Styling trousers

Amy

For the first time in years, I have a decent set of trousers. They are comfortable and made reasonably well. This is another pair of Banana Republic Martins.

I'm concerned that this style of trousers when worn with the tops in my wardrobe make me look schlumpy.

For instance, in this outfit, is the slouchy top with the non skinny bottoms too much volume overall?

What are some things I can do to make outfits with this style of pants more current?

Thank you!

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13 years ago

Urgent

14 replies

Latest reply was from Amy

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

When I wear this combination, I wear a more delicate sweater untucked and scrunch the sleeves. I have photos on my pinterest board that provide good visuals but I can't upload them here because you're on the app. I will start another thread.

13 years ago

Angie

(website)

Fashion Stylist

Just posted this for you:

http://youlookfab.com/welookfa.....d-pullover

13 years ago

Sveta

(website)

Veteran

You and me, Amy, you and me! I have also noticed with surprise that my trouser collecton actually surpassed my skirt collection inspite of my whining of not being able to find well fitting trousers <wink on Angie>
What I found that it is important to add some modern twist to classic trousers to keep them current. Semituck with a cool belt, layering a shorter sweater over a button down shirt when shirttails, collar and cuffs are exposed, cropped chunky sweater...This is what comes to mind right now but I am sure there are more.
Enjoy you fab trousers and please post what you come up with!:-)

13 years ago

rachylou

Veteran

I have this problem too. Thank you for bringing it up!

So... Eh. I have to see what I have by way of fine gauge sweaters. Probably zero, since I'm always thinking bulky because I'm always cold.

13 years ago

Inge

(website)

Moderator

Love the colour of the sweater on you, Amy.
Angie's examples are totally my cup of tea, and the things Sveta suggests are also things that have worked for me.
Try adding in a little textural or visual interest or pattern too: e.g. a pair of patterned or animal print booties, an argyle print, polka dot, colour-blocked or striped sweater, a button-down (sleeves scrunched or rolled up) with a sweater vest. Add a cropped leather jacket or denim jacket. Perhaps a plaid or gingham shirt? ...

Here are a few more visuals for inspiration:
http://pinterest.com/pin/246642517063684134/

http://pinterest.com/pin/246642517063543547/

http://pinterest.com/pin/246642517063128609/

http://pinterest.com/pin/257338566178975024/

13 years ago

Lisa

Veteran

Great question. I am very aware of the length when weraing trousers. I find tops have to end a little shorter (or be tucked) to see the waistline. With jeans I tend to go slightly more form fitting.

13 years ago

Carole

Veteran

You make such an excellent observation that I relate to, as well. I have felt frumpy in my slacks unless I wear something slim fitting on top which then seems sort of dated, hmmm. Gonna check out all the recommendations here. Thanks for posting!!!!!

13 years ago

unfrumped

Veteran

Good question. I have this same issue! I rely on my standard AT tropical wool work trousers but often feel the result is very blah. Not putting any personal style stamp on them with other parts of the outfit. Sure I can aim for slimmer pants, but it would be great if I could add more of the elements that take the trouser look up a notch.

Will see if I can work in some of these suggestions.

13 years ago

Amy

(website)

Veteran

It's good to know I'm not alone in this. Angie, you are the best! Thanks for the suggestions.

Scents, I'm going to study your outfits again, since your rousers outfits have so much panache.

13 years ago

Amy

(website)

Veteran

Inge,thanks for those examples. I'm feeling inspired.

13 years ago

Jaime

(website)

Veteran

Ooh, great examples. Can't wait to see you implement Amy!

13 years ago

sarah

Veteran

I was just thinking about this today (when I wore trousers and a sweater). I added a scarf, booties, and a jacket to try to update the look, but I think my booties are looking a bit blah, and the whole outfit would have been taken up a notch by more modern ones. (My trouser are straight legs, BTW). So, i agree with Sveta - adding an element or two to make the look more fashion forward is a good trick.

13 years ago

Laura (rhubarbgirl)

(website)

Veteran

Looking at the picture, my first thought is that I want the sweater to be shorter. I feel like too much of your waistline is elided. Maybe it's a proportion thing?

P.s. I totally covet your phone case; too cute...

13 years ago

Amy

(website)

Veteran

You're probably right about the sweater length, Laura. I'd love to find some shorter ones, but they don't seem to be trendy right now.

Thanks for your help!

13 years ago

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