Feb 26, 2014

Editor's Best Tips On How to Wear Wide-Leg Pants

by Kat Collings

Skinny pants have held court for years now, and while a slim leg will never go out of style, I’m making the case for a pant with a little more drama this spring. The wide-leg trouser may seem like an intimidating trend (how in the world could massive amounts of fabric be flattering?) especially if you’re on the shorter side like myself. But I have a few key secrets to pulling it off with confidence, and I’m excited to share. Hint: it’s all about the shoe.

Look 1: Cocktail Party

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Who What Wear

I stand by the rule that you can wear anything to a cocktail party, even office staples like a pair of wide-leg trousers, if you accessorize the right way. It’s all about swapping out your subtle daytime jewelry for statement pieces—the more the merrier!

What I Wore:
H&M Top ($40, 855.466.7467); H&M Wide Pants ($60); Tory Burch Aimee Pumps ($421); Tila March Romy Clutch ($595, available in black); Dannijo Kendall Earrings ($495); Dannijo Genevieve Cuff ($495, 646.755.8909), Dannijo Riggs Bracelet ($295); Lizzie Fortunato Jewels Sacred Valley Peach Bracelet ($188); Tiffany Chou 44th + 9th Bracelet ($66).

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Who What Wear

It wouldn’t be a cocktail ensemble without at least one element of allure. This off-the-shoulder button-down is an unexpected way to show a little skin.

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Who What Wear

A delightful mix of jewel-encrusted bangles paired with one large statement cuff ensures the look is evening-appropriate.

Look 2: Office

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Who What Wear

When you think of office basics—wide-leg trousers, button-down shirts, tailored vests—your eyes most likely glaze over with boredom. However, there are ways to inject a little personality into your look while remaining completely polished: think charming accessories (viva the pocket square!) and subtle mixed prints.

What I Wore:
Gap New Tailored Dot Shirt ($50) in Optic White; April, May Quest Mix Vest ($440,33.0.9.67.25.78.60); H&M Wide Pants ($60); AllSaints Kara Pump Heel ($335); Tory Burch 797 Medium Satchel ($575) in Natural Raffia/Natural Snake; Massimo Dutti Basic Leather Belt ($56, 212.371.2555) in Black; Sarah Chloe Lana Oval Signet Ring ($98); O’Harrow Clothiers Japanese Family Crest Pocket Square ($32, similar style here).

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Who What Wear

Wearing a shoe with an exposed top of foot is a must for pulling off a voluminous trouser. It elongates the leg, which is key, especially for petite girls like me!

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Who What Wear

From afar my outfit looks as if it’s comprised of solid colors, but up close the subtle pattern mix takes the outfit to the next level. You wouldn’t think a polka dot shirt would go with a pinstripe and plaid vest, but it completely works when limited to a neutral palette.

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Who What Wear

A classic signet ring is a polished touch that subtly reminds colleagues and clients of your name.