My next post from my reader suggestions has to do with keeping style fun, without diving off the deep end in to trashy. Specifically, how does one wear colorful bottoms without looking like they stepped out of one of those mall stores that does custom airbrushing (you know exactly what I am talking about)? First and foremost, I am so glad that colored pants are a thing now. They add so much variety to a wardrobe, especially in an area that has been virtually unchanged for years. They keep things interesting when indigo denim is too pedestrian. If you don't think colorful pants are something you can rock, then you are probably wrong.
Fit first. With every type of clothing it is important to first discern what fits and cuts are the most flattering on your body. Additionally, ask yourself what seasons you are aiming to wear these particular bottoms during. Personally, my collection of colored bottoms specifically lend themselves to spring and summer wear, with a few that make the cut into fall. I don't have anything for the winter season, only because I haven't found anything I am particularly fond of. As a result, the colored pants I do have are loose fitting chinos and skinny cords. The chinos are great for spring and summer, whereas the cords are perfect for fall. If you are looking for a pair to take you through the winter months, I suggest a skinny colored denim that can be tucked into boots.
Next, choose your colors and patterns. As I am sure I have mentioned before, I am not wild about patterns. The only patterns I find myself adding to my wardrobe are polka dots, plaids, ginghams, and stripes. That said, there is absolutely no reason you can't work some fun patterns in to your bottom based style. When selecting patterns, you need to pay attention to how you plan on wearing them most frequently. If they are going to be work related, pick a color with a small, repetitive pattern or no pattern at all. This really has nothing to do with what is "work appropriate" because that is just total bullshit that you should not buy in to. It has everything to do with versatility. Work clothes aren't the most fun thing to buy, but when introducing fun prints and colors to your wardrobe, especially in the form of pants, you want them to have maximum wearability and multiple opportunities for mixing and matching. If you are looking for something more casual, the world is your oyster. I usually keep it to just solid colors, but if you are jonesing for a loud print, casual wear is the way to go. Take a look at the pictures below (all from Banana Republic) to see what I mean by work vs. casual.
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| Work, because of print and color. |
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| Casual, because of color. |
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| Work, because of print. |
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| Casual, because of print. |
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| Casual, because of print. |
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| Casual, because of fit. |
So you have your colors, prints, and fits picked out. Now what do you wear it with? My mantra with colorful and loud pieces is to keep everything else as simple as possible. To me, simple is defined by items that are typically associated as being menswear or menswear-esque. That doesn't mean you will look boyish or manly, but rather, not a hot mess vying for attention.
Blazers and Oxfords:
I seem to always have perpetual affection for blazers. They fit with everything, but are particularly fabulous under these circumstances. Blazers can be paired with almost any fit of colorful pants, loose (casual) and slim (work). The only area you need tread lightly is with fabric and texture. Wool based blazers are going to look heavy and busy if they are paired with any type of bottom that isn't primarily cotton. Keep the blazers fitted, as loose fitting jackets are going to make the outfit look sloppy. As for shoes, grab a pair of oxfords and roll up the cuff of your bottoms to just above the ankle. This keeps it casual, yet polished.
Converse and Tees:
If you are looking for the uber-casual look, find a loose fitting v-neck t-shirt (white will never fail you) and some not-so-beat up Converse or Vans. I like to go with white or cream colors as they keep the outfit looking fun and relaxed without looking lazy and tired. The pants can be either lose or slim fitting in this circumstance.
Sweaters and Heels:
If you are working toward a polished look that doesn't make you feel like you are at work, then go with some simple sweaters and heels. Loose fitting colorful bottoms aren't an option here, so look for something slim fitting in a fun pattern or fabric. Sweaters should be in solid neutrals, and with a crew or boatneck. Heels should be in solid colors and preferably not pointy (I hate pointy toed shoes with a passion unmatched by little else).
Button Downs and Boots:
If you are looking for a cold-weather look that plays nicely with colored bottoms, then you should be opting for a simple riding boot in either black or brown, and a crisp neutral button down. Your pants should be slim fitting so they tuck smoothly into boots without adding bulk. They should also be in winter appropriate colors (think jewel tones and neutrals). The boots should have minimal hardware and lacing as they may add too much "extra" to the outfit.
Accessories:
The pants are intended to be the focal point of your outfit, which means you should really avoid trying to play up your jewelry selection. Keep the pieces small and opt for baubles in one area (earrings or bracelets, or necklaces, or rings, not all of the above). Don't try to match your jewelry colors to your pant colors, or you might end up looking like a lost clown. Scarves should be used carefully, as their material or print may send your look too far.
Having fun with colorful bottoms doesn't have to look messy and cheap. Pay attention to fit and keep everything else as simple as possible. When shopping for colorful bottoms I highly recommend
Gap or
Banana Republic, as they have their pant game perfected.
