Loved by some, hated by others; Culottes are fashion’s Marmite. Despite being a favourite amongst designers, many women have struggled to see past the garment’s reputation as clumsy ‘skort’ or girl scouts’ uniform. Others choose to reject the cropped and wide leg styles as dated or ill-fitting.
Don’t be intimidated. Sitting high on the waist and cut at the slimmest part of the leg, culottes are surprisingly flattering on most body types. Though tailored, their looser fit also allows the wearer some ‘leg room’ without the heaviness of palazzo strides and flares.
When it comes to styling culottes, proportion is everything. Wearing a cropped or halter top, for example, can help to offset the billowing cut of a flared trouser by drawing attention back to the upper half of the body. A chunky sweater or tunic will have the opposite effect, lengthening the torso and creating a smooth silhouette.
NB: For a flirty finish play with ‘underwear as outerwear’ and opt for a lace bralet or camisole.
NB: For a flirty finish play with ‘underwear as outerwear’ and opt for a lace bralet or camisole.
photo credits: aritzia.com, mishanonoo.com, sunshine-n-gunpowder.com, clavisfashion.polyvore.com