We only have one question as we close the year: How did the fashion trend cycle manage to fly through nearly every denim trend in existence in less than 365 days? Skinny jeans are still on the back burner while straight leg and boot cut jeans take the front seat. But might we suggest denim culottes for anyone looking to stand out from the bunch? Naturally, a slew of fashion-forward trendsetters are already on it, and they’re serving up fresh inspiration for styling the look.
Think of denim culottes as the ultra-polished relative of your standard jeans. As such, you may often see them styled with an office-ready spin, but paired with anything from playfully printed tops to near floor-length dusters, there’s proof that the wide silhouette is totally capable of producing fun and relaxed ensembles as well. As acquired of a taste as they may be, we’ve rounded up six outfits ahead that make the case for everyone to grab a pair this season.
1. MATCHING SET
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Style Notes: Monochromatically coordinating your top to your bottoms is the easiest trick in the book. For any color of culottes your heart desires, you’re bound to find a jacket you can match back to it. Opting for neutrals such as brown, black, or ivory ensure you can mix and match those pieces separately, too.
2. SUEDE JACKET + SLINGBACK PUMPS
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The recipe for boho meets prim and proper, style your denim beauties with a boxy suede jacket, then create contrast with a pair of refined pumps. Darker-hued culottes will add extra polish.
3. BOLD JACKET + COOL BOOTIES
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Sure it’s winter, season of the neutrals, but consider subbing that black jacket for a punchy shade such as bright green. Throw on a pair of patent heels along with frayed culottes for an undeniably cool look.
4. WRAP DRESS + STRAPPY SHOES
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Mastering the art of layering a dress over jeans, let alone culottes, is oftentimes tricky and pretty much peak fashion girl, but opting for a wrap dress (which you can shift to your liking) makes the job way easier.
5. SMOCKED TOP + TWO-TONED HEELS
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Culottes may be the elevated big sister to your average pair of jeans, but they too have a playful side. A flirty smocked top (think gingham or checkered print) and two-toned pumps are just the pieces to give the style an ultra-pretty twist.
6. TALL BOOTS + BLAZER
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Knee high boots were practically made for this moment. They look so luxe tucked seamlessly under a pair of denim culottes, and with a wool or tweed blazer, you’ve just unlocked the key to office-ready power dressing.
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