As a follower of fashion, I always like to stay on trend. I’ve noticed that harem pants are all over the catwalks this season but I’ve no idea how to wear them. How can I wear this look and avoid the obvious MC Hammer comparisons? Help!
Well, you certainly have your finger on the fashion pulse because harem pants are one of the key looks for spring/ summer 2009.
Harem pants (identified by a full leg and banded bottom) are going to be hard to avoid this summer - but the bad news is that they are a notoriously difficult look to pull off.
For women of a 'certain' age, such as myself, they conjure up Memories of 'Hammer Time' or the Nolan sisters strutting their stuff on Top of the Pops - this 80's revival keeps giving us more and more ( can someone please make it stop!).
I spotted the trend on many of the key catwalk shows from Ralph Lauren and Chloe, to Diane Von Furstenberg, and Dries Van Noten, among others. Now it has filtered down to the high street and all of the major retailers – from New Look to Topshop and Marks and Spencer are stocking them. Be afraid be very afraid.
The problem is that harem pants tend to add girth exactly where your figure really does not need it – on the hips. So, if you are a fuller figured woman, do consider the effect of these pants on your silhouette.
Given the ballooning nature of these pants, they will only wear work well on women who have been blessed with taller slimmer frames.
If you are somewhere in the middle, like me, go for the silks and lycras to create a drapey effect without bulk. Curvy girls also have the option of choosing wide leg pants, which are in fashion but are infinitely more flattering.
If you are hell bent on staying ahead of the fashion posse and wearing the look, here’s a few words of advice:
Keep tops and jackets simple, as the pants are already the feature, so focus on the shape of your body to create a look that’s flattering and balanced.
Whatever you do, defining the waist is key to successful wearing of harem pants, so remember to keep your top half fitted.
Wear heels. This will give you the added height needed and it also slims down the leg as the harem pants billow. Flat shoes will just make you look dumpy, so picking a pair of heels that will work with the trend is key.
I’d recommend a gladiator style sandal with a heel or a pair of espadrilles for a relaxed daytime look.
Keep dramatic jewellery to a minimum- after all you don’t want to look like a Genie now do you?
Once you learn how to work the look, you'll be singing "U Can't Touch This."
