Back for another season, wide-leg pants are easily the most versatile pants of the now. Wide-leg pants (aka palazzo pants) are pants that are fitted at the waist and relaxed from the hip throughout the entire leg. There are a few variations, some with a more fitted appearance at the hip, but those lean more toward a flared style than a true wide-leg one.
Created by Iranian men in the 19th century, they were worn to combat extreme desert temperatures. Made popular in the 70s and 80s by Lauren Bacall, we’re seeing a resurgence of the style. Today, the style is usually high-waisted, creating an hourglass figure and elongating the legs.
As designers like The Row and Jacquemus (and Louis Vuitton) have featured this style on their runways for several recent seasons, the popularity has grown. Fall was full of the pants style, and winter is looking to go in the same direction.
Available in many fabrics and patterns, there is a way to wear wide-leg pants for all who wander. Think wool, stretch cotton, leather, denim, silk, plaid, and plenty of other patterns. With their voluminous silhouette, they are forgiving to the figure while also being relatively easy to style. The wide-leg fit is exactly what we need to get back to looking fun while still being comfortable.
Keep the styling simple with a monochrome look or play with proportions by pairing it with an oversized top or structured blazer. For a more business-ready look, a relaxed fit button-down shirt is a good option. A t-shirt and denim jacket offer a casual look, while a fur coat or a trench coat can elevate the look creating a sophisticated and put-together moment that can be styled up or down accordingly.
Different lengths from cropped to full length also offer a little bit of play for styling. Footwear can be as prominent or non-existent as you desire depending on the length you choose. I can see cropped wide-leg pants transitioned easily into spring styles, too, so that’s a bonus too.
The time to try out this trend is now, especially if you want to get the hang of it to transition this style into spring. Wide-leg pants are any occasion pants, and you’d be surprised at how easy it is to whip up a couple of pairs for yourself!
A few free wide-leg pattern recs are below:
What’s your favorite way to style wide-leg pants? Leave a comment below!
1 comment
Nice