Our relationship with denim is truly being tested this season. Despite some good years and good times, we're on a break with our longterm love, the skinny jean. Flares have swooped in to fill the trouser-shaped hole in our lives — and we're not mad about it. The wide-legged look, however, takes some getting used to. If you're interested in dipping your toes in the water — and we don't mean by rolling up the formfitting hems of your skinnies — we've got some inventive ways to step out in flares this season. Wear 'em wide and wear 'em proud — to one of the imagined spring scenarios, below.
The Day Party
Rooftop parties. Birthday brunches. Eight-hour barbecues. It's (finally!) that time of year. So, build a solid day-to-night ensemble around a tailored black flare. Dress down a going-out crop top for daytime with a bright, long vest (which you can take off for the after-party). The mules will keep you propped up for hours on end without wreaking havoc on your feet. And, of course, the crowning jewel on any springtime ensemble: killer shades.
Rooftop parties. Birthday brunches. Eight-hour barbecues. It's (finally!) that time of year. So, build a solid day-to-night ensemble around a tailored black flare. Dress down a going-out crop top for daytime with a bright, long vest (which you can take off for the after-party). The mules will keep you propped up for hours on end without wreaking havoc on your feet. And, of course, the crowning jewel on any springtime ensemble: killer shades.
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The Casual Brunch
The last thing you want to wear to a lazy brunch is a pair of heels. Instead, throw on some sneaks. This elevated sparkly pair brings some kick to the classic faded-jeans-and-white-T-shirt combo. Then, add a statement bomber and a bold-colored, hands-free bag for a next-level take on tomboy style.
The last thing you want to wear to a lazy brunch is a pair of heels. Instead, throw on some sneaks. This elevated sparkly pair brings some kick to the classic faded-jeans-and-white-T-shirt combo. Then, add a statement bomber and a bold-colored, hands-free bag for a next-level take on tomboy style.
The Casual Friday
You get to swap out your pencil skirt for jeans, which saves you an uncomfortable 6:00 p.m. outfit change in the bathroom stall before meeting your friends for dinner. What better occasion to show off those flares? To keep the top half of your body defined, try a sophisticated wrap top with a tie waist. The slingback-meets-ankle-wrap platform heel is workplace friendly and going-out appropriate. Keep your eye on the clock (because, what else do you do on Fridays, anyway?), and make sure you've got everything you need for the weekend before you head out — trust us, it'll all fit in that carryall.
You get to swap out your pencil skirt for jeans, which saves you an uncomfortable 6:00 p.m. outfit change in the bathroom stall before meeting your friends for dinner. What better occasion to show off those flares? To keep the top half of your body defined, try a sophisticated wrap top with a tie waist. The slingback-meets-ankle-wrap platform heel is workplace friendly and going-out appropriate. Keep your eye on the clock (because, what else do you do on Fridays, anyway?), and make sure you've got everything you need for the weekend before you head out — trust us, it'll all fit in that carryall.
The Afternoon Museum-Hopping
Finally hit up that new exhibit you've been meaning to see. Play up your off-duty denim with a bell-sleeved top and scuba-look parka. Platform sandals let you see over other visitors hovering around the information card, while keeping you (and your feet) cool and comfortable from gallery to gallery.
Finally hit up that new exhibit you've been meaning to see. Play up your off-duty denim with a bell-sleeved top and scuba-look parka. Platform sandals let you see over other visitors hovering around the information card, while keeping you (and your feet) cool and comfortable from gallery to gallery.
The Spring Wedding
The same ol' springy dress you've been donning to every wedding is starting to get old very quickly. Some white-hot flares will get you out of that rut, and give you a reason to look forward to the inevitable cocktail-hour small talk at every function — plus, these eye-catching sandals peeking out from under the hem will give everyone plenty to gab about. A sweet, pale-blue blouse adds some seasonal charm to the ensemble, while a sleek crossbody keeps your phone at arm's reach at all times — essential for nabbing those perfect wedding snaps.
The same ol' springy dress you've been donning to every wedding is starting to get old very quickly. Some white-hot flares will get you out of that rut, and give you a reason to look forward to the inevitable cocktail-hour small talk at every function — plus, these eye-catching sandals peeking out from under the hem will give everyone plenty to gab about. A sweet, pale-blue blouse adds some seasonal charm to the ensemble, while a sleek crossbody keeps your phone at arm's reach at all times — essential for nabbing those perfect wedding snaps.
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The Dinner With Parents (Followed By Drinks With Friends)
It's always fun having the parental units come to you, so you can get in some family time without canceling those oft-rescheduled cocktails with friends. So, transition your dinner duds on-the-go with some cool details: The flowy, dusty pink trousers feel elegant with a cropped, fringe-hem top. While the multicolor pumps will fare well with friends and fam alike, a leather moto jacket toughens up the ensemble for a night out on the town.
It's always fun having the parental units come to you, so you can get in some family time without canceling those oft-rescheduled cocktails with friends. So, transition your dinner duds on-the-go with some cool details: The flowy, dusty pink trousers feel elegant with a cropped, fringe-hem top. While the multicolor pumps will fare well with friends and fam alike, a leather moto jacket toughens up the ensemble for a night out on the town.