2 Mar 2018
Antonia O'Brien is a TV host and fashion writer
The love child of the Bermuda short and loose-fit flare, culottes have been hot news in the past few seasons, and they're the perfect piece to revisit in this unpredictable August weather. Whether styled for the office or worn to a black tie dinner, the culotte is as versatile as it is stylish. Here's what I've learned from road-testing the trend.
DO balance their voluminous shape with a fitted top-half. Try wearing your culottes with cropped cashmere, a tucked-in blouse, strapless bustier or simple fitted vest.
DON'T be haunted by their old Nineties reputation; this time around they’re sleek, modern and nothing like your school uniform
DO mix-up feminine and tomboy styling by wearing your culottes with Vans or boyish loafers
DON'T wear culottes with a baggy ill-fitting top - you want something which tucks in to highlight the waistband, drawing attention to the smallest part of your waist
DO lengthen the leg by choosing a longer length culotte that hits at the lower calf and accentuates the slim of the ankle
DON'T think they are only for summer! Be inspired by autumn’s sixties and seventies looks and wear your culottes with sexy over-the-knee boots and a shearling coat
DO reference the Fifties and Sixties and co-ordinate your culottes with a top or jacket in the same colour or shade.
DO mix fabrics and finishes for an expensive high-end look - think leather with wool, silk with cashmere or even neoprene with tweed
DO style your culottes with a trapeze-like top that skims and creates a beautifully fluid silhouette
DON'T be put off wearing culottes because they're not conventionally sexy - a crop top or bustier with a fierce heel will make for a powerfully sexy look
DO dress up a denim pair with platforms and a ribbed knit for that Almost Famous look
DO choose an elegantly slinky pair as a cool alternative to a dress for the evening
DO still embrace the culottes trend if you're petite. Look for a hem that sits just below the knee and style with a substantial heel to create the illusion of longer legs.
Haven't bought a pair yet? Here are a few on sale now that we love
Zara, £29
Asos.com, £35
Whistles, £140
How To Wear Culottes If You're Short
