Striped pants are—in my opinion—the most charming type of trousers. The offbeat alternative to a traditional pair of jeans or trousers is actually quite easy to pull off, making them a permanent fixture in many a fashion-lover’s wardrobe. Plus, the pattern options are endless—the style comes in nearly every silhouette and hue under the sun, so it’s pretty much impossible to get bored wearing them. Feeling ready to take the plunge? Let the styling tips below guide you in the right direction as to how to style striped pants.
Play With Neutral Separates for an Unexpected Monochromatic Look
Striped pants pair well with a checked blazer for a perfect mix of patterns. Consider using similar tones of color. This monochromatic color scheme is just subtle enough to create an unexpected combination.
Get this look: Zara Buttoned Check Blazer ($70); Banana Republic Logan Trouser-Fit Stripe Pant Navy ($66)
Offset Loud Pants With a Soft Color
Not sure how to pull off bright-red trousers? Pair the eye-catching lines with a quieter hue. A baby-pink top will balance out the ensemble and bring it into spring while a classic leather jacket will add toughness to an otherwise soft look.
Get this Look: Urban Outfitters Striped Satin Wide-Leg Puddle Pants ($69); ASOS Leather Jacket With Ring Pull Details ($143); Topshop Knot Front Love T-shirt ($30)
Pair With Statement Shoes for Extra Impact
If one daring item isn’t enough for you, don’t be afraid to wear your stripes with another bold piece. You can’t go wrong with a black-and-red combination, so wear your trousers with boots in fall’s It color. Throw on a white denim jacket for a casual finish.
Get this Look: Ash Fedora Embroidered Booties ($99); Uniqlo Extra-Fine Merino Ribbed Turtleneck Sweater ($10); Hewes Double Waist Pants ($116); The Fifth Label Symphony Ruffle Trim Denim Jacket ($128)
Refine Your Prints With Polished Accessories
Wide-leg pants are the best way to feel comfortable and still look put together. Choose a fun striped pair for a little pizazz and add some elegance to the laid back style with a structured bag and a jacket thrown over your shoulders.
Get this Look: J.Crew Convertible Clutch ($118); Steve Madden Alpha Slide Sandal ($70); Express High-Waisted Sash Waist Wide Leg Pants ($80)
Wear With Easy Basics for a Laid-Back Look
This look is about as effortless as it gets. If you’re looking to keep things sleek and simple, wear your gray striped pants with a black turtleneck and classic Vans. The minimalistic vibe of the look will allow the print to stand out.
Get this Look: Madewell Whisper Cotton Turtleneck ($20); Splendid Striped Cropped Pants ($128); Vans Old Skool ($60)
Tone Down Patterns With a Black-on-Black Pairing
If you struggle with prints, the best solution is to keep it straightforward. Go monochromatic with black-on-black by pairing a solid ruffled blouse with dark striped trousers. The addition of plain loafers will solidify this as the perfect low-key look for the pattern-averse.
Get this Look: Steven Santana Loafers ($78); Banana Republic Sloan Skinny-Fit Striped Pants ($98); Asos Petite Off Shoulder Top in Fitted Rib ($23)
Balance Bold Bottoms With a Structured Jacket
So you’ve upgraded your classic trousers to a bold printed pair. Now how do you make them office-appropriate? A refined jacket will do the trick. Gray leather is a sophisticated addition to black-and-white bottoms while a white top with a pop of color keeps things fun.
Get this Look: Sincerely Jules Lips and Lashes Tee ($49); Forever 21 High-Waist Striped Palazzo Pants ($23); Missguided Faux-Suede Biker Jacket ($34)
How do you style your striped pants? Let us know in the comments below!
Featured photo by @vanessa.medel.
