As fall approaches, it’s time to revitalize and perk up your wardrobe; and what better place to start than by investing in new denim? Despite the popularity of skinny jeans (and for good reason – skinny jeans are practically foolproof!), flare jeans – also known as bell bottoms – are here to stay. This trend’s got legs. (Ha, see what I did there? Puns are awesome.)
But seriously, here’s the secret to wearing these fancy pants: with flare jeans, styling is key.
The trick to a great pair lies somewhere between the hem, and what top style to wear with them. So here it goes:
- THE PERFECT HEM: With a flare, it’s extremely important to get the right hem length. If you go too short, a wide flare can look unflattering and cut your leg off at a bad spot. If you keep the flare (or bell) too long, you’ll end up stomping all over them (and not in the cool 90s grunge way.) Your best bet is to head to a tailor with several pairs of shoes you plan on wearing with them. A good tailor will have you try on the flare jeans with different heel heights to see how they pair up, and at what length the hem will look best. (NOTE: The perfect hemline will look best where it is almost – but not quite – skimming the floor.)
- THE RIGHT TOP: The perfect top for a great pair of flare jeans flatters your waist. Try to picture the silhouette of flare jeans – tapered waist and more defined thighs with a bell at the leg; a top should complement that look. I love a flare with a higher waist, that way, most tops look great with the jeans:
- a crop top,
- a box top,
- a tunic or coat – belted,
- a loose shirt tucked in, even just a bit; or topped with a structured blazer, vest or sweater (the key with a looser top is to tuck in or hold in place to keep that waist. defined!)
If you’re on the hunt for a perfect pair of flare jeans for fall, you might want to check out some of the amazing pairs below, in every price range. I’m particularly smitten with these dark-washed Rag & Bone bell bottoms (FYI: Rag & Bone makes the most amazing denim!), this perfectly distressed pair by Blank Denim under $90, and this sleek pair of black Victoria Beckham flare jeans.
SHOP A FEW GREAT PAIRS / CLICK LEFT & RIGHT ARROWS TO EXPLORE
A traditional flare is great, but there are plenty of takes on the slim bell and a wider, exaggerated flare. The options are varied and awesome.
Images via Style of Sam featuring an awesome shoot, Chic at Every Age: Flare Jeans, Photography by Mary Summers // A House in the Hills // Devon Rachel // Song of Style // Et pourquoi pas Coline // Prosecco & Plaid
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I’m OBSESSED with flare jeans! If only I could fit into some right now.. wah wah!! : (
Kayla
http://www.lovelucygirl.com
Love this post! So true!! I am loving the bell bottom trend!
xo,
Sara Kate Styling
I had no idea that Rag&Bone had good jeans– I’ll definitely check them out! And I’m glad that flare is back; more flattering on some of us petite people than skinny jeans!
I’m so excited this trend is back and I love the higher rise. Amazing inspiration!
Wishes & Reality
Just bought a couple of flare jeans at a thrift shop. They were so so good! I even wanted to wear them right when I got ’em. I LOVE IT!
Yay! I love hearing that! 🙂