So you want to know how to style wide leg pants? You’ve come to the right place. Wide leg pants are a must-have in every capsule wardrobe. That means, you’re going to get a lot of wear out of them. They are versatile, comfortable and can be dressed up or down for any occasion.
Whether you’re heading to the office, a brunch with friends or a night out on the town, wide leg pants can easily elevate your look. Not to mention, they’re great for a summer easy fit while you’re travelling Europe this year. Let’s dive into the different ways you can master wide leg pants for every occasion.
Wide Leg Pants Are Back!
Wide leg pants have been around since the 1920s when women started wearing them to feel more free. Today, they are super popular once again. Celebrities like Bella Hadid, Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, and Hailey Bieber have brought them back as a cool girl go-to, rather than reserving them for your corporate office. It’s good news for those of you who hate anything form fitting, honestly.
But why? Unlike capri pants, wide leg pants are incredibly versatile and work for any body type. They have a relaxed fit that skims over your hips and thighs, making them comfortable yet stylish. Plus, they elongate your legs and give the illusion of a taller frame – perfect for petite women who want to add some inches.
How To Style Wide Leg Pants For Work
Wide leg pants can also be a powerful choice for the workplace, and probably the most obvious occasion to style them. Choose tailored trousers in neutral colours like black, navy, or beige for a polished appearance. You can even choose a grey or navy pinstripe pair for a more traditional touch. From there, you can take it one of two ways: dress them up or down.
To dress them up, you can go as far as choosing a matching blazer and waistcoat. This is the type of uniform look that’s a hit among fashion editors and those who love effortless chic.
Or, take a leaf out of Rosie Huntington-Whiteley’s book, who is known for her impeccable office-ready outfits, often incorporating wide leg pants into her wardrobe. Because truly, it’s the easiest way to look put together. Add some pointed heels and a leather tote to finish the look.
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To dress them down, this is when you grab your favourite (but work appropriate) top. It could be an asymmetric or high-neck tank, right through to your classic button up shirt. Anything goes, really. You can pair them with loafers, Tabi‘s or block heels and then add a contrast belt to bring it all together.
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How To Style Wide Leg Linen Pants For Summer
Travelling to Europe pants? Sign us up. As you’re probably already aware, wide leg pants are perfect for summer—especially travelling. Why? Because they’re easy to throw on and style with sandals, hats, and sunglasses. Basically, everything you would have already packed. Plus, the lightweight fabric is perfect for hot weather.
Beyond that though, you can easily wear wide leg linen pants for you everyday summer fashion. You can style them the same as a suit, with a matching linen waistcoat or top. This works particularly well if all the colours match, so whether you like white, beige or red, you know how to match an outfit together.
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You can even take inspiration from Scandinavians, and pair them with a knit bandeau top or an oversized shirt. Because let’s be real, who doesn’t love a these? We all have one or the other in our wardrobe.
How To Style Wide Leg Pants For Casual Occasions
For a laid-back look, pair your wide leg pants with a simple t-shirt or tank top. Opt for light, breathable fabrics like linen or cotton during the summer months. They’ll be both comfortable and keep you cool (no one likes being sweaty!).
I like to go for ones that are more tailored to keep the shape of the outfit, and if you want to be on trend, low-rise is a great choice. This is completely up to you and your style though, and what you’d wear the most.
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For the cooler months, a denim wide leg pant is a great option, especially when paired with a chunky knit or leather jacket. Or, choosing thicker trousers made from a wool blend will do the trick. You can finish off the look with some sneakers or ankle boots. It’s just a super simple, easy way to stay warm while looking fab.
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Overall, the sky is really the limit when it comes to styling wide leg pants for casual occasions. You can try a monochromatic look by pairing them with a top in the same colour family, or mix and match with different patterns and textures.
For a street style vibe, add a graphic t-shirt and sneakers. You can also dress them up slightly with a cute crop top and sandals for a day out with friends.
How To Style Wide Leg Pants For Evening
Last but not least, is styling wide leg pants for evening or formal events. This may seem like a tricky task, but with the right pairings, you can create a striking look. It’s all about the pieces you choose to pair with your wide leg pants.
For an elegant evening look, opt for wide leg pants in luxurious fabrics like silk or satin. A flowy top or off-the-shoulder blouse adds a touch of glamour, while heels and statement jewellery complete the outfit. This look is perfect for a fancy dinner or a night out on the town with your girlfriends.
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If you’re styling this for winter, all you need is a thick wool coat and a gorgeous clutch to complete your outfit. It’s the perfect mix of formal yet comfortable, so you can stay warm while still looking chic.
Accessorising Wide Leg Pants
Accessories can make or break an outfit, so it’s essential to choose them wisely when styling wide leg pants. Here are some tips for selecting the perfect accessories:
Belts
A well-chosen belt can enhance your waistline and add a touch of sophistication to your look. Opt for a wide belt to cinch in your waist and create a flattering silhouette. For a more casual look, choose a slim belt in a contrasting colour to add interest to your outfit. For example, wear a brown belt with black or grey pants.
Shoes
Choosing the right shoes is crucial when styling wide leg pants. Heels can add height and elongate your legs, and you’ll want to choose a pointed toe for this. For a more casual look, opt for sneakers or ankle boots. Ensure that the hem of your pants is tailored to the appropriate length for your chosen footwear, otherwise they’ll drag every time you leave the house.
Jewellery
My personal favourite. When it comes to jewellery, vintage inspired earrings or likewise pieces can completely change the vibe. Opt for statement pieces like bold earrings or layered necklaces to add interest to your outfit without overwhelming it. Delicate bracelets and rings can also add a touch of elegance to your look.
Wide leg pants are a versatile and stylish addition to any wardrobe. With the right styling, they can be worn for casual, professional, and formal occasions. By choosing the right fit, experimenting with different looks, and accessorising wisely, you can make wide leg pants a staple in your capsule wardrobe checklist.
