‘Style My Buy’ is a new monthly feature on Club Forty, all thanks to a lovely reader who suggested the concept to me. Ali got in contact to ask for ideas to style a pair of cropped jeans she recently purchased and pitched the idea for ‘Style My Buy’. I think it’s a great topic for a blog post and totally fits with my ethos for Club Forty.
Let me help you style what you buy
So maybe you bought something on a whim, or were feeling particularly bold on that day; but now you’ve got it home you are unsure of how to make it work with the rest of your wardrobe. We’ve all done it! But don’t worry, ‘Style My Buy’ posts will provide tailored outfit inspiration and help you get the most out of your new purchase – or even something you’ve had hanging at the back of your wardrobe just longing to be worn.
Cropped wide-leg jeans
The feature for this month’s ‘Style My Buy’ is cropped wide-leg jeans, pictured below. These were a real steal from Brand Alley, not to mention a canny purchase as cropped jeans – especially wide-leg – are going to be a huge trend this coming season.
I am a big fan of this style of jean, but I totally accept that it might be hard to get your head around – especially if you’ve been mostly living in figure-hugging, skinny jeans. Essentially a denim culotte, it’s a stylish alternative that is not as tricky to wear as you might think, and you don’t need to wait until high-summer to wear them.
What shapes do they suit?
Cropped wide-leg jeans make a chic silhouette and work well with most body shapes. They are great for balancing wide hips and showing off slender ankles. Don’t be afraid to wear them if you have a petite frame – opt for a high-waist version (most of them are!) that will elongate your shape.
With this particular style of jean I would advise pairing with a top that tucks-in neatly, to best show-off the waistline and pocket details. Jumpers or sweatshirts can be ‘front-tucked’. When a jean has nice detail on the waistline, I also tend to avoid belts – but it’s entirely down to preference.
Outfit ideas
This cropped wide-leg style of jean has an air of the 70s about it, so embrace with the vibe and wear with long, heeled boots whilst the weather is chilly and pair with a pussy-bow blouse and classic trench. Or switch the blouse for a cosy, camel roll neck.
Blouse: &Other Stories, Trench Coat: H&M, Snakeskin boots: Office
A Breton top would be an obvious choice to wear with cropped wide-leg jeans to provide instant Parisian chic. Alternatively choose a peasant-style blouse and wear with bright flats and a blazer for effortlessly cool, every-day style.
Blazer: Next, Blouse: H&M, Bag: New Look, Shoes: Zara
Trainers go really well with the shorter cropped length of these jeans. On off-duty days, choose a comfy jumper or t-shirt and grab a biker jacket to complete the relaxed look.
Jumper: Mint Velvet, Biker Jacket: Warehouse, Bag: Top Shop, Trainers: JD Sports
Styling cropped wide-leg jeans for a more dressy occasion is easier than you think. Choose kitten or block heels (nothing too high) and go for a statement blouse, glitzy earrings and a bold red lip shade to suit a date night or laid-back evening with friends.
Shirt: River Island, Earrings: River Island, Bag: Reserved, Shoes: Zara
2 comments
I love all these looks but I’m only 5 foot 4 and anything cropped looks like dodgy ankle swingers on me.
I’m not much taller than you Zoe! I’m 5ft 5.5… but I do get your point. Some cropped jeans fall shorter than others – so it’s worth shopping around. Otherwise, many High St. retailers offer petite lines (mainly available online – try Next, Top Shop, River Island, ASOS) and failing that – find a good alterations person! X