YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Wardrobe Building: Pants

YouLookFab Forum » Topic: Wardrobe Building: Pants https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants Style Advice for Fashion Lovers en-US Mon, 20 Apr 2026 08:13:51 +0000 http://bbpress.org/?v=1.0.2 <![CDATA[Search]]> q https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/search.php Inge on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280449 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 20:12:09 +0000 Inge 1280449@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Thanks so much, Shannon!-) And: right back at ya!! Glad to see Angie chimed in about the slouchy pants too. I vote give them a try for sure!-) Ledonna N. on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280371 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 18:26:12 +0000 Ledonna N. 1280371@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Hey Alana when me and my sisters were kids my mother took us to the local Y.M.C.A. To teach us how to swim. She literally pushed us in and said swim. It felt like the deep end and boy did we cry and make all type of excuses to get out of that pool. Little did I know that while I and my sister were crying we were actually doggie paddling to stay afloat. Long story short sometimes you have to just go for it. Missteps will be along the way but with each step will become more confident. Don't beat yourself up for the choices you make love yourself and your body before long you will be swimming like an expert. Angie on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280365 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 18:09:37 +0000 Angie 1280365@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Alana, I echo everything Inge said. I LOVE her examples. Think of slouchy pants as relaxed instead of sloppy, and you don't need to go too baggy. PLEASE wear white - but in the form of jeans or wide linen pants. The colour will work beautifully with your hair.  Also echo what abc and Beth Ann wrote. Two stylish role models who make perfect practical sense.  BF jeans fit into the slouchy category, but can be slim-fit if you know what I mean. I vote get those first. Tube skirts are next.  You will get there, Alana. And it is our pleasure to help you. xo Thistle on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280362 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 18:04:10 +0000 Thistle 1280362@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I would check out Talbots. They have machine washable fabrics, classic cuts, and even yes, they do white and boyfriend cuts. Sejour at Nordstrom's also has some nice pieces and I have found them to wear very well. Alana in Canada on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280310 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 17:09:21 +0000 Alana in Canada 1280310@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ LadyWone--I love how you have such fun with your clothes. I'll get there! Harem pants are a bit of a leap for me today--but who can say about tomorrow?  Gaylene--bless you! We have some here--and close to me, actually.  I have started a new post with pictures of all of the clothing that counts for this capsule.  <a rel="nofollow" href="http://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/the-wardrobe-today">http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....robe-today</a> Thanks for all your help. Gaylene on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280274 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 16:04:57 +0000 Gaylene 1280274@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ My plus-sized, curvy friend has had great success with FDJ pants which are carried in a lot of boutique stores across Canada. She wears the Olivia cut which comes in many different styles and colours. The price point is usually between $50-$100 dollars and the pants wash and wear very well. <a href="http://www.frenchdressingjeans.com/look-book-essentials.php?id=14&type=olivia#" rel="nofollow">http://www.frenchdressingjeans.....pe=olivia#</a> Ledonna N. on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280249 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 15:20:57 +0000 Ledonna N. 1280249@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Inge and everyone has really great Ideas.  For me I like Harem pants especially for summer. Alana in Canada on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280227 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 15:05:14 +0000 Alana in Canada 1280227@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Oh my, ladies, I am overwhelmed by your generosity. Basically, you have all given me permission to get white if I want--and any cut I like! I think I will stick ith something below the knee for now: it is where I have my "gap." (This is all so strange to me. For years and years all I ever wore was one pair of pants per season. Now I have four all together and say I have a "gap."  