Goodbye Skinny, Hello ’70s Flare!

Born and raised to squeeze into those itty-bitty skinny jeans and ridiculous jeggings (admit it: you’ve at least tried on a pair), we’ve been trained to slide a leg into one tight-fitting leg sleeve after the other. But who’s complaining when our tush looks so good and legs so long? Times are changing, yet again.

Derek Lam, ADAM, Tory Burch, Spring RTW 2011 Photos: Imaxtree

The ’70s-style flare leg is back and, unbeknownst to many, their reprise during the late ’80s and early ’90s and then again in the early 2000s was constructed differently in boot-cut, low-rise or slouchy fit. Flare leg pants are a tricky piece to adopt in a world of cigarette jeans, but despite what critics or friends say, whether you’re tall or short, slim or wide, it suits any body type. Just be sure to follow these tips and tricks below—flared jeans are a staple, but don’t forget to play with colors! We’ll find ourselves shelving away those smothering monsters we call jeans. Fashionistas are doing it!

Photos: Courtesy of WhereDidUGetThat, That's Chic, Denim Therapy (left to right)

Fashion bloggers Karen Blanchard and Rachel Nguyen balanced the comfort of flares with loose jackets and white tees, mimicking that same flowy feel and opted to hide their shoes to give the illusion of longer, leaner legs. German model Claudia Schiffer opted to offset the wide legs with a tucked in button-down shirt and added a braided brown belt to separate the pieces. She also let her peep-toe shoes peek out thus giving a go-getter vibe while Karen and Rachel are on the chill side of things. Celebrities are all over it!

Photos: Courtesy of People, ELLE, Denimology (left to right)

The ever-proper and prim Katie Holmes personalized the flare jeans trend by adding an airy blouse and chic signature Chanel tweed jacket. Notice her pointy shoes add on to her classy ensemble. Gwenyth Paltrow dressed casually in a New Yorker-inspired outfit playing with the light jeans in contrast to her dark blazer. The effortless shrug from the scarf says casual cool. Kourtney Kardashian put a twist into the flare jeans trend by adding a silk detailed blouse instantly making a normal day outfit appropriate for a night out. Now, go buy a pair!