Your new favorite summer wardrobe item is here: culotte shorts. We all love the hot summer trends of bold prints, statement jewelry, and crop tops, but it’s imperative for a fashionista to have at least that one standout, unique piece. And where better to find inspiration for such an item than the always stylish and effortlessly chic French? The original culottes, a sort of knee-breeches, were a wardrobe staple of upper-class gentlemen, first popularized in France during the reign of King Henry III in the sixteenth century. During the Victorian Era, this Renaissance menswear style was adapted into a practical alternative to women’s skirts for horseback riding, forevermore expanding the definition of culottes to refer to any garment which appeared to be a skirt but was actually pants.
From there, it was womenswear history. In the 1960s and 70s, culottes were somehow a major trend; awkward, unflattering, and hitting mid-calf. Now, in 2013, the culotte trend has been sleekly updated in the form of short-shorts. Culotte shorts are currently the pinnacle of fashion in the long history of this clothing item. They offer that much-needed summer relief of a flowing, light skater skirt, but without that constant worry of the breeze causing a wardrobe malfunction. Even better, culotte shorts are that rare gem of the fashion world: both comfortable and chic. Plus, you can incorporate them into any style of wardrobe. So, what are you waiting for? Get in on this trend before that heat wave next week!
How to Style: Sweet
The Culottes: You can’t get more adorable than these silky, pleated shorts in light pink with a feminine floral print. (Modcloth, $43)
The Top: Now, there’s no need to go overboard with the sweet. Add some youth and edge with a cropped bustier – in an innocent white eyelet. (Urban Outfitters, $44)
The Shoes: These bright white, strappy sandals are the perfect summer shoe. (Madewell, $60)
How to Style: Bohemian
The Culottes: These dark red shorts featuring a black print are effortlessly cool and bohemian. (Urban Outfitters, $39)
The Top: Keep the top simple to avoid clashing with the busy print, like this washed-out sage green tank. (Free People, $58)
The Shoes: Have some more fun with your shoes, like these slightly heeled black sandals with metal detailing.(Nordstrom, $80)
How to Style: Sexy
The Culottes: Animal prints are still going strong, and some sexy leopard action is perfectly combined with the culottes to keep from looking trashy. (Mango, $30)
The Top: A simple, yet sultry, black crop top is the ideal match for such busy bottoms. (Nasty Gal, $30)
The Shoes: Keep your footwear simple to maintain a sleek look. These 4 inch sandals are breathtaking and versatile. (Steve Madden, $80)
How to Style: Edgy
The Culottes: Embrace this summer’s neon trend and be bold with your culottes by opting for a hot pink shade. (Topshop, $56)
The Jacket: To tone down the show-stopping shorts, throw on a simple white tee. The key to looking edgy is in the outerwear – a faux-leather jacket. (Forever21, $38)
The Shoes: Add some standout sandals in the form of towering heels, like these all-black, 4.5 inch wedges with strap detailing. (Chinese Laundry, $70)
How to Style: Classy
The Culottes: Keep it simple with just minor detailing, like these scalloped edges, and stick to subtle colors, like this gorgeous muted mint. (Tobi, $48)
The Top: Pair with a conservative but cute top. You definitely want a collar to play with, because then you can add some unique style to the outfit – going with a peter pan for a more sweet look or some metal detailings and laser cutouts to add an edgy spin. (ASOS, $42)
The Shoes: Classy nude pumps, which every girl should already own a pair of, are the perfect finish to your look. They make your legs look über-long and glamorous. (Aldo, $80)
BONUS: Culottes in Fall
The best part about this street style summer trend? It effortlessly seams into the fall. Simply throw on a pair of tights underneath your favorite culottes and add a boatneck sweater or military jacket, and you’re ready to strut across a leaf-ridden New England campus.
The Culottes: This pink floral print is fun and flirty, and a great way to stay colorful in the cooler months. (ASOS, $41)
The Socks: As an alternative to tights, invest in some over-the-knee, nearly thigh-high socks for a spin on the schoolgirl look. Then, throw on whatever flats or boots your heart desires. (Urban Outfitters, $14)
The Top: Match those stunning high socks with a simple, loose-knitted sweater. (Tobi, $28)
The post French Inspiration: Culottes, Summer’s Chicest Shorts appeared first on The Campus Companion Svelte.