Layers, cozy knits, outerwear — there’s a reason autumn is a season fashion-lovers relish. As the summer heat dissipates and the leaves turn kaleidoscopic, we can’t wait to unfurl our sweater collection and add some new seasonal staples to the mix.
Back by popular demand (and new-and-improved), we’re launching the ultimate fall wardrobe essential: the Papaya Sculpt Legging. The leggings first made Knix history in 2020 when they garnered a waitlist of 30K and sold out within minutes.
The sartorial musings of celebrity stylist Erica Wark were at work behind the scenes of our recent street style-inspired shoot. Effortless and fabulous in equal measures, Erica’s styling prowess proved what we know to be true: faux leather leggings are back in a big, bad way.
On the topic of styling the shoot, Erica says “I wanted to create looks that were incredibly wearable where you could look at a photo and be like, Oh, you know what? I have similar pieces in my closet that I can use to recreate this look.”
The stylist was gushing with fall fashion tips when we chatted over Zoom. So, how many ways can one style a pair of leggings? Let's find out.
Oversized Everything
Blazers, sweaters, outerwear, you name it and it will look good oversized with leggings. “I love an oversized moment,” says Erica. An oversized top will contrast a pair of sleek, sculpted leggings.
The Papaya Sculpt Leggings have bonded rear panels that lift and shape (yes, they’ll make the booty pop) and a compressed waistband that pairs impeccably with slouchy sweaters and billowy coats.
Erica recommends reaching for a menswear-style blazer or an oversized dress shirt for a classic Oxford varsity style. Outerwear is also essential. “It’s great to invest in a beautiful coat,” she says. “A long wool coat can go with anything, like an elevated pair of leggings.”
Don’t Forget Footwear
When it comes to styling footwear, the options are virtually endless — but Erica lights up talking about loafers. “I’m a huge fan of the loafer for this season,” she says. “It’s such a fun, trendy piece and a modern take on an 80s vibe.”
That, however, doesn’t mean she’s forgoing the practicality (and fashion merits) of a solid pair of sneakers. “I’m so glad sneakers are still having a moment,” she tells us. “Especially as a new mom who loves to go for a walk, but they also just look so chic with a pair of leggings.”
As do a pair of chunky leather boots or a pair of suede booties, which can take an athleisure day-look to a stylish nighttime look in a flash. Never underestimate the power of a pair of kicks.
Accessorize
For Erica, paparazzi-worthy street style is all about exuding confidence. “It’s knowing and understanding your personal style,” she says. So often it’s accessories that we hang onto longest and that most harness our personal style.
With that, it’s time to flaunt your vintage handbag or sunnies and your grandmother’s pearls. “There’s certain things that really never go out of style and always look timeless and amazing,” according to Erica. It’s those small touches that can elevate an already stellar wardrobe and that, in Erica’s words, make you “feel fantastic when you leave your house.”
Embrace the Crop
The crop trend (thankfully) lives to see another season of fashion. With its ultra-high waisted fit and compressed waistband, the Papaya Sculpt Legging is ideal for cropped tops and sweaters.
You can also play with shapes and lengths by pairing a cropped shirt with an ultra-long cardigan, which also happens to be a great way to transition your summer wardrobe into winter. Whatever the time of year, Erica recommends investing in wardrobe staples that fit your lifestyle.
“Invest in pieces you can pretty much wear year round, that never go out of style and are timeless,” she says. “Wardrobe staples are different for every person and lifestyle.”
Cozy Knits
There’s nothing like a cozy cable knit sweater to break up the body-hugging and high-shine of the Papaya Sculpt Legging. As a stylist, Erica loves getting playful with different textures, like harmonizing chunky wool and faux leather for a comfy look that retains its chic-ness.
“I also love sweater dresses,” she says. With a few simple tricks, like a belt, its shape can also be transformed.
At some point during our call, Erica and I both admit to currently wearing leggings. “They’re just so incredibly versatile and comfortable and flattering.” It’s no mystery they’re such an enduring fashion staple.