Style Note: Wide Legged Trousers

 
They have elegance, character, longevity. The wide legged trousers are flattering, too, for most silhouettes, provided you find the right cut and fabric – a clean front, for example, is more becoming than a pleated one. In light cotton or breezy linen, they are one of the mainstays of a timeless summer wardrobe. I do love the wide trouser look especially for summer, conjuring up a perfect combination of glamour and tomboy. In winter, I find the style too predictable and on-duty for my taste, but in the warm season it is quite the contrary, a little more elegant than expected, without forgoing the feeling of freedom and comfort – I sometimes even prefer it to jeans.

And it doesn’t hurt to have Katharine Hepburn, Marlene Dietrich and Lauren Hutton as inspirations for the style. Never conventional, never boring, always original, even when wearing the most classic items. Different through attitude and understatement.
 

 
How about wearing your voluminous trousers with a tank top and braces for a boyish, laid-back summer look? I like to match them with flats (ballet shoes, strappy sandals, but, most of all, pointy-toed pumps), even if they are a tad too long, for a slouchy and sleek look. But they look just as stylish paired with a high heel, especially if they’re cuffed. And if you go for heels, lose the silk blouse and opt instead for a safari shirt or a simple top and maybe wooden bangles. Strive for details in every outfit!
 

photos: 1-J. Crew Spring 2011 Lookbook, via Fashionising.com/ 2-Peter Lindbergh for Club Monaco, Spring/Summer 2007; model: Maryna Linchuk / 3-Hermès ad campaign, via Cashmere Lover/ 4-Richard Avedon for the American Vogue 1966; model Lauren Hutton / 5-Corbis, 1957, Stratford, Connecticut; Katharine Hepburn