We didn’t know what to think when culottes popped up on the catwalk again way back in spring 2014. Even hearing the word sent a shudder down our spines; memories of scratchy teal-coloured primary school shorts came flooding back to haunt us. But they are back with a bang this year with celebs such as Victoria Beckham getting this chic look oh-so-right. There’s something very poetic about these free-spirited pants which are cropped just below the knee.
So, we spoke with Style & Image Consultant Joan Cashman to find out how us ordinary folk can nail summer’s hottest wedding trend.
It’s All About Neutral Tones
“Culottes are a tricky garment to pull off – unless you’ve a body shape like Kendall Jenner – the best way to embrace this look is to ensure the silhouette flatters your body type and you must get the proportions right.
“The safest and most flattering way to glam up culottes to a wedding is by sticking to a neutral colour palette. Cream, nude or shell can appear polished and modern without looking like you’re trying too hard – It’s all about elongating the look.”
If The Shoe Fits
We won’t complain about splashing out on a new pair of heels to glam up this season’s most sought after wardrobe staple. And if you want to get picture perfect -it’s time to up your shoe game according to Joan. “The bottom part is the easiest to get right as the culottes look their best with heels – nothing too chunky, though! Pointy pumps or an ankle-strap sandal are ideal. However, avoid anything too strappy as you don’t want it to cut you off – ensure you continue the line of your bare leg to nail this look.
Define Your Waist
“Next, you need to define your waist with a wide belt or crop-top worn under a fitted jacket, as these will even up your proportions and the structured jacket will help balance the flowing culottes. For all petite girls out there, your best bet is to select a pair with a shorter hemline or a pair that almost looks like a diagonal skirt! This trend is not for everyone, don’t splurge! Scoop up an affordable pair so you can play around with the look without breaking the bank!”
Save With Elegant Simplicity
These are our top picks straight from the high street. Paired back and simplistic, these culottes can be mixed and matched to take you right through wedding season because we know the struggle is real when you have at least 10 weddings in the pipeline and nothing to wear!
White Smart Culottes, €45 – River Island
River Island Culotte, €47.94 – ASOS
Warehouse Premium Lace Culottes, €89.04 – ASOS
Zamora Jumpsuit, €150 – Coast
Splurge & Steal Her Style
Channel your inner VB with this sleek, sophisticated design. Vertical stripes will help to elongate your body. If you can afford the hefty price tag, it will become a closet favourite that can be worn again and again. Meanwhile, we can dream…
Printed Pleated Silk Culottes, €1,425 – Victoria Beckham
Be Bold With These Floral Beauties
If wearing a muted colour palette to a wedding is too daring for you – after all we don’t want to upstage the bride – opt for eye-catching brights. You will be the envy of your pals in these summer prints.
Floral Print Culottes Black, €42 – Missguided
Elizabeth and James Trenton Silk Crepe de Chine Cullotes, €305 – NET-A-PORTER
Fashion guru, Joan Cashman, has been styling the nation for more than 20 years. She was global trainer and head of Colour Me Beautiful in Ireland before going on to open her landmark Academy in Cork City, in 2006. The Academy was created to attract top, highly-talented people who are interested in careers in ‘Fashion Styling’ and ‘Makeup Artistry ’ as well as the hugely popular one-to-one private consultations and corporate work conducted by Joan herself.
For more details contact Colour and Image Academy Studio on 021 427 6330.
Image Credits: Rex Features – The Guardian.
