Most of us have been wearing skinnies for years but it could be time for a re-think. The current trend is for a more relaxed, straight or wide-leg jean/trouser and the stand-out style for summer is going to be the cargo pant. As part of this more relaxed approach, a drawstring/elasticated waists is another key feature this season. So will this work for you? That really comes down to a combination of your style personality, stature and shape.
Style Personality
Personally, as a Classic/ City Chic style personality I will not be wearing cargo pants and an elasticated waist holds no appeal to me whatsoever. I have already invested in tailored cream wider leg trousers though that I will wear with fitted tops and heels. Naturals, on the other hand, will love the comfy waistband, slouchy fit and all the useful pockets that drawstring waisted cargo pants have to offer.
Unlike cargo pants, straight and wide-leg trousers can work well for pretty much every style personality. For example, Romantics may want to team their wide-legs with a pretty blouse and heels, Classics may go for a stripey Breton, blazer and loafer, and Naturals will feel good in wide-legs jeans or linen trousers with a tee shirt and trainers.
Shape & Scale
The new wider leg works for most shapes too. Whereas skinnies grip the contours of your leg and are actually quite unforgiving, a relaxed fit can skim heavy thighs and calves and can create a nice leg lengthening effect. They also have the advantage of being cooler to wear in hot weather.
To look your best in wider fit trousers, it’s good to balance them with a fairly fitted top half. If you have a neat waist, you might even want to consider tucking your top in as this will lengthen the look of your legs.
An elasticated/drawstring waist can be a good option if you’re an oval body shape and carry your weight round your middle as it makes finding trousers that fit so much easier. If this is the case for you, a longer line top which covers the waist band will keep things looking chic and streamlined.
Petites are generally best in styles that don’t overwhelm their frame so, if you’re short (or have proportionally short legs) opt for a relaxed straight leg, or boot cut or a moderately wide leg rather than anything too extreme which could make you look a little squat. A floor skimming length teamed with heels is the ultimate leg lengthener.
If you’re tall, all options are open to you, so as well as being able to embrace very wide trousers such as those pictured, you might like to try a cropped wide-leg trouser. These are great for highlighting slim ankles and/or fab shoes.
Even if you don’t think you’re ready to ditch your beloved skinnies, I urge you to at least try on a few of the more relaxed fits. You may surprise yourself and find you like them!
For inspiration, check out my latest catalogue.