Recently in Style Rules Category

Q. I saw your post last week about the new wide leg jeans trend. Please tell me how to wear this look without looking huge - or like a throwback from the ’70s.

A. True, ’70s-inspired wide leg, high waisted jeans are the fresh new silhouette. For some, this is a welcome change from skinny jeans that have been so popular for the last few years. More flattering than you think, flared or wide leg jeans can actually make you look taller and thinner - if you wear them right.

A tucked in shirt and a pair of chunky heels worn with wide leg jeans will make your legs look a mile long. If you’re not comfortable tucking in, try a slim fitting top with a skinny belt at the waist, or a closely cropped jacket. If you have a bit of a tummy or rear end, avoid the high waist styles which tend to look better on slimmer figures, and opt for a medium rise instead.

Here are some looks for inspiration:

Streets Ahead Skinny Snake Belt $56 - ARCADE Boutique

ASOS Oversized Pocket Boyfriend Shirt $43 - Asos

New wide leg trouser jeans (pintucked) $79 - Gap

Sam Edelman Women’s Willie Suede Lace-Up Oxford On Chunky Heel $148 - Endless.com

French Connection Jules Chunky Platform Heeled Sandals $224 - Asos

Steven Alan Cropped wool-blend blazer $385 - theOutnet

Essential Knit Striped Top $78 - BCBG MAX AZRIA

New wide leg trouser jeans (dark wash) $69 - Gap

Like the look? Here are some of our favorite wide leg jeans to wear now.

Q. So I finally gave in to the skinny jean trend (a couple years late, I know) and now I keep hearing that the new “hot” denim shape is wide leg or flared jeans! Do I have to ditch my new skinnies in favor of a wider leg?

A. True, the hot new denim silhouette is a 70s-inspired wide leg jean, but no need to throw away your skinnies - they’re still a stylish option. In fact, this week’s Women’s Wear Daily said that skinny jeans have officially crossed over from a trend to a classic, and they’re here to stay! Here are two quotes that appeared in the WWD article from major department stores:

“The skinny jean has transcended trend. It’s just become part of our everyday wardrobe.”

— Ken Downing, Neiman Marcus

“The legging just continues…the legging and the skinny jean have just become wardrobe staples.”

— Colleen Sherin, Saks Fifth Avenue

So, if the major department stores consider skinny jeans to be a classic, you can expect to see them in stores on a permanent basis.

Cameron Diaz, in James Jeans
Twiggy 5 Pocket Legging Jean
from singer22.com

Q. I am in need of some assistance with a fabulous pair of shoes that I found (Nine West Easycool Suede Peep Toe Platform Slingbacks)! Following my passion, I ordered first and thought about what to wear with them later! This usually works out just fine, as I LOVE building outfits around shoes. However, this time I am perplexed! They fall into that “this used to be a fashion no-no, but now is totally acceptable” category…they are two tone black and brown!! HELP! Do I wear black…brown…bright colors?? I usually do not have a hard time, but this one has me feeling very unsure of my style credentials!!! Also, I would love ideas for any season! Since they are peep toe I would totally rock them in the winter with some cute tights.

A. No need to fret, my dear, your shoes were not only a chic purchase, but a wise one! Black and brown is indeed an acceptable combination (as is black and navy!), and finding a pair of shoes that combines both colors opens up a wide array of color options to pair with them. Besides the obvious of wearing them with black and shades of brown, these will look great with purple, red, orange, pink, tan and more. They will work with pretty much any color you would typically pair with brown or black shoes.

As for wearing tights with these peep-toes, I would recommend opting for black tights since this is the color that surrounds the toe area. If you’re feeling daring, though, feel free to wear bright tights, too!

Q. I am 5’1” and curvy, can I wear ankle boots or booties?

A. If you choose the right style bootie, you can absolutely incorporate this seemingly-everywhere trend. The key is to look for short styles that dip down in the front, allowing more of your leg to show. Wear these with skinny jeans, leggings or opaque tights in a similar color to the boot and you’ll be able to wear booties in the most flattering way for your petite curvy figure. Avoid styles that come up beyond the ankle bone as these will only make your legs look shorter and calves look wider.

Here are some great options for you:

Via Spiga Suri Bootie $119 - DSW

MRKT Sophie Bootie $79 - DSW

Cole Haan Air Talia Bootie $248 - National Jean Co.

Carlos by Carlos Santana Gatsby Bootie $59 - DSW

SM Menlo Bootie $59 - DSW

Sam Edelman - Simone - Black Suede Bootie $99 - Footnotesonline

Q. I am 55 years old, in good shape and stylish. I have a pair of black leggings but can’t seem to find anything to wear with them that feels appropriate. Long sweaters that totally cover my bottom still make me feel only half dressed. Flowy long tops that look like dresses feel too youthful. Is it possible I’m just too old for this look?

A. You’re definitely not too old to wear leggings, however, they may not suit your personal style. Not everyone feels comfortable with every trend - and that’s what personal style is all about. However, if you’re determined to wear leggings, here are some tips on what to wear with your leggings.

If long sweaters paired with leggings make you feel half-dressed, perhaps it is your choice of legging that is the issue. If your leggings are of the hosiery variety, seek out a more substantial pair. My favorite legging this season is this Five-pocket legging from Banana Republic. It is designed more like a skinny jean and is super comfortable and flattering. Since it has pockets and a zipper fly, and is made of a thick, substantial fabric, you might feel more comfortable and “fully dressed” in this type of legging.

Another way to make leggings look work for you is to wear them with your long sweaters and a pair of tall boots. This should cure the feeling you have of being half dressed since only your thighs will be exposed.

And if you’re still not comfortable wearing leggings, then don’t. This trend just might not be for you.