I’ve been talking about Body Shapes this week on Instagram, and I wanted to focus this blog on pant styles specifically. Pants are difficult for EVERYONE, and we often get discouraged to only stop and say “nothing fits me.” I completely understand the frustration and also share in it.
So much goes into a well fitting pant and it is never your size. I’ll say that again, it is not your size that is the problem. Cut, fabric, inseam, and length are all the mitigating factors to a well fitting or ill fitting pant. Please be patient with yourself and you will find your brand/s that never disappoint.
The styles below that I suggest in my Body Shape Masterclass are not written in stone. They are meant just to be a guideline for you when you are shopping for new pants or editing out old ones. Be confident to try whatever you like, and knowledgeable enough to know what just doesn’t work and why, and then move on 🙂
The Slim/Skinny Pant
The slim pant is a style that works for most, as long as the fit and fabric are right. It’s going to usually look better on someone with relatively slim legs though. This could be a rectangle, an inverted triangle, a figure-8 and an apple’s best friend :). It can work for the hourglass and pear shape, although typically you are wider in the legs, hips, and thighs. In this case, look for a higher waist and not a skinny leg. Stick to a slim style that skims your curves, not hugs them.
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Flare/Bootcut
I consider this the most universally flattering pant. Not everybody loves this style. It can be a little trickier with shoes, but it is flattering because it is creating shape for those who are straighter, and balances the proportions of those who do have curves.
This style is best worn with platforms, pointy toe heels or boots. If you are a bit taller and want to wear a flat then a pointy toe flat or boot is perfect. You can also wear this style with slides, sandals, and sneakers if you hem them at a shorter length. Styling and tailoring will make a huge difference in this pant style.
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Tapered Leg
This is also a very flattering style. It’s similar to the straight leg but gives more room through the hips and thighs. This style works best if it has a defined waist band and a higher waist. It will lean out a petite frame and work just as well for taller women.
It helps with the hourglass or pear shape giving more room where you need it but then tapering in to show your slimmer legs, giving a more balanced shape. For inverted triangles it helps to balance your shoulders, and gives an illusion of a waist and hips, giving you shape. It also works well for the apple as it tapers to accentuate your slim legs and creates a slimmer looking middle area. The idea here is tuck in your shirt, and if you won’t do that you should have a 3rd piece for layering.
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Wide Leg Pant
The wide leg is continuing its popularity this season. It can be tricky though for some shapes and heights to wear, but don’t rule it out. I’m 5’4”, and have a pear shape and love this style.
Rule of thumb for petites, hourglass or pear: stick with drapier fabrics, higher waists, and little to no pleats. Belt them if possible, and wear them with a heel. This pant typically requires tucking in to make it the most flattering. This style is not great for an apple, but can be styled properly for all other shapes.
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Straight Leg Pant
The straight leg pant is hugely popular, and can work on many body shapes. It’s best for slimmer legs, but so many factors go into this style of pant. You have to consider the length, the rise (high waisted is better for the pear, hourglass and petite).
If you are an apple shape this is a good style for you as long as the leg opening is not too wide, you do not want to look like a rectangle. This style is nice for a column if it’s higher waisted and can be belted to create a waist, and then add some volume on top. Pointy toe shoes or boots are great, or you can hem them above the ankle to be worn with slides, sandals, or a cool sneaker.
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I hope this has been somewhat helpful, as I know it’s a lot of information. This is just a sampling of what you would receive if you are interested in purchasing my 1 hour Masterclass presentation. However, if you don’t already, please follow me on Instagram or Facebook where I always talk about styling tips and tricks to help guide you in all things style.
If you’d like to chat more on how I may help you please click the link below to schedule your complimentary consult now, I’d love to chat with you!
And as always, thank you for being here.
