Cropped trousers sashayed down the spring/summer runways in a variety of forms this season. From preppy just-below-the-knee culottes at Jil Sander, to a flowing wide-leg version at Salvatore Ferragamo, the ankle-baring trouser ran the gamut from high tailoring through to sporty. We’ve come up with three easy-to-wear interpretations to translate the trend into your every day wardrobe in a true expression of your personal style.
Timeless Tailoring
Paired with the perfect blazer the tailored cropped trouser is a go-to staple that will see you through from boardroom to dinner. Keep the leg straight or narrow and look for a style with interesting points of detail such as a high waist. It’s easy to elevate this look further with an unusual colour palette – white is perfect and print on print makes a standout statement. Cropped trousers leave nothing to hide in the shoe department. This is the moment to display those coveted pointed-toe Céline pumps or statement Marni sandals. Add a tucked-in emblazoned t-shirt or silk camisole, sling this season’s cropped jacket over your shoulders and you’re ready for business.
Summer Nonchalance
As we start to create our capsule wardrobes for spring, consider a cropped palazzo pant as a romantic alternative to a floaty summer dress. This trend is a progression of the culottes silhouette of recent seasons and continues into the Pre-Fall collections (Oscar De La Renta and Akris). A high-waist works best and make sure that you keep the hemline definitively above the ankle for a deliberately cropped statement. A loose, silky fabric is a must. For your own slice of old-school Hollywood glamour, pair with a spaghetti strapped top and wedged or mid-heel (with wraparound straps if you’re throwing caution to the wind). Sunny day in a spring meadow optional.
Sporting Chance
If you’ve lived in your Dior couture sneakers for months now, you’ll be pleased to know that the cropped trouser also translates into a sportswear-inspired look. A casual effortless is all that is required – simply roll up the hems on your loose-fit leather trousers or ripped boyfriend jeans to just below mid-calf. Keep the rest of your outfit sporty with a loose-fit bomber jacket or American football jersey and pair with fierce heels (Sophia Webster strikes the perfect pitch for this look) or add a note of luxury through unexpectedly structured accessories such as a boxy clutch.
