You may know culottes as really cute pants, but they’ve actually made quite a statement in history. Before it was “socially acceptable” for women to wear trousers, they wore this style that allowed them to play sports in the 1930s. In making their leap to wearing full-on trousers, this piece started as a “divided skirt”—also known as pants concealed by ruffles or panels. But despite their similarities to skirts, culottes caused quite the outrage in the fashion world.
Fortunately, this piece has come a long way since the middle of the 20th century, and people everywhere are now free to enjoy them as they please. Lately, they’ve been making a strong comeback that’s showing up all over the Instagram grids of our College Fashionista community members. Understandably, the voluminous nature of culottes can make them intimidating, so we’ve taken it upon ourselves to show you how to style them with your everyday wardrobe. Whether you’re festival hopping or heading to the office, here are six easy ways to make this piece work in 2018.
Balance Volume With a Crop Top for an Unexpected Date-Night Look
Take your culottes from work to play with a midriff-baring cami and slouchy kimono. Kitten heel mules give this date night look a sassy touch.
Get this look: Nordstrom Mimi Chica Black Velvet Culottes ($30); Urban Outfitters Crushed Velvet Cropped Tank Top ($15); Free People Little Wing Mix Print Kimono ($68)
Add an Oversize Sweatshirt for a Chic Take on Athleisure
Swap your leggings for culottes to create the ultimate comfort look for class. If you want to take it a step further, layer on a leather jacket and black shades for model-off-duty vibes.
Get this look: Urban Outfitters Silence and Noise Lara Cropped Culotte ($30), H&M Short Hooded Sweatshirt ($18), Lulu’s Vegan Leather Jacket ($71), Ray-Ban Ericka Classic ($143)
Throw on an Off-the-Shoulder Blouse for Easy Weekend Wear
Morning brunch and afternoon errands? This ensemble is Saturday-approved. Casual denim culottes and a slouchy top with booties is an easy outfit that has a colorful punch.
Get this look: ASOS Rigid Cropped Flare Jeans ($60), H&M Creped Blouse ($30), Style & Co Jamila Zip Booties ($80)
Get Festival Ready With a Cut-Off Tee
Shine bright while you enjoy the live music with a metallic pair of culottes. Pair with a sporty crop top for an effortless, carefree look that will last you through a full day of sunshine and jams.
Get this look: Nasty Gal Watch This Space Metallic Pant ($36), Forever 21 Cropped Active Hooded Crop Top ($13)
Exude Serious Chill in a Cool Printed Blazer
Wondering what to pack on your spring break beach getaway? White culottes are the answer. Try pairing them with a statement jacket and round glasses.
Get this look: H&M White Denim Culottes ($30), ASOS Jacquard Biker Jacket ($87)
Embrace Your Casual Side With a Graphic T-Shirt
Get cozy by pairing your favorite tee and sneakers with extra-roomy culottes. This easygoing outfit is bound to be your go-to come spring.
Get this look: Free People Need You Printed Tee ($38), ASOS Tailored Easy Elasticated Waist Soft Culottes ($35)
How do you style your culottes? Post your #OOTD on Instagram and tag @cfashionista!
Featured photo by @pauliinavartola.
