I don’t think anyone felt the sea change in the air, but a familiar era has dawned anew. Gone are the days of pants so tight that internal organs were sacrificed. Welcome back, wide-leg trousers and jeans.
Perhaps it was the months of Zoom calls in our sweatpants. Maybe it’s just a cyclical thing. Maybe there’s a surplus of fabric now that the supply chain is righting itself. No matter what, pants that allow you to bend deeply without fear of reprisal are back, and frankly, we are here for it. Pair with a chunky sneaker or worn-in combat boot and a body-conscious top for balance.
Sweeping Changes
One of the things that makes today’s wide-leg jeans look fresh and not like a ’90s revamp is the waistline. Gone are the belly-baring low waists. This comfortably high waist lengthens the look of the leg and makes it grown-up appropriate. This pair, made from Italian denim, is comfortable and oh-so-stylish with block-heeled boots and a slim-cut cashmere sweater. Black Orchid Jill high-waisted wide-leg denim, $228, available at Alysa Rene Boutique.
Check Your Baggage
Wide-leg trousers and prints seem to go hand in hand this season. These earthy checks in soft linen will be a seasonless staple. Pair with a cardigan and crop top now; switch out to a well-loved graphic tee or tank in the summer for an effortlessly casual look. Scotch and Soda Edie checked wide-leg trousers, $188, available at Luna by Ulah.
Crocodile Dungarees
Take the utilitarian trend but make it fashion. That’s what Ulla Johnson did with their garment-washed utility cotton Wilde pant. In a fresh take on a basic, this high-waisted pant features styled flap-front pockets and an ankle-skimming length that makes it fresh for spring and summer. Pair it with anything—this is your everyday uniform for comfort and style. Ulla Johnson Wilde pant in cedar, $365, available at Halls.