The Vince Camuto skirt is intriguing. I don't know what "boyfriend jeans" are, really. I'll have to ask the salespreson to show me when I go in on Wednesday. (I thought I'd try Laura's). Slouchy pants? Really Inge? I'd have to see them on, of course, but my first reaction is that they're much too "sloppy" for someone my size. I loved the pair I had the last time they were popular, though. (When was that? 80's? 90's?) Grey jeans? I've never heard of them. I'll look and see if there's some around. An actual colour can be my third pair of pants. Straight leg or moderate skinny, or relaxed skinny--check. I'll try some. oooh ponte--I do have a pair--but they are 20lbs too small (sad face) and they are a very heavy weight, for me, for summer. But, yes, you've reminded me, they are very slim at the ankle and I felt like Marilyn Monroe in them (and of course, I was 20-30 pounds lighter.) Those Sloane's you linked to Inge are sublime. Blast, just checked, Nordstrom is coming to Canada, but not my town. :( Thanks for the pictures, Beth Anne. You look very smart. abc--yes, I saw Angie's post on the shoes. I tried on a pair of silver sandals from Naturalizer on Sunday--so so nice----but I have trouble with being able to bend down and reach buckles properly...so I am deciding whether I want to struggle five minutes per shoe or not. (TMI?) And yes, I need more colourful tops! I will throw on the tops I do have and post them momentarily. Beth Ann on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280204 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 14:28:45 +0000 Beth Ann 1280204@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Sounds like wardrobe rebuilding is underway!  As for bottoms, I think you could use another pair of jeans, too -- something updated, but still classic, like a slim (but not super skinny) pair in a dark wash that you could cuff, a baby boot cut (they're back, and flattering), or a pair of boyfriend jeans, rolled at the bottom. I adore my white jeans, and wear them even the winter (see pic two).  You don't have to be small -- these are US 14.  I have to spot treat them before I launder, but I am far from tidy and have had not problems getting them clean, even in a house with two 12 year olds!  I cook in them, just wearing an apron! For jeans, I love Levis.  Classic and reasonable in price.  I'm a bit more hourglass than apple, but, at 51, I have some apple tendencies!  Photos 3&4 are Levi's midrise skinnies.  I also like their 525 straight leg, which is a slim straight leg.  These are US 14, but they have a large range of sizes. I think your outfits are going to be hugely influenced by your top selections.  In general, I think the rule of "3 tops for each bottom" is pretty close.  Banded bottom sweaters and woven tops are a great option beyond the typical knit tops that are worn untucked.  Can you describe or take a photo of 2-3 of your favorite tops? So glad you're here!  It can be overwhelming at first, but lots of fun.  Just choose one idea at a time and start with a single step! abc on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280193 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 14:03:29 +0000 abc 1280193@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ What Inge said.   I was a 16-18 before losing some weight recently, and at either size the following were/are absolute workhorses in my wardrobe, and my lifestyle is much like yours, MOTG and WFH. VC Tube Skirts ... and don't be afraid of stripes, even wide ones.  On this skirt they do something magical (as in make you look longer, leaner and slimmer).  As a 16/18 I still only wore an XL so keep that in mind (some say size up but I did not, you just need to try them on to see how they fit). Ponte knit pants.  I can highly recommend the VC ponte straight pants, I got mine at Nordstrom but maybe you can find them locally.  These are similar (link to plus size for you) <a rel="nofollow" href="http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/vince-camuto-stretch-trousers-plus-size/3493440?origin=category-personalizedsort&contextualcategoryid=0&fashionColor=&resultback=480&cm_sp=personalizedsort-_-browseresults-_-1_2_C">http://shop.nordstrom.com/s/vi.....y-personal</a> I see you have a nice denim jacket.  I use the formulas below a LOT for easy dressing VC tube skirt + colorful top + denim jacket ponte pants + colorful top + denim jacket Those formulas consistently make polished outfits with little effort.  Are they the most fashion forward?  No.  But they are light years ahead of yoga pants (sorry but you are making the right choice here to keep those for at home).  The tube skirts and ponte pants are JUST as comfy as the yoga pants but are 1000x more fashionable. In google an ad popped up for 25% off via the VC website, just wanted to mention, might be worth checking out. Another thing to mention, a pair or two of fab shoes can really up your style quotient easily.  Take a look at Angie's picks because she always includes some very comfortable shoes (and yesterday there was a blog post highlighting one pair in particular). Transcona Shannon on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280179 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 13:52:19 +0000 Transcona Shannon 1280179@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Inge - I've said it before and I'll say it again, you are FABULOUS Inge on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280100 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 11:39:19 +0000 Inge 1280100@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Here are some pante knit pants: <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.jny.com/The-Sloane-Pant-in-Ponte-Knit-(Plus)/27415966,default,pd.html?variantSizeClass=&variantColor=JJ7XTA1&cgid=22962208&prefn1=catalog-id&prefv1=jonesny-catalog&ep_tag=AF200905">http://www.jny.com/The-Sloane-.....ss=&v</a> <a