Yes, you can wear culottes and look cool. The trick to wearing culottes is to pick the right top; then treat them like any old pair of pants. You want a fitted shirt that’s cropped or that you can tuck in to balance out the wider silhouette of the pants.
When it comes to the culottes themselves, choosing the right style is key. Culottes can easily be unflattering and make you look shorter or wider (unless you’re Giselle and look good in anything). The key is to find a pair that hits a few inches above the ankle and that are streamlined on the sides — no bunching or pockets, which can add bulk. Size up if you need to. Add length (and polish) to a pair of culottes with a pump or sandal, or go low-key with a slide, sneaker, or loafer for a more casual look.
If you’re worried about how to style them, here are some of my tips for how to wear culottes:
Choose the Right Culottes:
Classic culottes typically reach mid-calf, while cropped culottes end just below the knee. Opt for a high-waisted style to create a flattering silhouette and emphasize your waist. Length is key in choosing the right culottes. If you’re taller, longer culottes are easier to pull off. If you’re more petite, try a more cropped style to avoid looking overwhelmed by the pants.
Pair with a Fitted Top:
To balance the volume of culottes, pair them with a fitted or tucked-in top. Blouses, fitted sweaters, or tailored shirts all work. Tuck in your shirt to help define your waistline and create a polished look. A cropped jacket or a fitted blazer can work well with culottes to keep the outfit balanced.
Choose the Right Footwear:
Culottes look great with a variety of shoes, depending on the occasion. For a casual look, try sneakers, espadrilles, or flat sandals. To dress up your culottes, consider heeled sandals, ankle boots, or pumps. Avoid shoes with ankle straps that can visually shorten your legs.
Consider the Occasion:
Culottes can be dressed up or down depending on the occasion. For a casual look, wear them with a tee and sneakers or flats. For a more dressed up look, pair them with a blouse or cropped jacket and heels.
I always like to look at bloggers and street style pics to help me figure out how to pull off a tricky trend. Here are my favorite ideas for how to wear culottes and look cool.
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