Few trouser tendencies divide opinion fairly like the balloon pant.
Last trending in the late Eighties and Nineties, maybe higher identified then as “Hammer pants”, the saggy, voluminous and intentionally impractical-looking bottoms have come again into style.
The type has flooded style week runways, being the defining silhouette in spring/summer time collections for Chloé, Armani, Alaïa and extra.
But whereas designers have embraced exaggerated proportions, many consumers stay hesitant – uncertain whether or not balloon trousers are stylish or one incorrect step away from a clown’s costume.
According to stylists, the distinction lies completely in the particulars. So, right here’s how to get the steadiness proper when styling balloon pants this season.
It begins with match
The largest mistake folks make with balloon pants is assuming the copious quantities of cloth can disguise your determine, and so getting the good measurement isn’t essential. But in actuality, the silhouette calls for accuracy.
“The first rule [is] ensure the fit is correct,” says stylist to the stars Deborah Sheridan-Taylor.
“Length is critical, the hem should hit at or just slightly above the ankle. Consider styles with a proper ankle cuff, rather than an elasticated gathered finish, which can take the look dangerously close to Aladdin territory.”
She notes that whereas the form might really feel unfamiliar, the payoff is value it.
“Get them right and they offer an elegant alternative to the ubiquitous wide-leg trouser, combining comfort with a genuinely dramatic silhouette.”
There’s additionally a sensible upside – particularly in the UK. “They’re also a great trouser option during wet weather, as no more puddling hemline!”
Luxury stylist Oriona Robb agrees that proportion is the whole lot. “Balloon pants are all about well thought-out volume.
“The key is making sure the rest of the outfit feels controlled and streamlined so the silhouette looks fashion-forward rather than overwhelming.
“Paying attention to where the trousers sit on the waist is crucial too, because a mid-to-high rise instantly makes the volume feel more flattering and elongates the leg.”
Cos Barrel-Leg Denim Drawstring Trousers£85
Arket Bubble-Hem Trousers, £95
Choose distinction on high
Because balloon trousers exaggerate the decrease half, the higher physique wants to be extra pared-back.
“Balloon trousers are trickier to style than wide-leg, or straight cuts, due to their unusual proportions,” says Sheridan-Taylor.
“In order to balance out the exaggerated balloon silhouette, layering close to the body, with knitwear, like a cashmere tank, or fitted tops worn with a cropped blazer, will help contrast the fluidity of the style.”
For a extra relaxed method, she suggests leaning into form fairly than stiffness.
“For a simpler casual approach try tucking a shirt into the waistband, but be sure to undo a few extra buttons, to elongate your upper body, creating a flattering inverted V-shape.”
Like Sheridan-Taylor notes, when outerwear enters the equation, size issues.
“Cropped or waist-length jackets are a stylist’s favourite because they visually ‘cut’ the volume and highlight the waist,” Robb says. “If you prefer something longer, keep it structured and open so you still see definition underneath.”
Massimo Dutti 100% Cashmere Crew Neck Top, £129
Zara Cropped Buttoned Jacket – The Item, £109
Shoes ought to anchor, not compete
Footwear can both floor balloon pants or throw proportions off completely.
“In winter, structured shoes ground balloon pants best. Chunky loafers, leather ankle boots with a solid sole […] or even a slim Chelsea boot all work brilliantly.”
Contrary to well-liked opinion, Robb warns to “generally avoid very delicate footwear like thin ballet flats or stilettos, as they can make the proportions feel off and slightly dated”.
Pointed sneakers, nonetheless, can work brilliantly to praise the relaxed silhouette.
“The visual line of a pointed heel instantly creates a sharper […] look, while also helping to elongate the leg,” says Sheridan-Taylor. “Ankle boots are also a great choice, as they meet the boot just at the right point.”
“Don’t be shy to explore chunkier platform style footwear,” she provides. “A chunkier trainer or sandal is a great way to anchor the billowing fabric.”
H&M Pointed Court Shoes in Burgundy, £32.99
Vagabond Hedda Ankle Boots, £145
Don’t neglect about material and end
Not all balloon pants behave the similar –and material alternative determines whether or not the form feels cool and architectural or messy and unruly.
“Satins and silky fabrics – and even velvet – offer a lustrous finish for eveningwear,” says Sheridan-Taylor, “paired with a silky peplum top and heels for elegant fluidity through the loose silhouette.”
For daytime or winter put on, construction issues. “More structured fabrics make the balloon shape more pronounced, like a cotton twill or gabardine, and can be a more wearable option.”
Robb says the material may be very a lot dependant on the climate. “Fabric choice makes all the difference. In the UK climate, I love wool blends, brushed cotton twill, heavy poplin and soft tailoring fabrics with structure.”
She cautions in opposition to something too light-weight, significantly out of the summer time season.
“Avoid anything too flimsy, as it can look sloppy very quickly.”
It’s necessary to distinction your materials, so when you’re sporting informal cotton, wool or cashmere, incorporate shine by equipment like assertion earrings, a hoop stack or layered bangles.
Jigsaw Deconstructed Petals Earring, £28 (had been £70)
Sometimes Bicolor Rings Set, £25.99
Arket Fluid Velvet Trousers, £119
Zara ZW Collections Striped Barrel Trousers, £49.99