Every season heralds at least one trend that seems difficult to pull off and this season has several conundrum-causing silhouettes, one of them being the slouchy pant. No doubt you've seen it before as a micro-trend, a quirky alternative to the ubiquitous (and rightly so) skinny pant. This year, it's moved from the fringes of casual daywear to office, evening, and everything-in-between wear. It's going to be easier to work into your wardrobe than you think.
Don't let a lack of familiarity keep you from one of the most versatile, fun, and comfortable pieces for Fall 2012. We love the variety of styles shown by some of our favorite designers and can't wait to see how our readers translate them into street style brilliance. Need some inspiration for your next shopping trip? We've taken care of it. Here are some runway shots with along with a few tips on what type of pant you should embrace, and how you can wear it, no matter what the occasion calls for.
How to Wear: Slouchy Pants
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It's Black. It's White.
Rarely do we advise copying a look from head to toe, but this is so chic and wearable, there's no shame in copping Phillip Lim's game almost verbatim. A high-waisted black pant with a little bit of room makes it appropriate for the office. A thick belt defines your waist in one of the most flattering ways. A simple, crisp white shirt finishes off the look. White coat optional.
Photo: IMAXtree
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Menswear
These gray trousers have such a cool androgynous vibe, you'll want to wear them to brunch, to cocktails, and any other time you can get away with them, which is whenever because they can easily be dressed up or down. Pair them with Chucks on Sunday, ballet flats on Friday, and heels on Friday night. Add a sequin top or a sporty sweatshirt depending on the occasion.
Phillip Lim photo: IMAXtree
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Green Velvet
It's sexy, it's sumptuous, it begs to be touched. That's right, we're talking about velvet. Call it a gift from the Baroque-minded designers, and then call on it for cocktails. Hemmed to perfection, this pant can do no wrong. Balance it out with a leather blazer or fitted top and a pair of pointed toe heals.
Gucci photo: IMAXtree
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It's Universal
This look reminds us of stargazing as thought up by our inner glitter-loving girly personas. Though you might not be able to get your hands on Som's pants, let these be a reminder that a little glitz and/or metallic sheen is still very "in" — and can be just the thing to punch up your standard black top.
Peter Som photo: IMAXtree
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Raw Hide
We've said before and will probably say it again over the course of the next few months, leather is where it's at. Designers have created leather versions of every garment you can think of, slouchy pants included. They're tough, they're edgy, they can be worn to a liberal office and a hot date alike. Not into wearing animals? Faux versions abound.
Peter Som photo: IMAXtree
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White Out
White was all over the runways for fall and winter. Colorblock it for a modern, architectural vibe.
Phillip Lim photo: IMAXtree
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Ride It Out
Never had a chance to take riding lessons on your very own pony? Or indulge the urge to look like a mysterious gypsy escaped from her band of ruffians? Pair your knee high boots with slouchy pants, throw on a thick belt and keep the colors dark.
Gucci photo: IMAXtree
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Suit Up
This look reminds us of the PJ trend from last year, though so much more wearable without the classic pajama print. This silk suit flows effortlessly, and so will you in a similar look. Nothing says casual elegance like a silk pantsuit that moves as much as you do.
Gucci Image: IMAXtree
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Think Pink
So far we've introduced some of the most whimsical statement options for the slouchy pant, which is on board to become a new classic. This look from Celine puts the pant in the easy background and makes a statement with a shocking pink fur coat. If in doubt, a pair of black slouchy pants are always your best option. You'll find their versatility no less useful than a pair of black skinnies. Feel free to amp it up with a ton of bangles, rings, chunky necklaces, or a temporary strip of candy-colored hair. The sky is the limit.
Celine Image: IMAXtree
