4 Wide Leg Pants We Love and How to Style Them
W&S Home & Lifestyle Editorial Team
Photo credit: @mahevana_m
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In a fashion landscape ever-evolving, some classics endure and resurface as enduring icons. One such icon is the wide leg pant. As this versatile wardrobe staple regains its place in the spotlight, our exploration takes us beyond its aesthetic appeal. We delve into the history of wide leg pants, from their introduction in the 1920s to their resurgence today, celebrating not just their style but also their comfort and inclusivity. Within these pages, we'll examine the roots and rise of wide leg pants, explore diverse styling options, and introduce you to brands that are redefining fashion with sustainability at their core. So, whether you're a seasoned fan or new to this iconic style, our journey through the world of wide leg pants promises to inspire your fashion choices while nurturing your values.
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Wide Leg Pants: An Iconic Fashion Staple
Wide leg pants have made a stunning resurgence in the fashion world, with many major fashion magazines and news outlets predicting their triumphant comeback in recent months. However, these stylish bottoms are far from a fleeting trend; they boast a rich history that spans several cultures and generations. Wide leg pants first graced the fashion scene in the early 20th century but have much deeper roots in the attire of various communities around the world. This fashion revival embraces diversity and inclusivity, allowing women of color to reclaim and celebrate the wide leg pants as an iconic style statement.
Throughout history, wide leg pants have been worn by a diverse array of communities, from the traditional attire of African cultures like the Yoruba, with their flowing Buba and Iro garments, to the iconic Zoot suits, donned by Mexican American and African American communities during the 1940s. These pants have been a symbol of empowerment, fashion, and cultural identity, transcending borders and backgrounds. The history of wide leg pants is deeply interwoven with stories of resistance, rebellion, and cultural expression, making them a statement of unity among communities of color.
In the winter season, wide leg pants shine as a versatile and stylish choice. Their roomy fit allows for comfortable layering to keep warm without sacrificing style. Wide leg pants can be paired with cozy sweaters, tailored blazers, or elegant coats, offering a chic and comfortable look that is perfectly suited for the colder months. By choosing wide leg pants, you're not only embracing a fashion revival but also celebrating a versatile style with a rich cultural history. In this article, we'll introduce you to five wide leg pant styles that we adore and share tips on how to style them for various occasions. Whether you're drawn to vintage elegance or contemporary trends, wide leg pants can be a lasting and iconic addition to your wardrobe for years to come, celebrating the beauty of diverse and inclusive fashion.
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Styling Wide Leg Pants
Wide leg pants are a versatile wardrobe staple that can be styled in various ways, each reflecting a different aesthetic. Whether you're aiming for a preppy, boho, grunge, or streetwear-inspired look, wide leg pants have got you covered. Here are four fantastic ways to style these iconic pants for different fashion vibes:
1. Preppy Elegance:
For a polished, preppy aesthetic, opt for wide leg pants in classic colors like navy, black, or pinstripes. Pair them with a fitted button-up blouse or a crisp white shirt. Tuck in your top, accentuate your waist with a belt, and finish the look with some stylish loafers or heeled mules. Accessorize with a statement necklace or a silk scarf for that perfect touch of elegance.
2. Boho Chic:
Wide leg pants perfectly fit the boho or shabby chic style. Look for pants in earthy tones, flowy fabrics, pathwork, or floral prints. Pair them with a loose-fitting peasant blouse or a crochet top. Add some layered necklaces, oversized cardigans, and a floppy hat to complete the bohemian look. Finish with platform sandals or espadrilles to achieve that effortless, free-spirited vibe.
3. Edgy Grunge:
Embrace the grunge style with wide leg pants in darker shades like black or charcoal gray. Choose pants with distressed details or a rugged denim fabric. Complete the look with a graphic tee, a leather or denim jacket, and combat boots. You can also accessorize with chunky silver jewelry, a beanie, and round-framed sunglasses for that edgy touch.
4. Streetwise Athleisure:
For a comfortable yet trendy look, opt for wide leg pants in comfortable fabrics like jersey or knit. These can be in solid colors or sporty patterns. Pair them with a cropped hoodie or a sports bra and throw on an oversized bomber jacket. Complete the athleisure look with sleek sneakers or chunky, high-top trainers. Add a backpack and some hoop earrings to give it a modern, streetwise edge.
