Fashion tips: Add a retro flair to your wardrobe with flare pants

Fashion tips and tricks: The popularity of flare pants this season can be attributed to a growing desire for comfort without sacrificing style. Flare pants are versatile and can work for various body types with a few styling tweaks (Images: Rana Gill's New Spring Summer '25 Collection titled Marbella Dreams)

The season, flare pants are making a visible return to the fashion scene, blending retro charm with modern designing. With their unique and versatile appeal, they have quickly become a staple on runways and high-streets alike.

The popularity of flare pants this season can be attributed to a growing desire for comfort without sacrificing style. As we see a shift towards relaxed fits and vintage-inspired fashion, flare pants offer the perfect balance between nostalgia and contemporary flair. Renowned designer Ranna Gill believes the timeless appeal of flare pants lie in their flattering silhouette and ability to elongate the legs, making them a go-to choice for women of all ages and sizes.

Flare pants are versatile and can work for various body types with a few styling tweaks. She says, “For those with an hourglass shape, high-waisted flare pants emphasise curves and elongate the legs. For petite frames, opting for a pair with a higher rise and a slightly narrower flare will create a taller, leaner look. If you're curvier, a mid-rise flare with a wider hem can balance proportions and add fluidity to the outfit.” Regardless of body type, it's important to choose the right fabric and something that drapes well and gives freedom of movement.

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Choose the right flare:

Flare pants are back in style due to their vintage appeal, and versatility. This season, the ‘70s and Y2K revival, comfort-driven fashion, and influencer trends have made them a must-have. Designer Bhawna Rao opines, “Choosing the right flare pants for different body types is all about balancing proportions. For a petite body type, go for high-rise and avoid wide flares; for pear-shaped bodies, structured fabrics with a subtle flare balances wider hips. For an hourglass physique, mid to high-rise flares that hug the waist enhance natural curves beautifully. The key is to find the right waist fit and flare width to complement your proportions while keeping comfort in mind.”

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How to style flare pants:

Whether it’s for day or night, flare pants can be effortlessly adapted to suit various moods and settings. Ranna recommends, “For a casual look, pair them with a tucked-in tee or a simple blouse and sneakers for an easy, relaxed vibe. To elevate them for a formal setting, choose a fitted blazer, a sleek top, and pointed heels to create an elegant silhouette. Adding statement accessories like a bold clutch or layered jewellery can also help dress them up."

Whereas, designer Bhawna doles out a style guide for beginners and mentions, “For a casual luxe look, pair your flares with a silk blouse or a cashmere sweater for effortless refinement and a relaxed drape. Add a tailored blazer or a classic trench coat to bring polish and structure to the ensemble. Complete the outfit with designer sneakers or chic block heels, striking the perfect balance between comfort and style. Statement accessories, such as oversized sunglasses, a structured handbag, or delicate gold jewelry, add the finishing touch. For a high-end formal aesthetic, opt for a satin bodysuit or corset top to create a sculpted, refined silhouette.”