How to find the perfect black trousers
How to find the perfect black trousers.
If there’s one fashion item every woman needs, it has to be a good pair of black trousers. Get them right, and they’ll make you look slimmer and taller, go with practically every top in your wardrobe, and take you anywhere from a business meeting to a cocktail party. But tracking down that perfect pair of trousers is only slightly less difficult than finding the perfect man or the perfect job, so I’ve gathered together all the tips I can find to help narrow down your search.
Petite? Look for straight, bootleg or slightly flared legs; very wide trousers will make you look square. Trousers that sit on or very slightly below your natural waistline will help make your legs look longer. Avoid turn-ups, which have a shortening effect.
Hourglass figure? You’ll probably find that most trousers that fit on the hips are way too big at the waist, and anything that would fit your waist won’t zip up at the hips.The best solution is to buy a pair that fits at the hips, then get them altered to fit your waist – most good dry cleaners offer an alterations service. It means spending an extra £20 or so, but the result will be a pair of trousers that feel like they were made for you.
Pear-shaped? Bootlegs or a slight flare will balance out your hips and make you look more in proportion. Avoid anything skinny or tapered; you might as well wear a sign saying ‘Look at my hips. Big, aren’t they?’
Boyish figure? Most trouser styles will look good on you, but if you want to give the illusion of more curves, choose a bootcut style that sits below the waist.
Tall? Your main problem will be finding trousers that are long enough. It’s worth looking at the younger end of the market, whose standard leg lengths are often a little bit longer than average. Top Shop and Long Tall Sally are both good for Tall ranges. And my very best tip? When you find that perfect pair, buy three of them!