These styling ideas demonstrate the incredible versatility of wide leg pants. Whether you're going for a polished, bohemian, grunge, or athleisure look, you can create diverse outfits that fit your mood and the occasion. The key to nailing wide leg pants is to find the right pair that complements your style, ensuring you feel confident and chic in any setting. Now, check out our favorite wide leg pants to add to your wardrobe…
Wide Leg Pants Option 1: Whimsy + Row
Our W&S Approved Recommendation:
Leanna Pant in Chocolate
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Look chic and stylish without compromising on comfort with the Leanna Pant! Featuring a trouser design with an elastic waistband, you won’t feel restricted as you move through the day. A perfect pairing with every top in your wardrobe - trust us, you’ll be rocking these pants!
About the Brand & Why We Love Them:
Whimsy + Row, an eco-conscious lifestyle brand, has cultivated a deep-seated commitment to quality goods and sustainable practices. Established in 2014, this brand has embarked on a mission to infuse ease and elegance into the modern, sustainable woman's wardrobe.
When it comes to creating their clothing, Whimsy + Row stands out for their ethical and local approach. Each of their limited run batches is meticulously handcrafted under fair and ethical conditions right in the heart of Los Angeles. They've chosen to keep their production close to home, making it possible for them to personally oversee their operations, ensuring not only that fair wages are provided but that workers are treated with the respect and dignity they deserve. The brand's dedication to using locally sourced, upcycled, and low impact materials underscores their commitment to sustainability. With a focus on eco-friendly fabrics, they curate flirty and effortless pieces that not only exude style but also remain sustainable, ensuring that each item in your wardrobe is a timeless treasure.
Rachel, the founder of Whimsy + Row, is the driving force behind this brand's commitment to sustainability. With a background in fashion, her love for sustainability blossomed during her time at fashion school in San Francisco. After gaining valuable experience in the fashion industry, from packaging boxes in a warehouse to managing a team for a fashion tech start-up, she became increasingly disheartened by the unethical practices within the fashion world. In 2014, Rachel decided to forge her path and established Whimsy + Row in West Los Angeles. Her vision was to create a brand that not only embraced sustainability but also rejected excess waste and egotism. Since its inception, Whimsy + Row has steadfastly maintained a reputation for being an eco-friendly, inclusive, and compassionate brand and community, reflecting Rachel's vision and commitment to a more sustainable and equitable fashion industry
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Wide Leg Pants Option 2: Bastet Noir
Our W&S Approved Recommendation:
The Nina Pants
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Because cool girls wear two-piece sets made from the softest white cupro silk. The Nina Pants are high-waist pants with a hidden zipper, pockets, and a hand-ruched waistband.
About the Brand & Why We Love Them:
Bastet Noir, a pioneering fashion brand, is rooted in a mission and set of values that are as unique and empowering as their bespoke clothing. Rejecting the conventional limitations of clothing sizes, Bastet Noir believes that every body is distinct and beautiful in its way. As a result, they craft custom and fabulous clothing that resonates with your personal style and, most importantly, suits your body shape. This inclusivity, celebrating diversity in every sense, is at the core of their brand. They create for women who exude strength, boldness, and the spirit of empowerment. Bastet Noir's designs are tailored for the unapologetically strong and independent women who roar, speak up, motivate, and empower. Their fashion pieces are not just clothing; they are bold statements that embrace every woman's unique body type, celebrating every inch of individuality.
Philanthropy plays an integral role in the Bastet Noir ethos. In July 2020, they established a fund to support single parent women within their community, helping them navigate the dire consequences of the pandemic. This fund is designed to provide essential support, enabling these women to overcome the everyday challenges and grow their businesses during these uncertain times. Customers can contribute to this initiative by leaving a tip after each purchase, and the accumulated tip amount for the month is directed to the woman-owned studio that crafted their item. Bastet Noir has created a seamless way to give back to the community with every purchase.
Sustainability is another cornerstone of Bastet Noir's commitment to responsible fashion. Their on-demand production model promotes sustainability by reducing waste, and it stands as a testament to their environmental consciousness. By avoiding the need for excess inventory, they significantly reduce waste in the fashion industry. The result is high-quality, personalized fashion pieces that not only fit you perfectly but also embody the brand's dedication to sustainability and environmental friendliness. Bastet Noir is fashion with a conscience, where style and sustainability converge to create a meaningful impact.
