress with skinny jeans creates a sleek and casual outfit. Skinny jeans provide full coverage and are a practical choice for daywear. Opt for denim in classic colors like black or blue to keep the look balanced and stylish.

4.2. Cropped Pants

Cropped pants are another trendy option to wear under a short dress. They provide moderate leg coverage while still maintaining a stylish silhouette. Whether you choose a straight-leg or wide-leg design, cropped pants can add a contemporary feel to your outfit.

4.3. Cigarette Pants

For a more sophisticated look, try pairing your short dress with cigarette pants. These slim-fit pants offer a tailored appearance, making them a perfect choice for professional settings or semi-formal occasions. Choose neutral or muted tones for a polished, put-together look.

5. Long Boots: Fashionable and Functional

If you’re looking for a stylish way to cover your legs while adding some height, long boots are the answer. They can be worn with or without additional layers like leggings or tights, offering a chic, elongated look to your legs.

5.1. Over-the-Knee Boots

Over-the-knee boots provide full leg coverage while keeping you warm and stylish. These boots pair beautifully with short dresses, creating a balanced look that is both fashionable and functional. Suede or leather boots are ideal choices for adding texture to your outfit.

5.2. Knee-High Boots

Knee-high boots offer a more modest option while still providing significant leg coverage. They are perfect for cooler weather and can be styled with casual or dressy outfits. Knee-high boots, especially in neutral tones like black or brown, are versatile and can be worn with a variety of short dress styles.

6. Maxi Skirts or Long Slip: Layering for Modesty

Another way to cover your legs under a short dress is by layering with a maxi skirt or a long slip. This adds an extra layer of fabric, providing full leg coverage while keeping the overall look stylish.

6.1. Maxi Skirt

Wearing a maxi skirt under a short dress creates a modest, boho-chic vibe. The long skirt adds fluidity and movement to your outfit, making it perfect for casual or beach outings. Choose a skirt in lightweight fabrics like cotton or chiffon for a breezy and effortless look.

6.2. Long Slip

A long slip is another excellent option for layering under a short dress. This lightweight, fitted garment offers full coverage without adding bulk, making it a comfortable and modest choice. Long slips are ideal for when you want a smooth silhouette under your dress.

7. Palazzo Pants: Flowy and Elegant

For a more flowy and comfortable option, you can wear palazzo pants under a short dress. Palazzo pants are wide-legged and made from lightweight fabrics, making them a perfect choice for hot weather while offering full leg coverage.

7.1. Printed Palazzo Pants

If you want to add some flair to your outfit, opt for printed palazzo pants. These can add a pop of color or pattern to your ensemble, enhancing the overall aesthetic of your short dress. This combination works well for casual outings or summer events.

7.2. Solid Palazzo Pants

For a more formal look, choose solid-colored palazzo pants in neutral tones. These pants can provide a polished and elegant finish to your outfit, making them ideal for professional or semi-formal occasions.

8. Leg Warmers: Cozy and Stylish

For a casual and cozy look, consider wearing leg warmers under your short dress. They provide warmth and can add a trendy touch to your outfit. Leg warmers are great for cooler months and can be paired with tights or leggings for added coverage.

9. Choosing the Right Option for You

When deciding what to wear under a short dress to cover legs, consider factors like the occasion, weather, and personal style. Whether you choose leggings, tights, boots, or pants, the key is to find an option that makes you feel comfortable and confident while complementing your short dress.

Conclusion

There are many stylish and practical ways to cover your legs while wearing a short dress. From leggings and tights to long boots and palazzo pants, the options are diverse, ensuring you can maintain your style without compromising on modesty or comfort. Whether for casual wear or formal occasions, these solutions offer a range of ways to enhance your outfit and provide the coverage you need.