12 pairs of black leggings under $50 that are far from basic

If there were ever just one true activewear wardrobe staple, it would have to be black leggings, IMO. The beauty of them lies in their versatility: You can dress them up (even make them work appropriate) or down. Pairs designed with even the most performance-oriented fabrics and sweat-wicking detailing can look incredibly chic when styled with a classic sweater-and-boots combo. Or simply use them as the fashion gods intended—to work out.

The one catch? Leggings can be super-expensive these days, with seemingly every fashion designer rolling out activewear and athleisure capsules. But they don’t have to have a crazy price tag to look and feel amazing. In fact, some of the best black options are under $50—and still have cool-girl details that appear pricey without doing major wallet damage.

Scroll down to shop 12 pairs with cut-outs, bold logos, mesh details, and more.

Not-so-basic black leggings

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Victoria's Secret VS Sport Slit Knee Anytime Legging

$45

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H&M Yoga Tights Shaping Waist

$30

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Adidas Originals AdiColor Three-Stripe Leggings

$35

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Old Navy Mid-Rise Textured-Print Compression Leggings

$30

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C9 Champion Cold Weather Color Blocked Run Tight Leggings

$40

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Forever 21 Active Keep Going Leggings

$20

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New Look Sports Fishnet Leggings

$29

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Old Navy Mid-Rise 7/8-Length Compression Leggings

$29

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JoyLab High Waist Color Block Leggings

$30

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Forever21 Active Mesh Panel Leggings

$18

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Aerie Play High Waisted Pocket Leggings

$30

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Nike Just Do It Leggings

$40

Add even more to your fitness fashion wardrobe with one of these black velvet pieces or some high-vibe crystal jewelry.