Sad as it is, summer is quickly coming to a close, but despite the sadness brought on by closed patios and back to school, fall fashions make cool temperatures and shorter nights that much more bearable. And while sweaters, dresses, skirts and boots make up a good portion of an autumn collection, we all know pants are the backbone. Here are four of the hottest pants for fall 2010 and how you can wear them.
Classic Trousers
Like the 50s have returned with full skirts and fitted waists, classic fashion has also translated to pants with well-tailored women’s trousers that boast fitted or gentlemen silhouettes that have brought back the looks pioneered by the likes of Katharine Hepburn. Designers like 3.1 Philip Lim (seen at left) have added shot of bold colour to a classic pant, while Michael Kors has developed a peg-leg pant with a paperbag waist (perfect for well-fitted cashmere or a short-sleeve button up), while Gucci have helped hone the evening trouser – a high-waisted pant, with a leg-lengthening bootcut, ideally worn with heels. However, if designer styles are out of your price range, fear not: chains like H&M carry nearly every “in-demand” trouser style, helping you to achieve the season’s ultimate practise in versatility.
Slim Cropped
Also known as cigarette pants, this go-to look for fall is cut slightly above the ankle and maintains the vintage elegance of Audrey Hepburn “ who some may remember helped advertise Gap’s version of this classic silhouette once upon a time. This season, the look returns and, staying true to the year’s pre-existing fashion legacy, takes edginess and accessibility to new heights and helps to maintain a refined aesthetic. Whether paired with a dress shirt and heels for a formal feel or flats with an oversize sweater for an effortless, vintage vibe, stores like Urban Outfitters, Gap and TopShop have embraced the trend wholeheartedly “ marking cigarette trousers as the must-have look for fall 2010.
Super Skinny
Years ago, we thought the skinny was simply a one-season fad, but after years of structuring ensembles around the iconic fit, its staying power has become obvious. Sitting below the waist and tapered tightly to the ankle, the skinny is ideal for ankle boots and penny loafers, and compliments oversize vintage blouses perfectly with its slim silhouette. And what’s especially great is its versatility: brands like Gap boast a sexy, sophisticated version with its new Black Magic fit, while American Eagle combines jeggings and traditional jeans for a casual, accessible look.
Boyfit
What we thought was previously reserved solely for summer afternoons and gladiator sandals has made a comeback this season, with its worn and thrifted look working perfectly with the minimalist trend debuting this fall. While its bagginess may seem opposed to the tailored aesthetics currently gracing runways, it balances fitted sweaters and solid-toned t-shirts, maintaining an effortless feel that keeps in line with what’s in demand. This season, chains like Gap have borrowed from the ever-popular menswear trend, offering a more tailored boyfit that carries off nonchalant cool.
alfie saden
alfie saden