You may have noticed that low-rise pants and skirts have been everywhere for the last year now. While they may conjure memories of your more awkward style phases in the early 2000’s, they’ve been embraced by Gen-Z and young adults everywhere. Read more to learn about the history of low-rise fashion, and how you can style it in 2023!
What’s the history of the low-rise pant?
The low-rise trend and extended-torso silhouette is largely credited to Alexander McQueen, specifically his Fall 1995 fashion show during which he debuted the famous Bumster Trousers. Shortly after, Gucci under the direction of Tom Ford released a similarly low-rise trouser design, with the added strappy thong that sat high on the hip bones. The style remained prominent well into the 2000’s, with the influence of cultural icons such as Christina Aguilera, Paris Hilton and Britney Spears, who are still referenced to this day in Y2K fashion discourse and fashion-inspiration mood boards.
Photo: Victor Boyko/Getty Images
Why has it made a comeback?
Thankfully, the ideal body of the 2020’s has moved away from an unhealthy thinness towards a stronger and more full physique. Most importantly, the cultural attitude towards bodies has become more accepting; people are learning to dress in ways that highlight their bodies’ unique silhouettes — for many, low-rise is the answer to the swallowing-effect that high-rise pants were thought to have on one’s figure. Low-rise pants and skirts sit right above or right at the hip, extending the waist and highlighting curves for those with triangular or rectangular silhouettes. We’ve seen an explosion of low-rise on the scene alongside other popular Y2K styles, with fashion houses pulling from their own archives to re-release their older designs.
How can you style low-rise pants and skirts?
Try styling a pair of oversized baggy jeans or trousers with a tight tank, t-shirt, or corset top to avoid looking too boxy and drawing attention away from the hips. Fitted crop tops look great on both low rise mini and midi skirts alike. As a tip for skirts: size up, and wear a medium-width belt to make it fit well on your hips.
I hope this article gave you some ideas on how to style the trousers and skirts you thought you’d never take out again! The Y2K revival has been a great reminder that every style comes back around eventually. Book a complimentary phone consultation with me HERE to get started discovering your personal style, and to start dressing with your body’s silhouette in mind. Until next time, peace out, and happy shopping!