rel="nofollow" href="http://www.nydj.com/trouser-in-ponte-knit-plus/d/2346?utm_source=pjn&utm_medium=affiliate&utm_campaign=20648&cvosrc=affiliate.pepperjam.20648">http://www.nydj.com/trouser-in.....utm_campai</a> Inge on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280097 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 11:27:37 +0000 Inge 1280097@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I forgot to say, if you'd like to add a skirt to your wardrobe, then I can highly recommend the Vince Camuto midi tube skirts. Many Fabbers have one in their closet and they are absolutely fantastic. Flattering, perfect for warmer weather (but can transition into Fall too) and sooooo comfortable!! Inge on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280092 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 11:17:18 +0000 Inge 1280092@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I completely understand the "fear of white bottoms", Alana, but I am also convinced that you could rock a pair of white jeans (full length, or rolled BF's or long shorts). Have you read Angie's tips for feeling fab in white bottoms? <a rel="nofollow" href="http://youlookfab.com/2014/02/10/12-tips-for-feeling-fab-in-white-bottoms/">http://youlookfab.com/2014/02/.....e-bottoms/</a> Wearing white jeans or pants with a tunic style top, or a top or pullover with high-low hemline or asymmetrical detailing might be a good starting point because they provide more coverage. Or sport them with a regular top and add your long drapey cardigan from your other thread? One of the things that came to mind (as mentioned on your other thread too) is a pair of ponte knit pants. Just as comfy as yoga pants, but it immediately adds more polish in my book. I also like the idea of grey jeans of a different colour jean for you. Or getting light-wash jeans for Summer if you've only been wearing dark denim can change things up too. Maybe a straight leg or relaxed skinny jean. How do you feel about boyfriend jeans? That could be a very fun and on trend silhouette too. Ooh and I also love the idea of slouchy trousers. They can also be crazy comfortable, and are very stylish and breezy for Summer. Is that something you would feel fab wearing, Alana? Here are some examples: Desmo April on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280039 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 07:04:44 +0000 Desmo April 1280039@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ Once I get past my never fail dark denim and black jeans I've also gotten a ton of wear out of my grey jeans. I'm terrified to do white because I'm a total slob, I'd get something on them immediately. I've seen it done very well in bigger sizes though. Don't be too afraid of color, I get a fair amount of wear out of my brick red jeans. I'm a similar size and my standard cut is a straight leg or a moderate skinny. I do have tight skinnies as well but they are really only to tuck into boots.Since I'm short and round I feel more streamlined in a slimmer cut. Elizabeth P on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280030 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 06:39:42 +0000 Elizabeth P 1280030@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I vote dark denim, slim, to just below the knee. Longer than typical shorts, shorter than capris. Pedal pushers. It's too bad you are scared of white, I get a ton of wear out of my white boyfriend jeans. columbine(erin) on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280026 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 06:02:39 +0000 columbine(erin) 1280026@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ One thought is that at Lands End you can choose the inseam on a lot of the pants. You could get a few basics there. Not the most fashion forward perhaps. But I like their pants. Alana in Canada on "Wardrobe Building: Pants" https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/topic/wardrobe-building-pants#post-1280022 Tue, 17 Jun 2014 05:43:03 +0000 Alana in Canada 1280022@https://youlookfab.com/welookfab/ I am currently building a wardrobe from basically nothing. This wardrobe is not for work--and I would call it "smart casual." It's basically a Mom on the Go wardrobe, where Mom is 50 (with teenaged kids) and wants to be a bit polished.  I have one pair of jeans, and three other black bottoms, recently purchased. (Yoga pants, now relegated to "at home" wear only, a skort, and a pair of knee length shorts.)  I am thinking I'd like another pair of pants...something below the knee.  The first consideration is colour. I'd love to get white, but I am deathly afraid of it. I am a busty, curvy apple: I am afraid white will make me look like a big old cotton ball. Plus I am pale and my hair is silver. As well, I have no clue if I will be able to keep it clean. I'm not really interested in a colour, yet, and beige bores me. Second, cut. My jeans are the same width at my ankle as they are at my thigh--I would like to try something a little slimmer from the knee down so I have the option of rolling. But I do not want to look like a leg of lamb, either.  Third, fabric. I have fairly limited options at my size, (22, 24) so I don't want to be picky here, but if you have any thoughts, I'd love to hear them.  Any thoughts on how to proceed? I plan on hitting the stores in a couple of days. Thanks.