Photo: Patrick Andersson

A: Yes to leggings—comfortable, cool-looking, body-friendly—but no to the spandex Olivia Newton-John showed off in Grease. These four rules can help guide women who want to adopt this ongoing trend:

• Thick, unshiny fabrics like double knits don't show bulges.
• Layering is crucial. Think of leggings as tights rather than pants; put them under skirts, dresses, or tunics.
• Longer tops (at least to midthigh) camouflage tush, stomach, and hips.
• Leggings can look tacky with the wrong footwear. I prefer flats, boots, or a low heel.

Get it right: 5 ways to wear leggings