Baggy trousers are the quintessential trend of the moment. So, we thought we’d show you how to style them, with picks from high-street brands like H&M and Zara, to labels like All Saints and Chloé.
Also known by names such as bloomers, harem pants (inspired by styles like the Turkish salvar), and parachute pants, baggy trousers are everywhere. Street style images of the recent fashion weeks prove that they are one of this season’s hottest trends, whether you were ready for them to return or not.
In past seasons, we’ve flirted with balloon cuts and similar styles, but it feels like now we’re ready to fully embrace them, with their wide proportions and gathered fabric. If you’re intimidated by the dramatic silhouette and are unsure of how to style baggy trousers, read on.
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How to style baggy trousers:
By observing the best-dressed women in the world at fashion weeks, we’ve picked up certain infallible tricks to elevate this type of trouser. Here’s how you can give them a more formal air, or adapt them to your day-to-day.
1. Choose smart shoes
Although we love trainers, unfortunately, they’re not going to do much to elevate these trousers. We need shoes that add richness to the outfit and make it feel less casual. Would a heel help? Definitely, especially stilettos, but you can also opt for ankle boots and shoes with a low heel.
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If you want to go for flat shoes, try ballet flats that have some interesting elements like buckles or laces, which you can snake up the ankle until they join the trouser hem.
2. Accessorise heavily if you want to detract from the balloon-like silhouette
Accessories: A bow, a delicate bag, a belt with a metallic buckle, some colourful hairpins… Don’t be afraid to introduce elements that detract from the boho aura of the trousers. Contrast makes for a great look.
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3. Play with textures
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Play with textures: Lace, satin touches, cashmere… Any fabric that adds luxury to the equation will look great with your baggy trousers. Here, we love the contrast between the rich, dark denim and a bohemian-inspired, high-neck lace top. Below, we’ve found high-street buys that play with textures and compliment baggy trousers perfectly.
4. Tone down your colour choices
Colours: When you’re stuck, go for the ultimate life-saver: black. That way you can’t go wrong. If you’re feeling more adventurous, you can also go for chocolate brown and burgundy, which, besides being on-trend, make everything they touch look sophisticated. Don’t want to go for an entirely monochrome look? Here, a black polo neck and black parachute trousers have been paired with sky blue accessories, for a welcome pop of colour.
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5. Pair with a statement jacket
Clothes: Go for the most special jacket in your wardrobe, the jacket that always makes a statement or that chic coat you adore. It will be your best companion when styling baggy trousers, not only adding balance to the outfit, but detracting the eye away from the balloon-like bottoms.
Here, shop the best winter coats, fur coats, blazers and suede jackets.
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After more styling tips? Discover how to style an oversized shirt, how to style a trench coat and how to style wide leg jeans.
This story originally appeared on Glamour Spain.