How to Wear Harem Pants and Peg-leg Trousers
Rules for Looking Good in Spring Summer 2009's Tricky Trouser Trends
May 9, 2009
If you don’t have a pair of harem or peg-legged pants hanging in your wardrobe by now then the chances are you have been hibernating all winter. Any fashionista worth their salt will be wearing one or both of these tricky trends for the Spring Summer 2009 season.
Rules for Wearing Harem Pants
Using both Arabic (harem-style) and Asian (fisherman’s pants) influences, ultra-modern dropped-crotch pants have ruled the runways now for two seasons. Believe it or not, teamed with the right pieces this year's harem pants can be figure flattering and classy to wear. No longer quite the billowy trousers of 2008, affordable sleeker styles in light fabrics with a leaner silhouette have hit the high street stores from Zara to Top Shop to Reiss, ready for the spring summer season. Baggy at the crotch and slim at the ankles, follow some easy fashion tips to wear your new harem pants with style:
- Don’t go too loose at the crotch or baggy in the middle. Opt for a style than is leaner, especially if you are under 5' 3". There are a number of variations on the harem theme so keep trying until you find one that flatters your shape.
- Harem pants in light drapey fabrics are the most flattering. Try silk or cotton jersey. According to Grazia, magazine of February 9th, 2009, in “Harems: Yes You Can!”, satin and wool versions are best avoided as they can look like nappies.
- Set off the bagginess of the trouser with high-heels. Must-have accessories are a pair of gladiator sandals or strappy stilettos, the higher the better.
- When it comes to up top, think cropped tailored jackets or a fitted boyfriend blazer.
- Stay slim on top to counter-balance the fullness of the pants. Wear fitted tops, not baggy ones. If you have trouble finding a look that works for you, then try one of the seasons slouchy harem-style jumpsuits instead.
- For a more classic take, pair tailored harems with a pussy-bow or frilly blouse.
- Add a wide, chunky belt for an added casual style.
- Choose pants that are cropped just below the knee for day-wear and go for longer styles (cropped just above the ankles) for night time.
- For harem pants that are particularly baggy, brightly colored basic tees and tucked-in vests will balance out the width at the legs.
Rules for Wearing Peg-Legged Pants
If harem pants have become the biggest trouser hit of the season, then peg-leg trousers come a close second. Pleated at the waist and tapered in at the leg, this is not a look that is flattering for everyone.
This 80s-inspired boyish cut is part of what is dubbed this season’s trend of "Boyfriend Dressing”. Move over skinny jeans, this is a classic look which is stylish and has a touch of attitude, providing you can carry them off.
- Strappy high-heeled sandals are a must, in order to streamline the look and give added height. Go for detailing on footwear such as feathers (part of the tribal trend), ruffles and pleats, if you want a more feminine touch.
- To balance out the bagginess at the waist, peg pants are best worn with a fitted top, like a casual silk T-shirt or fitted feminine blouse. Make sure and define the waist by wearing tops tucked in.
- To add some glamour to this classic tailoring add a wide statement belt. Accessorize with this season’s ethnic, chunky jewelry or some sparkly gems.
- If you feel the style is too masculine, go for soft pastels and blush tones, which are more feminine and will provide a much softer look. One of the best buys around is a pair of cream silk trousers from Reiss of London. These tick two-trend boxes, as they have the harem and peg-leg trend covered in one chic style.
Whether its harem or peg-legs, experiment and have fun with this tricky trend. There is no need to break the bank as these runway-inspired pants may not be around for many seasons, but they are pieces that will instantly update your wardrobe for this spring and summer, without having to try too hard.
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