Fashion Challenge: Slouchy Pants
While we may all love fashion on the runways, it seems like many college girls stick to the basics day-to-day in fear of looking out of place on campus. Sometimes I can’t help but feel like certain items just aren’t acceptable on a college campus (especially here, in the Midwest), which makes me sad. Of course, some of you fearless ladies wear what you want to class anyway, but on my campus, this seems like the exception instead of the rule.
So for all of you who, like me, wish that there was a more reasonable way to wear high fashion items on campus, I’ve created this Fashion Challenge feature. Each week I’ll pick a different item, (I’m open to suggestions from you in the comments!) something that is a little more challenging to style, and give you pictures of others wearing the item, resources for finding it, tips, and outfit ideas, so you can fearlessly wear it on campus (and maybe start a new trend) yourself. Today, the challenging item is slouchy pants.
You are probably seeing them everywhere: usually silk or satin, pleated, and tapered, slouchy pants are the new skinny jean. Wearing a pair of silk pants in daylight on campus may seem intimidating, but if you style them right, they make a statement–in a good way!
Tips and Tricks:
- Slouchy pants come in a variety of styles from harem-style to structured and cropped. They also run the spectrum in fabrics: from silk to satin, and even khaki. So don’t be afraid to try a few on before you find what works for you!
- Remember that if you choose silk or satin, they aren’t as forgiving as some other fabrics and can cling in strange places. Choose your undergarments accordingly.
- Slouchy pants can be dressed up, as Ms. Missoni proves above, but it can also be casual campus wear. Karla, in picture one, dresses down her silk trousers with a classic denim jacket. Looking for more silky inspiration? Check out Karla’s website: She wears silk pants on a regular basis!
- These trousers have a masculine feel, so don’t be afraid to add girly touches like Ms. Alba:
- Slouchy pants are great for every body type. While they are narrow in the legs, they are very forgiving in the hips. Just be sure to pick a fabric that flatters your body.
Get The Look:
Product Information: Slouchy pants – New York and Co., White tee – Pacsun, Blazer – Forever 21, Heels – Piperlime, Nautical studs – Urban Outfitters, Gold belt – ASOS
Sticking to basics with a few eye-catching accessories is a great way to try something new while remaining in your comfort zone. Girly cut-out heels and nautical stud earrings give feminine touches to an otherwise menswear inspired look (above). Looking for something a little more bold? Try a silk jumpsuit with the same pleated and tapered features.
So, what do you think?
Are you going to try slouchy pants? Do you like the new silhouette? Are you reluctant to try new trends or are you more of a “go big or go home” kinda girl? Any suggestions for future fashion challenge items? I’d love to hear from you!
Posted on on March 11, 2010 / Filed Under: Fashion Tips / Tags: challenge, Fashion Challenge, Jessica Alba, pleated pants, silk, slouchy pants
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Samantha
I’ve been trying to figure out how to wear non-skinny pants without heels without looking like a backup dancer for MC Hammer… suggestions?
Do you plan on doing a piece on crop tops? For the most part I think they’re just inappropriate to wear to class, but it’d be interesting to see another take on it.
Tasha
I recently bought myself a pair of ‘slouchy’ trousers from UO UK, reduced from £48 to £9, bargain! Anyway, over here we call them Peg Leg trousers (or at least, my friends and I do). Mine have a houndstooth pattern on them, and they are the first pair of trousers I’ve worn since school. I don’t even own a pair of jeans, leggings are the closest I get to trousers. They’re amazing. And yeah, I get funny looks for wearing them on campus, but they’re amazing. Mine are slightly cropped, skimming my ankles, and I wear them with a white linen blouse and black plain flatties., keeping the attention on the trousers.
Amazing :)
Kristi
Regarding where you said “college girls stick to the basics day-to-day in fear of looking out of place on campus”, sometimes thats better than the alternative.
Yesterday, on campus, I saw a girl walking to class wearing thin leggings, a sheer top with nothing underneath which was not long enough to cover any part of her lower half, and leather stiletto boots.
It would have looked awesome in a photoshoot or on the runway and she could definitely pull it off in the right situation, but an outfit like that is so NOT what to wear to class.
CLC
oh wow I love this serious!! I’m always looking for ways to be adventurous in fashion :)
Abby
I am so excited to continue reading this feature! I go to a really small conservative school in a slightly rural area where almost everyone sticks to simple basics. Although I totally agree with Kristi about making sure what you wear is appropriate for class, I’m excited to try some new trends in a toned down way!
Audrey - Ohio State University
I’m glad you guys are liking it!
Kristi, I know exactly what you mean! I can’t tell you how many girls I’ve seen here wearing similar things. Making a bold fashion statement doesn’t have to be tasteless, though! Tons of classy ladies (like my fave, Alexa Chung) try new things without looking inappropriate. There is nothing wrong with basics, but it’s fun to try something new every so often. I’ll make sure to keep all this in mind while I’m writing the feature.
B
I have those Nine West heels! most comfortable things ever
Monica
I think those pants only look OK on “model like” girls (very tall and very skinny) who can take risks and make it look like she really knew what she was doing. Still, I don’t think it looks good. It may look fashionable, but not pretty.
Erin
I have to agree with Monica–there is nothing flattering about slouchy pants. They do absolutely nothing for you. Why would i want to make my hips look wider?!?!
However, I do like the idea of a fashion challenge, and trying new things. So kudos on that.
lalalina
Yeah, I do not think this fashion statement looks good on anyone, even models.
Denise
I saw a pair of these on a girl the other day, it looked really good on her. Its one of those trends that wont flatter every body type. I know it wont look good on me cuz I’m bottom heavy. Not only will it add more weight to my thighs and hips. It will also make my legs look like the turkey legs on my mom’s thanksgiving dinner!! So I guess I shall pass up on this trend.
Marisa
I think slouchy pants always make you look bigger than you really are… Not flattering!
Jojo
I’m excited about this look … I have a pair of black ones, and I’m definitely excited to wear them once the snow is gone (ALMOST!!!)
I was all into harem pants, because in Europe they were all the rage, but I have YET to wear them in Canada. This trend is a nice similar trend that I feel is “Canada-friendly”.
Lucia
Jojo I’m looking for a black pretty pair in Canada. Any suggestions?