It can be tricky to find pants that fit well and look great when you have wider hips. Many styles seem to emphasize the wrong things or simply don’t feel comfortable. But don't worry – with a little know-how, you can discover cuts and fabrics that will have you feeling confident and stylish.
Finding the Right Fit: Key Considerations
The most important aspect of finding pants that flatter your figure is, without a doubt, the fit. Don't settle for anything that pulls, pinches, or feels too tight. A good fit starts at the waist and flows smoothly over your hips and thighs. Here’s a breakdown of things to keep in mind: Waistband:A higher waistband can often be more flattering as it cinches in your natural waist and creates a more defined silhouette. Look for waistbands that sit comfortably without digging in. Avoid very low-rise styles, which can accentuate the widest part of your hips and create a muffin top. Mid-rise or high-rise are generally better choices.
Rise: The rise of the pants (the distance from the crotch to the waistband) plays a big role in how your hips appear. As mentioned, low-rise styles tend to make hips look wider. A mid-rise sits just below the natural waist, offering a balanced look. High-rise styles, sitting at or above the natural waist, can elongate the legs and create a more streamlined appearance. Experiment to find what feels and looks best on you.
Fabric: The fabric of your pants can make or break the look. Stiffer fabrics, like denim or twill, can provide structure and support, helping to smooth out your silhouette. Fabrics with a bit of stretch, like those containing elastane or spandex, can offer a more comfortable and forgiving fit. Avoid overly clingy or thin fabrics that will highlight every curve.
Pockets: Pocket placement is surprisingly important. Back pockets that are too small or too high can make your rear look wider. Opt for pockets that are medium-sized and positioned in the center of your rear to create a more balanced look. Angled front pockets can also be flattering, as they draw the eye inward.
What about side pockets? Are they a mistake for wider hips?
Side pockets can sometimes add bulk to the hip area, especially if they are cargo-style or have a lot of detailing. However, streamlined side pockets that lie flat can be perfectly fine. The key is to try on different styles and see how they look on your individual body shape.
Pants Styles That Work Wonders
Certain pants styles are inherently more flattering for individuals with wider hips. Here are some excellent choices to consider: Bootcut:Bootcut pants are fitted through the hips and thighs and then gradually widen from the knee down. This creates a balanced silhouette and helps to offset the width of your hips. The slight flare at the bottom visually balances the upper body.
Straight Leg: Straight-leg pants offer a classic and versatile look. They provide a clean, streamlined silhouette that doesn’t cling too tightly to the hips and thighs. Choose a pair with a slightly higher rise for the most flattering effect.
Wide Leg: While it might seem counterintuitive, wide-leg pants can actually be very flattering. The key is to find a pair that fits well at the waist and flows smoothly over the hips. Avoid anything too voluminous or baggy, as this can overwhelm your frame.
Flare Leg: Similar to bootcut, flared pants offer a balanced silhouette. They tend to be more dramatic than bootcut, but still visually balancing.
Trouser-Style Pants: Trousers, especially those with a slight flare or a straight leg, can be incredibly flattering. Look for styles made from structured fabrics that hold their shape well. A well-tailored pair of trousers can create a polished and sophisticated look.
Boyfriend Jeans (with caution): Boyfriend jeans can be tricky, but if styled correctly, they can work. Choose a pair that isn't too baggy and has a slightly tapered leg. Rolling up the cuffs can also add a touch of femininity and prevent them from looking too shapeless. Pair with a fitted top to balance the relaxed fit of the jeans.
Are skinny jeans completely off-limits if you have wide hips?
Skinny jeans can be worn, but it's all about styling. The key is to balance the slim fit of the jeans with a looser top that falls below the hips. A-line tops, tunics, or sweaters can create a flattering silhouette. Avoid pairing skinny jeans with tight-fitting tops that will accentuate the hips. Dark wash skinny jeans are generally more flattering than lighter washes.
Colors, Patterns, and Details
The color, pattern, and details of your pants can also impact how they look on your figure.
Color: Darker colors, like black, navy, and charcoal gray, tend to be more slimming than lighter colors. If you want to wear lighter colors, consider opting for a pair with a structured fit and a slightly higher rise.
Patterns: Be cautious with patterns, as they can sometimes add visual bulk. If you do choose to wear patterned pants, opt for smaller, more subtle prints. Vertical stripes can be slimming, while horizontal stripes can make you look wider.
Details: Avoid pants with excessive embellishments or detailing around the hip area, as this can draw attention to your widest point. Look for clean, simple designs that allow your figure to shine.
Where can I find pants designed for a pear-shaped figure?
Many brands now offer pants specifically designed for curvy or pear-shaped figures. These pants often feature a higher rise in the back to prevent gapping, and more room in the hips and thighs. Do some online research and look for brands that cater to your body type. Reading reviews from other customers with similar body shapes can be incredibly helpful.
Ultimately, the best way to find pants that make you feel confident and comfortable is to try on a variety of styles and see what works best for your individual shape. Don't be afraid to experiment and step outside of your comfort zone. And remember, fit is key – a well-fitting pair of pants, regardless of the style, will always be more flattering than something that's too tight or too loose. Finding pants that complement your figure is about embracing your body and choosing pieces that make you feel your best.