A sleek fit: Leggings are back!

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They're baaack!

Leggings, those skinny, stretchy leg coverings from the '80s --- think "Flashdance" --- are taking a strong stand for fall. This time around, they've moved beyond activewear to casual weekend brunches, the office and after 5 events.

"Fall is all about fresh shapes and new proportions," said Arlene Goldstein, fashion director of Parisian stores. "It's volume on top, skinny on the bottom, and leggings help create that new proportion. It's a look that is modern and wearable."

For Gregg Andrews, a Nordstrom fashion director, leggings are all about layering. "You will wear them under dresses and coats, tunic-length tops and oversize cardigans," he said.

A black pair is the most flattering on the majority of bodies since it creates a long, lean silhouette. Brown is another option, along with fuchsia and red or even striped patterns. But beware: You will need legs like model Heidi Klum to wear offbeat shades and patterns. And they aren't nearly as versatile as a neutral pair.

Leggings primarily come in three lengths:

Ankle-length ones --- also known as footless tights --- stop right above the ankles. Wear them with flats, a stiletto or a wedge heel. Many tops work, including knee-length dresses and jackets, oversize shirts and tunic sweaters.

Midcalf-length croppers or capris look best with little heels, flats or wedges. Choose tops ranging from miniskirts to knee-length dresses and shirts.

Knee-length leggings stop right below the knee and look best with high heels. Of all legging lengths, these might be the most difficult to wear. Good calves are critical. Choose tops that stop at midthigh.

Women of all ages can wear leggings. "You simply have to know your limitations," said Frann Beato, a personal shopper at Macy's in Lenox Square. "For an older woman, I think leggings look great with long skirts and flats. Or pair them with a great tunic sweater and a pair of boots. Just remember, you don't want to look like your daughter."

Parisian's Goldstein agrees. "I recently bought a gray knit tunic that stops right above my knees, to wear with leggings and a platform pump," she said. "The top covers a multitude of sins. I bought it a size bigger than normal because I did not want it to be too clingy.

"My daughter, who is in her 20s, would buy the same top to wear with leggings and a ballet flat. She will be absolutely unconcerned about 'cling' and look fabulous!

"Creating a look is more about attitude than age."