It’s safe to say that skinny jeans are on their way out. You won’t look “so 2011” in them just yet. But in due time, my friends. There is a comparable alternative, but if you’re really looking for something different, you’re in luck.
With the 70s trend taking over both spring and fall, it should be no surprise to see flares (especially denim) coming back. This is one of those things I have a love / hate relationship with (somehow I feel that way about so many trends) because of the following.
I love, because they’re super flattering (when done right) and you might just end up looking like Karlie Kloss (emphasis on might).
I hate because it reminds me of this.
Remember “going out” tops? Anything we saw a lot of in the early to mid 2000s has pretty much scarred me for life (it’s the main reason I refuse to wear camo post 2005). So thinking about trying flares again is a little scary, not only because you don’t want to look like Kristin Cavallari pre-Cutler days, but because they’re not all that easy to style. Although leave it to Kate Moss to make it look beyond effortless.
I love how that photo could have been taken yesterday or 10 years ago. It goes to show that Kate the Great is chic in any decade.
The problem with flares is that it’s really difficult to find the perfect length for you, so you almost always have to get them hemmed. If you don’t, you end up looking like a mess.
So getting the length right is key. But then, what shoes are you supposed to wear? That’s probably the trickiest part about putting together an outfit based around flare denim. Although there’s been a few people who have proved me wrong, I typically say no to pointed toe heels with flares (unless they’re flare pants and not denim…in that case it’s super chic).
When it’s denim, you risk looking like this. I’m all about taking fashion risks but this is one you don’t want to take.
The easiest shoes to wear with flares? Platforms / flatforms…or any shoe you would consider “chunky.” This way you won’t have to deal with the hem dragging on the ground (which looks sloppy and again is like so 2002) and the look is SUPER flattering. You’ll look like you have legs for days.
If you’re like me and prefer to stick to flats, it can be done but I can’t recommend it as again, it’s not going to do wonders for the legs and that’s the whole point of this marvelous silhouette. Why mess with that? (I’m talking to you LC!)
I’ve also seen flares done right with ankle boots and in this case, I would still go for a thicker heel. Just make sure your pants are at the right length so you can still see some of the boot. But if you don’t want to put too much thought into it, just remember flares + platforms = thumbs up emoji (perhaps even two). It’s as simple as that. And if you still need some more inspiration, look to the flare queen herself, Rachel Zoe.
Or the one who can literally wear anything, anywhere and look amazing no matter what (I know no one is perfect but I think Olivia Palermo is the exception).
French girls flare too! Re: Emmanuelle Alt.
I even got over my flares fear a couple of years ago and brought them back out again.
Although I don’t think I’ve worn these jeans since, I’m sure they’ll be making an appearance this spring (if I can just get myself to wear something other than sneakers or loafers). I could also go for some flared leather pants come fall. Just sayin’.
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So if you’re looking to switch up your denim routine and want to do so with ease, here’s some of my favorite styles (with shoe options too!) Although I prefer a darker wash (specifically black), I’m sort of into an all white look, starring these white jeans. That’s just me, though…what about you? Are you into flare jeans? Or just the flare silhouette in general? Will you be wearing them this spring? Are you wearing them RIGHT NOW?
Images via Pinterest & Fashion Gone Rogue
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