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How to Wear Wide Leg Pants

By , About.com Guide

Mixit Coin Pocket Wide Leg Jeans, $24.99, www.jcpenney.com.

Photo courtesy of JCPenney.
Super-skinny jeans were all the rage this summer, so for fall many designers decided to go to the opposite side of the spectrum and introduce mile-wide flares. So, after we'd all finally figured out how to flaunt our skinnies, we have a new pant silhouette to tackle. No worries, though – just follow these tips, and you'll be in fine fashionista form in no time!
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: Less than One Hour

Here's How:

  1. Know Your Body Type:

    The biggest key to making wide legs look flattering is choosing the right pair for your frame. If you are tall you can afford to go extra-wide with your flares, but if you're petite, a more modest leg will look the best. For pear-shaped gals, a flare that begins below the knee will balance out curvy hips.

  2. Balance the Silhouette:

    To keep from looking overly slouchy, a slim-fitting blouse is an ideal counterpoint to wide legs. Look for a top in a lightweight fabric that skims the body, and definitely tuck it in your pants.

  3. Use Color to Your Benefit:

    Just like how black dresses visually slim the body, dark washes do the same for wide leg pants. For the most figure-trimming effect you can always choose black, but chocolate brown or indigo colored fabrics do the trick, too.

  4. Add Lift with High Heels:

    To avoid overwhelming your frame, try pairing flares with chunky high-heeled pumps or boots. The extra height will visually elongate your silhouette.

  5. Wear a Belt to Define the Waist:

    Lastly, to make sure that your waistline doesn't get lost amid the folds of fabric, cinch a belt on the top of your pants to show off your middle.

  6. Hit the Town:

    Now get out there and flaunt those flares, girls!

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