I always vowed that on CUR, if ever/whenever anything fashion-related pops up, I’d actually teach some style tips and tricks I’ve learned to actually help you with your own style game, too. None of this “post pretty pictures + one paragraph” that doesn’t truly do anything for anyone. 😉 Obviously everyone is at different price points and style tastes, so I’m hoping to give you some solid inspo, coupled with ways to make it work with what’s within your own closet means. Cool? Cool. Especially with so many fun fall styles popping up left and right already, and with the cooler morning and evening temps creeping in (HALLELUJAH AMIRIGHT?!), ’tis the season for fall trends! I’m playing around with a potentially new series around these rosy parts, so sound off in the comments below if you think “Trend to Try” would be a fun addition to the mix. Here’s how it works: I take a trend, style it, and teach you a.) how to rock it, and b.) how to shop it. Meaning, how to style it with specific pieces and tricks from your own wardrobe, and how to know which item is best for you and your body type, etc. First up: Printed pants (soft pants, at that!).

This whole outfit is currently on repeat for me. The pants are the most comfy, wrinkle-free, not-pajamas soft pants ever. And the top? An easy-to-wear bodysuit that I just bought in white, too! Best part: the entire shebang costs less than $43. #yesplease

I lovelovelove printed pants as a trend to try, + this whole look for fall for a few reasons:

1.) Back to school. This time last year, I was already moved into UPenn again for RA training round two. (CRAZY how time flies!) When you’re in school, “exhausted” is basically your new normal, and ain’t nobody got time for complicated outfits or things you can’t accidentally fall asleep in study group wearing. This look is easy, comfy, and cheap – the trinity of college style.

2.) Date night. I love dressing up a little for date night (who wouldn’t?!), but sometimes I’m just not feeling a skirt or dress – or we’re doing something where pants make more sense! Printed pants are more fun + more stylized than basic denim while still being casual enough. This ensemble is chic, comfy, and figure flattering – the trinity of date night style.

3.) Every single day of the week. Y’all, I can’t lie – I’ve worn this three days this week. #cantstopwontstop. Really though, it runs the gamut of wearability. It’s not too obnoxious for just running errands and working around the house, but not too shabby (like, at all) for drinks with girlfriends or unexpected guests. It just *works*.

 

How to rock it:

• If the waistband is snug and elastic, plan to tuck. Plus, if you’re wearing softer patterned pants that could veer into the pajamas territory, tucking instantly takes you from “I just woke up” to “I planned my outfit today.”
• Pattern on bottom? Solid on top. When you’re rocking a rather bright or bold pair o’ pants, make sure the rest of your ensemble is more on the monochromatic side to not blind anyone you pass on the street. 😉
• Snugger makes for a better tucker! I’m on a major bodysuit kick as of late. I always love tucking in at least part of a shirt for fashionable flair, but especially in summertime, added fabric around the waistline just makes for added uncomfortability in the heat. Cut out the extra rolls and tucks with a slim-fitting bodysuit – I’m actually obsessed. I have this one in red (I mean, obvi), and I just ordered it in white, too! Definitely a classic and timeless staple that transcends seasons when you just need that justright fit.
• Watch the footwear. Especially with a bolder patterned pant, clunky, statement shoes will likely clash. When styling this outfit, originally I had grabbed my new favorite pair of Ralph Lauren wedges (which I scored on clearance at Burlington for $16.99 #win), but they’re too thick-strapped and have an edged pattern in them, and it just didn’t gel. Instead, this simple nude heel keeps the focus on the killer pants.
• Rock these babies to work, too! Wear your snugger underlayer on top first (*ahem* bodysuit *ahem*), then layer a blazer or cardigan on top for a more professional, office-appropriate flair.
• If it’s a high-waisted pair of printed pants (because many of them do rise up higher!), go crop! Rock your favorite crop top with it…totally unexpected but totally rockable.
• Accessorize simply. K.I.S.S. (“Keep it simple sweetie/stupid/sugar plum”) applies here, too. Balance the bold with more chic, classic, simple accessories. Opt for a solid bag in a more neutral color to keep it classy alongside a bright pant.
• Balance a more feminine, floral print with a more “masculine” shirt, like a button-down or something collared.
• For fall, pair snugger-fitting patterned pants with an oversized dolman or sweater on top. Pull it all together with a bold statement necklace.
• When in doubt, denim it out. A good chambray shirt works with basically anything and everything in your closet. So if you feel pretty clueless in the mix-and-match department, just throw on a denim shirt and you’re good to go.

How to shop it:

• Note material! Cotton is prone to shrinkage, even when not drying clothes in the dryer. I’ve already accidentally shrunk last year’s favorite pair just from regular cleaning, and it just about broke my heart.
• Watch the pattern. Does a tight, two-color grid print make you a little dizzy looking at it? Do you know that big paisley prints make your thighs look big? If you already know a specific pattern isn’t your cuppa tea, now is not the time to experiment with it.
• Mind the waistband. I prefer a basic, streamlined waistband to anything overly thick or with any sorts of drawstrings, etc. A basic band is just easier to mix and match, AND wear!
• There are definitely just printed pants for the workplace, but the key search term here is soft pants. When you want that I’m-actually-wearing-pajamas-to-the-office feeling, make sure you’re checking out *soft* pants (or “joggers) to give you that uber comfortable vibe.
• Know the kind of fit you’re looking for to match terminology accordingly. A “jogger” is typically fitted at the ankle, with either elastic or just tighter material. A “palazzo” pant is loose and flowy pretty much the whole way through – not as work appropriate, but definitely great for a boho chic, flowy look! A “culotte” is similar-ish to a “palazzo” in the flow factor, but they’re even looser and more square all the way through, and they cut off mid-calf.

 

How would you rock printed pants?

+ Would you want to see Trend to Try become a new series on CUR? Is this helpful for your own everyday styling + shopping? Sound off in the comments below…I’d lovelovelove to hear your input! Here at your style + everything else service. 😉