There's more than one reason why the phrase "wearing the pants" means you're a total boss. Our interpretation? Finding the right pants — and looking amazing in them — can be seriously tricky for most ladies. Thankfully, fall's cropped trouser trend is a free for all. The secret? Finding a pair that hits right at the narrowest part of your lower leg (usually just above the ankle). So, take some inspiration from our trio of stunning outfits and prove that you can — and will — wear the pants.
Cropped pants are an easy way to modernize your work wardrobe, since the abbreviated silhouette is a little unexpected, but still sensible enough for a 9-to-5 gig. A neutral heel will make your legs appear longer — no stumpiness allowed! Finish off the look with a printed blouse, some glam earrings, and a fiery-red satchel.
Topshop 34" Leg Cigarette Trouser, $45, available at Topshop; Burberry Silk Tonal Patterned Top, $570, available at Stylebop; BaubleBar Crystal Lucille Studs, $34, available at BaubleBar; B-Low The Belt Alpha Belt, $68, available at Shopbop; Banana Republic Evan Convertible Leather Crossbody, $168, available at Banana Republic; Nine West Callen Pump, $85, available at Piperlime.
One of the reasons we love the ankle-length pant trend? It reminds us of the one-and-only Audrey Hepburn, especially when paired with ballet flats, a feminine top, and a pretty pink lip. Add a punch of yellow and some scholarly frames, and you're ready to catch an indie documentary at E Street Cinema.
H&M Silk Top, $59.95, available at H&M; Eyefly Watling Street Frames in Nude, $94, available at Eyefly; Coach Legacy Mini Duffle, $198, available at Coach; Repetto The Cendrillon Textured-Leather Ballet Flat, $285, available at Net-A-Porter; Jouer Cosmetics Hydrating Lipstick in Whitney, $22, available at Jouer Cosmetics.
Headed to a gallery opening? No need to limit yourself to skirts and dresses — the updated slim trouser has a chameleon-like quality that makes it ideal for a creative-cocktail dress code. Add a loose, metallic tank and a statement necklace for some sparkle, then top it off with a white dinner jacket. A sexy, mesh heel-bootie hybrid puts the perfect finishing touch on this arty-chic look.
H&M Dinner Jacket, $34.95, available at H&M; Enza Costa Metallic Coated Ribbed Tank, $118, available at Intermix; Topshop 34" Leg Cigarette Trouser, $45, available at Topshop; Lulu Frost Big Bang Necklace, $495, available at Charm & Chain; Kate Spade Neveah Heels, $375, available at Kate Spade.
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