I thought I’d surely seen it all when Prada and Marc Jacobs featured unwearably sheer trousers and dresses in their Spring 2008 collections, coined “Shants” and “Shresses,” respectively.  However, the latest hardball in pants-wear development has once again left many a  confused Fashionista scratching her head: Jeggings (yes, you heard me correctly), is the love child of jeans and leggings — a stretchy cotton-poly-lycra blend that hit the runway last summer and transitioned easily into the Fall 2009 collections of such designers as J Brand, Rich & Skinny, and Seven for all Mankind.

This latest spin-off  looks like denim without the usual weight and stiffness; indeed, jeggings are surprisingly comfortable and flattering, made in a variety of washes from acid to black and often embellished with zippers or an ankle scrunch. Dressier than leggings and more comfortable than jeans, jeggings look great paired with simple V-necks  and flats, tunics, dressy tank tops, or sweaters and chunky boots.

While some sources have called jeggings a “don’t” (I’m looking at you, New York Magazine) they have been given the kiss of approval from celebrities such as Beyonce, who paired her this summer with a chic white blazer, Sienna Miller, Mischa Barton, and even Ciara, who rocked bleached jeggings to a red carpet event. And with such comfort and versatility, it’s a small wonder they’ve been flying off the racks at department stores and boutiques across the globe.

As always, time will tell in if the latest fashion revolution is here to stay, but until then, readers, keep your boring black leggings on the back burner and experience for yourself the new simple, stretchy chic jeggings has to offer. The world of denim may never be the same.

-LH