This ensemble was inspired by two modern retro looks from Express that feel fresh for Fall. They combine flared trousers or culottes with a soft tucked blouse. They chose a fringed suede jacket as a topper, but a fitted blazer is just as ‘70s, and easier to pull together for this outfit formula.
I’ve chosen black, white, cognac and burgundy here but feel free to choose any colour palette. Here are the components:
Flared Bottoms: Think flared trousers or jeans that are fitted in the hips and thighs for structure. Think culottes in all iterations as an option in wet and soggy weather. And although I haven’t included the silhouette here, think cropped jeans with kick flares too. They look great with booties with higher shafts. Neutrals are easy to style but don’t overlook colours like rust and burgundy either.
Romantic Blouse: You’re after a soft blouse with a romantic touch in a solid or pattern. Think blouses with neck ties, bows, ruffles, lace or flounces. Wear it tucked into the bottoms, or untucked over the bottoms. You might find that the untucked version works better with full length flares instead of culottes.
Topper: The topper is optional. Choose a fitted blazer or a suede jacket that works with the colour palette for an extra ‘70s integrity.
Footwear: Pointy toe footwear with low or high heels works best with full length flares. Knee-high boots, ankle strap footwear, cut-out booties, pumps and booties with higher shafts work well with cropped flares like culottes. Choose a colour that works with the rest of the outfit. I’ve chosen black, cognac and animal print because they look more ‘70s.
Accessories: Finish off the look with a fringed bag or hobo for a retro touch, or keep it modern and simple with a clutch or tote. Add jewellery, eyewear and watch as desired.
I’ve sported my version of this ensemble a few times already. I combined light blue flared jeans with a white neck tie blouse, studded cognac belt and animal print booties. On a chillier day I added my equestrian Smythe jacket because it’s very fitted and the elbow patches work with the cognac in the rest of the outfit. For a modern touch, I finished off the look with green specs and neon clutch.
