Every year spring arrives expectedly with the horrific storm of pollen, stressful final exams and beautiful blooms all around campus. However, this spring welcomed something that I never expected to see: culottes. 

This hybrid of the now popular midi-skirt and Palazzo pants probably could have been predicted in the fashion forecasts, but if you are anything like me, you probably experienced the lack of foresight denial summons.  However, upon seeing how culottes are utilized and repurposed in the stores and on the runway, much to my surprise, I am impressed by what they bring to the table, (and to the closet) this spring. 

Culottes are no longer pants from embarrassing childhood photos; they are now fashionable and classy yet casual. They can be either free-flowing or structured, but always hit around mid-calf and nearly always sport high waists. 

Culottes have a feminist history. They were popularized in 18th century France by the aristocracy and later in Victorian England as trousers in disguise. They were then just a split skirt that allowed women to ride horses and bicycles and to play sports. 

Culottes this spring face less utilitarian purposes than in the past and are now playing their part as an edgy, vintage fashion statement.

The success of your outfit with culottes hinges on what you wear with them. While the pants themselves are comfortable, pairing a comfy T-shirt is not the answer. Instead, try a structured top or a cropped shirt to balance the abundance of fabric around your legs. A fresh new way to wear culottes is a two-piece outfit: a coordinating pant and crop-top combination. Feeling stylish? Try out a monochromatic look to pair culottes with another spring fashion trend!

The versatility of the culottes is this trend’s major strength. You can take this look from the beach to the office, then to dinner after. 

However, culottes are acclaimed to not look the best on everyone. Contrary to this, culottes come in a huge range of widths, lengths and patterns—thus creating a flattering version for a range of body types.  

Rather than writing them off as unflattering, instead focus on how you style them. The trick of fashion is to create illusions—for example, tuck in a shirt with culottes to draw attention to your waist. Put on a pair of heels to lengthen your legs. This season, it is all about becoming contentious of what parts of your body you want your clothes to draw attention to.

Most importantly, try them on! Bring a selection of different variations of this spring fashion-must into the dressing room in order to find the best look for you. 

One thing is for certain: The “cool” is definitely back in culottes. Be brave and rock the culottes trend this spring.