What’s your trouser cut? How to avoid a Wallace moment and end up in the wrong pair.
For a while now dresses have been the go to garment of choice, easy to wear
and no pairing to think about, but this season we now see an increase in
popularity of the humble trouser, so I thought it was a good time to run
through some guidelines of basic shapes. And also, because trousers aren’t
the easiest thing to shop for, it’s a good idea to know what style you
should be looking out for – even then, be prepared to go into the fitting
rooms armed with as many pairs as you can manage.
Firstly, a few general rules to remember which ever style you opt for:
Pleated fronts will add volume and width, so might swamp the very petite.
Side pockets will widen the hips.
If pockets are placed too low they can make your bum look flat. Trousers
with smaller pockets that are higher up will create the illusion of a bigger
and perkier butt. As a general rule pockets should be centered on the
fullest part of the bum.
Wide legged trousers, or buckle dusters as they are known this season – high waisted and floor sweeping. These will make your legs look like they go on forever. Team with waisted tops or a blouse or jumper tucked in. However, they will require heels, which could be one of the deciding factors if you
go with this style or not.
Cargo pants – great way to incorporate the colour khaki if you have a cool
colour complexion and can’t wear warm tones by your face. But be weary of
the side pockets, which can add bulk, so be careful where these are placed,
you don’t want it to be at your widest point. Look for pockets cut flat to
the leg. These can offer a good alternative to the classic cotton chinos.
Wear with ankle boots.
Gathered trousers – pleated around the waist, tapered. These will add volume to the tummy area so you need a trim waist to get away with this style. If that’s you, it’s the style to embrace. However, be mindful that it will also
increase the size of your bum. Wear with the current trend of puffed sleeves
and embellished shoulder details or a wide shouldered jacket. If you’re wanting to give them a try and are petite, look for a cropped version or turn up to show a bit of ankle.
Wide cropped, 3/4 length – shrunk in the wash culottes style trouser. If
you’ve got honed calves and ankles this should be your style of choice to
make sure you show them off. Go for stiffer fabric for this style, avoid
anything too flowy. Cotton or denim will hold their shape best. If flats are for you, these will work very well with this style. Or if you want to opt for boots make sure you don’t show any bare leg and that they are fitted, not a loose style, as you want to show the contrast with the width of the trousers.
7/8th length – cigarette pants. Generally high waisted and cut above the
ankle. These can work well with heels or flats. You can pop on with a silk
shirt and embellished heels for a more glamorous look or a crisp white
blouse and pumps for the office.
Selection of trousers from Zara
So, when deciding which style is for you, remember your body shape and best features to show off with that perfect style!
As always, don’t hesitate to get in touch if you need some help and don’t want to end up in the wrong trousers!
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