Flared pants, once a staple of 70s fashion, have made a major comeback in recent years. These pants, with their distinctive wider hems that gradually flare out from the knee, can be both comfortable and stylish. For seniors, flared pants offer a fashionable and flattering fit that’s easy to wear and perfect for a variety of occasions. In this article, we’ll discuss how to style flared pants for seniors, from casual outfits to more polished looks.
1. Opt for the Right Fit and Length
When choosing flared pants, fit and length are crucial in ensuring both comfort and style. Look for pants that sit comfortably at the waist, with a slight stretch for ease of movement.
- High-Waisted Flared Pants: High-waisted flared pants are incredibly flattering as they elongate the legs and define the waist. They pair beautifully with tucked-in blouses or lightweight sweaters, creating a polished look.
- Mid-Rise Flared Pants: If you prefer a more comfortable and relaxed fit, mid-rise flared pants are a great option. They sit comfortably on the hips and can be paired with casual tops for an easygoing, stylish outfit.
- Length Considerations: The right length is key when it comes to flared pants. Pants that are too long can drag on the ground, while pants that are too short may not showcase the flare as effectively. Aim for a pair of flared pants that graze the floor when you wear them with shoes, allowing the hem to elegantly skim the floor without dragging.
Why it’s Important:
- The right fit ensures comfort and avoids unnecessary adjustments throughout the day.
- Properly hemmed pants create a sleek silhouette and help accentuate the flare at the bottom of the legs.
Tip: If you’re unsure about the length of your flared pants, choose a pair that’s slightly longer than your normal inseam and wear them with heels or wedges for added height.
2. Pair with Fitted or Tucked-In Tops
Flared pants work best when paired with tops that are fitted or tucked in. This balance between the volume of the pants and a more streamlined top creates a flattering silhouette that accentuates the waist and legs.
- Fitted Tops or Blouses: A fitted top or blouse works beautifully with flared pants. A form-fitting shirt or sweater helps balance out the fullness of the pants, creating an elongated and slim look.
- Tucked-In Shirts: Tucking your shirt into your flared pants emphasizes your waist and adds definition to the overall outfit. You can tuck in a blouse, button-up shirt, or even a simple tee for a clean and polished appearance.
- Knit Sweaters or Fitted Cardigans: A fitted knit sweater or cardigan adds warmth while maintaining the balanced look of flared pants. For a more relaxed outfit, you can leave the cardigan unbuttoned and wear it over a tucked-in top.
Why it’s Important:
- A fitted or tucked-in top prevents the outfit from looking overly bulky or shapeless.
- Creating a balanced look between the top and the bottom will ensure a flattering silhouette.
Tip: Experiment with different neckline styles. V-neck or scoop necklines can further elongate the torso and complement high-waisted flared pants.
3. Pair with the Right Footwear
Footwear plays an important role in how flared pants look. The right shoes can enhance the flare of the pants and contribute to a stylish, balanced look.
- Heels or Wedges: Heels or wedges are ideal for wearing with flared pants, as they help elongate the legs and allow the hem of the pants to flow beautifully. Opt for block heels or platform wedges for added comfort without sacrificing height.
- Flats: If you prefer flats, choose a pair with a pointed toe to help elongate your legs. Ballet flats or loafers can also work well, but make sure the pants aren’t too long to avoid dragging on the floor.
- Boots: Ankle boots or knee-high boots work wonderfully with flared pants, especially in cooler weather. When pairing boots with flared pants, ensure the pants are long enough to cover the top of the boots, creating a sleek, continuous line.
Why it’s Important:
- The right footwear helps elevate your look and ensures that your pants drape correctly.
- Footwear can add height or balance to your outfit, especially when paired with flared pants.
Tip: When wearing flared pants with heels or wedges, make sure to choose shoes that are comfortable for long wear, especially if you plan to be on your feet for extended periods.
4. Experiment with Patterns and Textures
Flared pants come in a variety of fabrics and patterns, allowing you to express your personal style. Whether you prefer solid colors or bold patterns, there’s a pair of flared pants to suit every taste.
- Solid Colors: Classic solid-colored flared pants, such as black, navy, or beige, are incredibly versatile and can be dressed up or down. Neutral colors pair well with virtually any top, making them a great foundation for your wardrobe.
- Patterns and Prints: For a more playful and fashionable look, choose flared pants with stripes, floral prints, or even abstract patterns. These pants can be paired with a simple, solid-colored top to let the pattern shine, or you can opt for complementary prints for a more daring ensemble.
- Textures: Different fabrics, like corduroy, velvet, or denim, offer unique textures and finishes. Corduroy flared pants, for example, add warmth and depth to your outfit, while denim offers a casual, everyday look.
Why it’s Important:
- Patterns and textures add variety and personality to your wardrobe.
- Opting for a versatile, neutral pair of flared pants ensures you can wear them for different occasions, while patterned or textured pants can make a bolder style statement.
Tip: If you’re trying patterned flared pants for the first time, keep your top solid-colored and simple to avoid overwhelming your look.
5. Add Accessories to Elevate the Look
Accessories can make a big difference when styling flared pants. Whether you want to dress up your outfit or add a touch of personality, the right accessories can complete your look.
- Belts: A belt can define your waist and add a stylish touch to your flared pants. Opt for a thin, simple belt for a more classic look or a wide belt for a bold statement.
- Scarves and Shawls: A scarf or shawl adds elegance and warmth to your outfit. You can drape a lightweight scarf around your neck for a chic look or opt for a chunky knit scarf for extra warmth in the winter months.
- Jewelry: Jewelry, such as statement earrings or a delicate bracelet, can elevate the overall look. Avoid over-accessorizing if your pants have bold patterns or colors, and instead, choose one standout piece.
Why it’s Important:
- Accessories add flair and individuality to your outfit.
- A belt or scarf can help define your waist and elevate the overall appearance of the flared pants.
Tip: For a polished look, pair your flared pants with a structured bag, such as a leather tote or crossbody. This adds balance to the outfit and enhances the sophistication of the ensemble.
6. Play with Layering for Different Seasons
Flared pants are versatile enough to be worn year-round with proper layering, ensuring comfort and style no matter the season.
- Spring and Summer: Pair your flared pants with a lightweight, short-sleeve top or blouse. You can also opt for a tank top or tunic for warm weather. Sandals or flats are the perfect footwear choice for these seasons.
- Fall and Winter: As the weather cools down, layer your flared pants with warm knit sweaters or cardigans. A long coat or denim jacket can add warmth and structure. When it comes to footwear, opt for ankle boots, knee-high boots, or even chunky loafers for added warmth and comfort.
Why it’s Important:
- Layering allows you to wear your flared pants throughout the year, adapting to the season’s changing temperatures.
- Layering also ensures that you’re prepared for different occasions, whether you’re dressing for casual outings or more formal events.
Tip: In winter, consider pairing your flared pants with thermal leggings or tights underneath to ensure warmth without sacrificing style.
Conclusion:
Flared pants offer a stylish and comfortable option for seniors looking to add variety and flair to their wardrobe. By choosing the right fit, pairing them with fitted or tucked-in tops, and adding the right accessories and footwear, you can create a flattering and fashionable look. Don’t be afraid to experiment with patterns, textures, and layering to make flared pants work for any occasion. Whether dressing for a casual day out or a more formal event, flared pants are versatile enough to keep you comfortable and stylish year-round.