Fall Style Essential: The Wide Leg Pant

There's something about wearing ultra wide leg pants that makes you feels very avant-garde. I remember my first pair of menswear-inspired trousers. I was a junior in high school, when low-rise bootcut jeans were de rigeur, and I begged my mother to buy me a pair of navy wool sailor pants from J. Crew. They came complete with a paneled waist and a double row of buttons up the front, and they made me feel like I was pushing the fashion envelope in a major way. (Though why I paired them with hiking shoes, I still can't explain.)

Each fall seems to see a resurgence of the menswear trend, which I guess makes it less of a trend and more of a seasonal fashion staple. This year's trouser styles, however, seem more voluminous than ever—which I'm not sure makes them easier or harder to wear. With their broad pleats and their drapey fabrics, I question how practical and flattering they are for most of us gals. Yet on those who can pull them off, they're quite striking indeed. 

Still, though, perhaps a pair of wide leg pants is at least worth a try? I have a feeling that with enough searching, every body type can find one that's right for her. Beanpoles can of course saunter down the street in the high-waisted, extra long styles, while those of us with hips and thighs might try a forgiving stretch silk that tapers a little at the ankle. An Annie Hall blazer completes the look, but a v-neck tee has its own simple appeal too. I'm now determined to hit the shops and give these styles a try in person, but this time around I'm going to leave the hiking shoes at home!

P.S. More fall outfit inspiration over on my Pinterest! Shopping Guide: 1. Checked Wool Trouser 2. Windowpane Check Trouser 3. Pink Cropped Trousers 4. Burgundy Wide Leg Trouser 5. Black Silk Trousers 6. Striped Wide Leg Pant 7. Cuffed Navy Trousers Images: 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7.