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Wide Leg Pants Option 3: Oh Seven Days
Our W&S Approved Recommendation:
Heather Trousers
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The Heather Trousers are a comfortable, relaxed, and reliable everyday option. High-waisted with a thick adjustable waistband, and side pockets. Best styling with Scrunch Top or Ruby top.
About the Brand & Why We Love Them:
Oh Seven Days, the mindful women's wear label hailing from Istanbul, Turkey, is setting a new paradigm in sustainable fashion. Rooted in the ethos of "making slow fashion from fast fashion's leftovers," Oh Seven Days crafts stylish staples from deadstock fabrics. With a commitment to ethical practices and sustainability, they offer a versatile range of garments designed for Monday to Sunday dressing.
The inception of Oh Seven Days took shape when Founder Megan Mummery stumbled upon a small district in Istanbul, where off-cut fabric rolls, remnants of large garment manufacturers, were being sold. These fabrics, often destined for landfills due to overproduction or miscalculated consumption, became the catalyst for a unique idea — a women's wear brand that utilizes these neglected materials to create sustainable and regenerative fashion.
At Oh Seven Days, sustainability is not just a buzzword; it's a way of life. Their approach aligns with "slow fashion," advocating the concept of "The Power of Circularity." They source their materials meticulously, primarily from deadstock fabric rolls, given their strategic location in Istanbul, a global hub for textile manufacturing. The fabrics that find new life in Oh Seven Days' collections are the beloved remnants of an industry that often leaves a wasteful trail.
Transparency is a fundamental tenet of Oh Seven Days' commitment to its customers. They believe that you deserve to know more about the clothing you wear, from its design and manufacturing process to sales and distribution. Providing complete transparency is their mission, ensuring that you're well-informed about the origins of your garments. Oh Seven Days invites you behind the scenes of their brand's journey, from the very first stitch to the moment the item reaches your wardrobe.
Their collections come to life in Istanbul, thanks to a trusted partner manufacturing facility. This facility has earned its stripes as a fully audited, fair trading, and worker-friendly company. It's also a member of the ethical trade membership organization Sedex, which propels businesses to enhance their social and environmental performance while ensuring improved working conditions across the supply chain. With Oh Seven Days, you're not just wearing fashion; you're embodying a commitment to ethics and sustainability.
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Wide Leg Pants Option 4: RESAP Paris
Our W&S Approved Recommendation:
AGATA Pants
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The AGATA pant is the iconic jean of the brand. They can be worn during the day as well as at night. It is made from second hand denim and glittery fabric from end of roll of big house. The glittery fabric insert creates a beautiful flared cut.
About the Brand & Why We Love Them:
RESAP Paris is not just a brand; it's a heartfelt narrative woven by the friendship of Mona and Daphne, two kindred spirits on a quest for a more meaningful world. United by their shared passion for human, social, and environmental causes, they met during their engineering studies and quickly forged a deep friendship. Through countless conversations and shared awareness, they recognized the need for a project that embodied their values and principles, fusing their love for fashion with their commitment to societal issues.
As Mona and Daphne reveal, the birth of RESAP Paris was an unmistakable calling, a venture that resonates with their shared purpose and brings them together. Their individual passions for fashion and social matters found a harmonious union in this project. The driving forces behind RESAP Paris are rooted in ecological and ethical concerns within the fashion industry.
RESAP Paris stands as a symbol of transformation and progress. It is not merely an upcycling brand; it's a resounding voice that champions a distinctive philosophy. For Mona and Daphne, it represents a way of thinking that extends beyond the boundaries of fashion. It encompasses elements of social responsibility, the spirit of sharing, and an abundance of humor. With RESAP Paris, fashion becomes a vehicle to address critical societal and environmental issues, making it a brand that dares to dream of a better world.
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The resurgence of wide leg pants is especially timely as we navigate the demands of winter fashion. With its versatility, wide leg pants can be effortlessly styled for various occasions, from a casual day out to a formal evening event. These pants offer an ideal canvas for layering in colder months, keeping you cozy without compromising your style.
