Got the FLARE?

Are flares & bell bottoms back in?

The simple answer is yes, flared jeans and bell bottoms as well as wide-leg pants are back in. The reason why is almost as simple: skinny jeans have become so common, such a staple in most everyone’s wardrobe, that people are seeking an alternative. At the same time you have the revival of 1970's fashion as a major influence of trends across 2011/12.

It goes without saying that the return of flares pants and jeans in 2011/12 is not to be interpreted as a return of the baggy jeans. It’s also not a return of the boyfriend jeans style that was popular throughout 2008 & 2009.

Instead bell bottoms & flared jeans for women in 2011/12 are all about a neo-1970s style that has the following elements:

• A hem that is at least as wide as your foot – the men’s hem doesn’t apply to the women’s interpretation of the trend
• Loose at the knee – We’ve already seen some takes on the trend where the jeans are cut very slim down the thigh and the knee and then flare out from below the knee cap. This is a 1990s interpretation of flares and not the style that’s on trend in 2011/12

We want you to look you're snazziest at any point in the day may it be at college, at work, at lunch or at dinner. So heres a look thats very WORK-able as it adds that snazz to your 9-5 routine and one thats definitely going to catch more than one eye.

(Click on images to enlarge)

Also if just the top isn't enough for the occasion you can dress it up with a sleeveless overall that can give an entirely different look to the ensemble. It can be tied/buttoned or simply left open. Its your prerogative!
(Caution: Go simple on the footwear if the look has a print going on already)

Bright Orange Top: NUON by Westside

White Flare Pants: Marks & Spencer

Leopard Printed Shoes: Christian Louboutins

Sleeveless Overall: Collezioni Moda

Sunglasses: Charles & Keith

Belted Latch Bracelet: Aaruh

Laptop Bag: Tappu Ki Dukaan – Colaba

Blue Clutch: Personal Collection

Gold Ribbon Belt: Handmade

(Prices on request)

It’s not really surprising that many people place flares amongst the list of things they have qualms about. They can be a tad hit-or-miss. They also, most of the time, call for a pair of heels to be worn under them for full effect, and that’s not always practical. But when done right a little bit of flair can be well worth the risk.

This outfit comes off as sophisticated yet effortless, especially because of the white. The relatively straight-cut leg that flares out from the knee down, results in a neat silhouette while the bright orange colored top adds to the look.

Keep in mind that too much is not good, so accessorize with a minimalistic looking bracelet and/or ring (as shown above) to finish what you started.

The printed laptop sleeve is something we couldn't resist adding here as it brings that fun element to a rather regular office look. Incase you do not plan on wearing this to work then the clutch is the perfect choice for any other occasion.

Model: Devina Desai

-Work like a monster, Look like a rockstar

Until Next Time

Karishma & Monish.