Last week I did a roundup of this season's essential wide leg pants, with some ideas on how to style them. But of course actions speak louder than words, so I thought I ought to show you how I wear them myself! They're not the easiest closet item to figure out, but once you get a handle on how to make them work for you, they just might become the highlight of your fall wardrobe.
My biggest piece of advice when it comes to the wide leg pant is this: Embrace your inner high school English teacher! These pants do have a certain allure, but the feeling of being swathed in so much material when you're used to slimmer silhouettes does take some getting used to. So if you can accept that no matter which pair you choose, and no matter which pieces you wear them with, a part of you will always feel like you should be leading a classroom discussion on Lord of the Flies…well, you're already ahead of the game.
Next, keep in mind that even more than usual, fit and construction matter. One woman's high-rise is another's camel toe, so don't be surprised if you have to try several pairs from different stores to find your perfect cut. The same goes for width and inseam. Sample everything from a slightly-wider-than-usual trouser to a billowy harem pant, and from cropped at the ankle to floor dusting. As for material, it's worth paying a little more for something that drapes just right and that moves fluidly as you walk. You want to feel like you still have a figure, after all!
Now remember what I said about embracing your inner English teacher? Stick with that as you build outfits around your wide leg pants. If you go too tight up top it will not only look incongruous, it will create a bottom-heavy effect. Try swingy boatneck sweaters or flowy button downs that emphasize subtle sexy bits like your collarbone and wrists. As for accessories I like 'em with personality so they don't get lost amongst the pants. Here I went with leopard slip-on sneakers to match the casual vibe of my boxy sweatshirt but I've seen nifty heels work too (case in point). Finally, be sure to have fun if you decide to try this style. Because above all, it's only fashion, and it should make you feel fab!
Outfit Details: Wide Leg Pants, Oska. Boxy Sweatshirt Top, Heidi Merrick. Leopard Slip-On Sneakers, Steve Madden. Red Leather Clutch, Cuyana. Oversized Sunglasses, TOMS. Photos: Thank you to the wonderful and talented Mercie Ghimire for shooting these images!
Love the drape of your trousers! And great jump in the last photograph! I always team my culottes with something narrow on top, to balance out the width of the trousers. I think that creates the best silhouette. Wearing them with heels is also a good trick, as the width and shorter length of the trousers will make you appear shorter than you are. Not that I have a problem with that… 😉