Uptown Cool
Jessica Wagner
Culottes
I am at a stage in life where everyone I know is either getting married, having babies or celebrating other monumental life moments. Which means, bring on the parties!
This weekend I am attending a wedding shower for one of my best friends and opted for an outfit that is comfortable without having to wear a skirt or dress, but isn’t quite a regular pair of trousers. (Free the ankle!)
I must admit I was on the fence when I started seeing this voluminous pant style becoming popular. Culottes are loose cropped trousers, cut with full legs that resemble a skirt. If you’re not feeling it, I can understand why. They don’t exactly scream wearable or flattering to a lot of women. Styling these pants is particularly tricky, but don’t worry I’ve got your back!
Since giving them a shot, I have discovered they are an easy style statement-making piece and work for any occasion, in any season. Literally, all of your tops will look good with these bottoms. There's something about culottes that give off an effortless chic vibe.
Try a pair that is mid to high waist in a solid color. They work great with a crisp white button down, a striped tee, or even a tight fitting turtleneck. I can’t wait to style these with an all black ensemble. If you’re still not sold, think about treating culottes as you would a swingy midi skirt, pairing them with everything from a cropped leather jacket and heels, to an oversized sweater and booties.
I’m on the short side, so I feel like I pull this look off better with heels, but they are just as stylish with ballet flats, ankle boots or white sneakers.
You also can totally get away with wearing these to work, and like I said they are a comfortable option for brunch, a date and even a casual dinner party. It’s a great way to break away from the weekend denim, and step-up your office game.
If you still feel intimated by this out-of-the-ordinary silhouette, try on a pair and see if you like the length. There are different style options that might not be as big or flowy, and some that might have a higher waist or even tie at the hips, like the pair I am wearing (although styled in a way you can’t tell in these photos.) Culottes pack a lot of charisma, and when styled right have fashion-girl drawing power.
I styled mine in classic black and white with a loose daisy-textured top. (I love the dainty lace print!) I added mirror shades, my favorite bag for a pop of pale pink and mismatched earrings. How cool is this simple pearl paired with this mohawk style ear-climber?!
So whether you want to look uptown chic or downtown cool, there is a pair of culottes out there for you, you just need to be brave enough to give them a try.
Outfit Details:
Top: Anthropologie Daisy Lace Shell (similar here) Bottoms: Forever 21 Shoes: Top Shop Giselle Multi Buckle Courts Bag: Olivia + Joy Sunglasses: Fox House Vintage Bracelet: Arm Candy Earrings: Robert Rose Ear Cuff/Climber (also love this one) Lips: Anthropologie Albeit Rosewood