so how does classic style merge with trends? very carefully. unless it’s denim which i’m never averse to sneaking into my closet. and it’s on sale. like this pair, i found for a song. when they arrived, i was stumped as to what shoes to wear. and shoes make or break the outfit so choosing the correct footwear is key. then i decided to pair these beauties (also on sale end of the season) with my new denim and i knew my problem was solved. the block heel is high and has a weight to it that balances the wide-leg jeans. also, when i’m testing the trend waters, i anchor the outfit with wardrobe classics. first, the color scheme is quintessential black and white. second, a black tee and white blazer are core basics and belong in everyone’s closet. third, a hobo bag is not only classic but lends a casual-chic ‘tude that this ootd needed. and while these culotte jeans aren’t everyone’s cup of tea i’m thinking you just might see these again before summer’s end.
labels: denim J.Crew; tee Ann Taylor; jacket Christopher and Banks; sandals J.Crew (similar here and here); handbag Michael Kors (similar here and here); lipstick Clueless
is the Founder and CEO of Style at a Certain Age. She writes Sundays-Fridays on all topics ranging from fashion, health, wellness, home design and more.
She’s 65, 5’8, and size 8.
You are right…trends can be tricky…done right they are fab!-Laurel Bledsoe
I’m actually quite fond of the cropped pants that widen at the ankle–with a cropped top or slim top, and a great shoe, they are very cute. I love this. And honestly, with my RA-riddled knees, they are a welcome fit for me. My knees hurt me constantly, and I don’t like to wear pants that are tight or constricting around my legs any longer. People tell me they like the wider pants when I wear them, and I think…if they only knew why I am wearing them.
Sue Smith’s comment really hit home with me. My right knee is misshapen and about 1 inch larger than my left one because of 2 knee surgeries. The skinnies I used to wear, simply don’t fit or are much too constricting around my sensitive knees. I like the wide leg jeans and also have a great fitting pair of black wool cropped pants from Club Monaco that fit really well. Summer will be a lot easier for me than winter because all the wide pants I saw were cropped.
A pleasant change from all the tight skinny pants out there! Do love the black tee & white jacket with the denim! Mary Albers PS Love the shoes, but alas, my poor feet can’t wear heels anymore!
I liked what you mentioned about shoes—they can make or break an outfit. It can be a challenge if you have foot issues or can’t wear certain styles. Your sandals complete this look. I was glad you reminded women about hems the other day—the shorter the hem the lower the heel. I see these women wearing stilettos with short dresses and it gives them a sort of giraffe look or like they might fall forward face first. Proportion really matters!
Such great points. I tried these jeans on and thought I looked ridiculous but the way you’re wearing them they look fabulous. Maybe I need to rethink them. Wearing trendy with classic items is a great idea.
You are so right, those shoes just make this outfit work! I love it and I love your hair.
🙂 gwingal
Love the way you have mixed classics with a trend. I have some jeans similar to those but with the hem intact. Interesting comments regarding skinny pants…it really is nice to see a little different profile. Love the polish color! xoxo