Have you tried a pair of paperbag waist pants? Styling them can be tricky, so read on for tips for styling a paperbag waist pants outfit.
It’s an interesting name for pants, right? Whenever I see them, I’m reminded of those movie star icons of the 1940s who styled them so beautifully.
So, what exactly are paperbag waist pants? To be considered a paperbag waist, the pants have to be high-waisted, cinched at the waist, and gathered with fabric coming out the top, above the cinched area.
The ruffled waistline is balanced by the elongating effect of the pant legs and can actually flatter the body. This is a good thing for almost all women, and particularly for those of us with shorter legs.
With their looser fit, paperbag waist pants are known for their comfort. But they are also a very chic piece for your wardrobe that you can wear to the office, school, running errands, or even a night out. Because of the ruffled waistline and extra volume, they can often be tricky to style. The key with paperbag waist pants is balancing the looser fit on the bottom with a tighter or shorter top. Not only does that provide a more proportioned look, it helps the waist detail stand out. Pairing the right accessories with the pants is also important, so you can create the most flattering silhouette for your figure.
Because of the ruffled waistline and extra volume, they can often be tricky to style.
So, read on for tips on how to style a paperbag pants outfit…
How to Style a Paperbag Waist Pants Outfit
Tips for Styling
- Choose the right style for your body shape
- If you are Petite, choose a cropped or ankle length
- Select a wider-legged style if you are Plus size to balance out your waistline
- Choose a form-fitting top, like a tee for a casual look, a snug-fitting sweater or a fitted blouse for a dressier look
- Tuck in the top to create a balance silhouette
- Add layering pieces like a jacket that won’t add bulk, with a cropped or a longer piece
- Add a slim belt that allows the pleat detail to stand out
- Choose a shoe that adds height to elongate your look
- Add statement earrings or a necklace to draw attention upward
A fitted top shows off the detail in the pants and balances the wide pleated area at the waist. You do want to show off the paperbag detail!
The Outfit
A black and white combo is always a classic look and you can’t go wrong with this color combination. The black top and ivory pants outfit styled here is from Express. While I haven’t done a great deal of shopping from Express, I must say that I am impressed with some of my recent purchases.
The Pants
When I was working in an office full-time, I wore mostly slacks and blazers. My go-to for slacks was Nordstrom and Talbots and very often, from Express. With my more casual bent, I am finding they have some really nice things.
I’ve been looking for some winter- or off-white pants. When I saw these, I was intrigued. I do have another pair of paperbag waist style pants in a plaid pattern that I styled in the post Checkered Plaid Trousers, Fall Style. Since I liked those very much, I decided to give these a try. After trying this pair in ivory, I was sold.
The pants are styled in a tapered ankle style, which is flattering for almost any shape. They are available in long, regular and short. I can see these styled with a tee and sneakers and with a long cardigan and a traditional blouse for the office. There is a matching double-breasted jacket if you are looking for a suit.
Paperbag Waist Pants (5 colors)
The Top
Not a fan of snakeskin print? Even though it’s highly popular this season, I know that some ladies just can’t style a head-to-toe snakeskin look without a little cringe. Am I right? However, by adding just a bit, as in the snakeskin trimmed topped and paperbag pants outfit, it can really add a classic touch. Against either black or white, it can really pop!
The Tip
Remember my comment about saving those seemingly out-of-style handbags? This snakeskin clutch has been in my closet a LONG time but it makes the perfect accompaniment to this outfit, closely matching the snakeskin print in the top. You never know when that old piece might serve as the perfect accessory to your outfit!
Similar Bags: Snakeskin Clutch | Snakeskin Wristlet Pouch
While the blouse isn’t exactly fitted–violating the above rules! Lol!–the fabric is malleable enough to tuck it in tightly, so I decided it works for me! Those “rules” are guidelines only–it’s up to each of us to interpret them as we see fit! Give a paperbag waist pants outfit a try–you will love the flattering look!
Darlene, you wear these pants so well! I love that you went for white pants, too. Super chic with the black top and snakeskin trim. And that clutch is gorgeous! I love how our old things really do come back around into style again and again. Thanks for linking up.
Shelbee
http://www.shelbeeontheedge.com
Exactly right! It makes sense to hold on to accessories cause they will go with something and it’s so wasteful to keep buying new! I was looking for white pants and gave these a try. Turns out I like them! Thanks, Shelbee.
xx Darlene
Your snakeskin clutch is such a great addition to the outfit! I’ve found it tough to find flattering paperbag pants, but it’s like buying jeans – you have to try a lot of pairs to find the perfect ones. Thanks for joining #WowOnWednesday!
Exactly right, Gail. Like so many things, you just have to find a pair that works for your body type. With my short legs, it can be a challenge, but I do believe we can all find a pair that works for us. Every now and then, it works! Lol!
Thanks,
xx Darlene
I think they look fabulous on everyone else! But on me, I just feel like they add too much bulk to my hips, and I’m not really very hippy really! I am quite slim so I’m not sure where I feel so bulky with them on!! However, after reading your post I shall try them again next time I spot a nice pair in the shops!
Hugs
Suzy xx
Suzy, I do know what you mean. You have to get used to a different look, to be sure! I’d love to see you style a pair! Since you’re slim, I’d go for a tailored ankle style so it doesn’t overwhelm you. Thanks for the input!
xx Darlene
I also like paperbag waist. It gets me put of a closet rut. I.hope they stay around for a few years.
Thanks for linking up
Anna at Muttonstyle
Yes, me, too. They are pretty comfy to wear after all the “skinnies” we’ve been styling! Lol! Have a great day, Anna.
xx Darlene
White ones are fabulous!! I do like this design! It van be sporty and elegant. Have a great weekend!
Yes, they really can be sporty and elegant, Nancy. I will try them later with a tee and sneakers–or trainers, as you say! Lol!
xx Darlene
Just love how you styled these paper bag waist pants! I have one pair and they are more of a crop length, so I can only wear them in the summer. I actually wore them on an 8 hour flight to Hawaii and they were quite comfortable! Ha! Have a great weekend!
Carrie
curlycraftymom.com
Thanks, sweet Carrie. They really are a comfortable style. I would love a cropped pair, but on me, they’d probably be ankle pants! Haha!
Have a great week!
xx Darlene