As teenagers, we probably grew accustomed to seeing our mothers dress in the then popular trend of the 70s - culottes. These hybrid shorts meets skirts meets pants are one of the trickiest trends to pull off. And guess what? They’re back with a loud bang. Hitting the runway in all shapes and lengths, they’re soon transcending from odd separates to experimental delights. We thought of bringing to you some of the hottest culottes trends that are doing the rounds of high street stores and help you work this style into a retro staple of sorts. Light, airy, stylish – what’s not to love about them?
 

Easy, breezy, cruise worthy

Easy, breezy, cruise worthy

Nishka Lulla rendered the culottes flair with an effortlessly cruise vibe. Think icy blue and malleable textures and you want to be transported to a relaxing holiday instantly. This matched-to-the-T bra crop top and culottes look is ideal for hot summer days. For a more conservative look, you can throw that cardigan on instead of tying it on the waist and finish your look with nude court shoes.

Image courtesy: Nishka Lulla for Lakmé Fashion Week, 2014

 

Go boho

Go boho

Work the monochrome look with ample doses of bohemian inspired prints. One thing to keep in mind while styling culottes is their length. Those that sit below the knee should be avoided if you’re on the shorter side, as they tend to cut your calf in half, making you appear shorter. To work the look, be sure to put on those heels to elongate your frame.

Image courtesy: fabindia

 

Work wear just got bolder

Work wear just got bolder

Odd as it might sound, this look actually works pretty well. These culottes have more of a skirt silhouette and we love how the long length of the jacket and similar hues does the trick to not make these ballooning pants appear too in-your-face. Stick with muted tones such as whites, greys and khakis to keep the look professional.

Image courtesy: Sneha Arora for Lakmé Fashion Week, 2014

 

Ring in some retro

Ring in some retro

You ought to have a pair of white culottes, which are soon turning out to be a summer essential. We love how festive chic this look is. The chocolate brown top with a mint green print perfectly complements the below the knee pants. The oversized glasses bring in a rocking retro vibe.

Image courtesy: koovs.com

 

Colour blocked

Colour blocked

Go the colour blocking way by pairing salmon pink culottes with a basic black top/tee. The broad waistband on these pants adds much drama to the look and the soft pleating lends the silhouette a more flowy feel.

Image courtesy: Nete.in