If we're going to get through this article together, you may as well know where I stand from the get-go. So, here it is: My favorite pant silhouette is the controversial cropped flare. Contrary to popular opinion, I'd go as far to say that they are some of the most flattering pants I have ever worn — and with some hard-argued reasoning, I think you could be convinced, too.
Let's start by laying out some facts: Before cropped flares, I rarely wore jeans. I am no waif and I am not sample-size. I have a body. With that said, a lot of jeans make me feel like I'd just rather not wear pants at all. Skinnies had my legs feeling like they were stuffed into a sausage casing and their skin-tight cut didn't do my ankles any favors, either. A great pair of baggy jeans, which I love, are hard to find if you have a booty; the loose fit doesn't always hang right. Regular flares highlight my hips and thighs — while that might be ideal for people trying to catcall me on the street, the silhouette really isn't ideal. Basically, I was left with nothing.
That is, until the cropped flare came back — more specifically, the high-waisted cropped flare. For one, a high waist seems to always look good. Secondly, the cropped-bell hem shows off your ankle, giving your body a reference point and making the jean not about more than just your butt and thighs (unlike a full-length flare). Lastly, the cropped hem means that they'll look just as good with sneakers as they will with flats, heels, or any other shoe.
Trust me, I get it, we all have our qualms with certain denim silhouettes (see above) and it's hard to try something you already "know" you don't like. But I am a picky denim consumer and I really believe in the power of the cropped flare. And if you say they're not for you, in my opinion, you just haven't found the right pair. I suggest trying on a few totally different pairs and finding the magic for yourself. Ahead, some options to consider.
I love cropped flares so much, I've even designed a pair of my own. Take a look at this story to see me wax on even more.
Earnest Sewn Rachel Denim Trouser, $185, available at Earnest Sewn.
Keep it low-key with a dark wash and subtle flare.
Madewell Los Feliz Crop Flare Jeans, $128, available at Madewell.
For those who are more into a low-waisted option.
Marques'Almeida Frayed-edge Flared-leg Cropped Jeans, $363 $181, available Matchesfashion.
These jeans have seams at the base of the hem that fold out, making a pseudo-cropped flare. If you're looking for something clean, simple, and cool, you've met your match.
Re/Done Levi's Leandra Jeans, $325, available at Farfetch.
With a good price point and a fun hem, this is the perfect option for cropped-flare newbies.
Chicnova Cropped Flare Jeans, $32, available at Chicnova.
Being the hybrid of a trouser and pair of jeans means this iteration is a good investment piece. You can wear them almost anywhere.
Proenza Schouler Cropped Flare Jeans, $750, available at Farfetch.
Nailing the trend right on the head.
Topshop MOTO Raw Hem Crop Kick Flares, $74, available at Topshop.
White bottoms may not be the best idea for the spill-prone, but for those who dare to wear the shade, these are killer.
Current/Elliot The Kick Flared Jeans, $316 $221, available at MyTheresa.
Still not sold on the silhouette? Try a pair that employs an uneven hem for an extra-cool touch.
J Brand Selena Cropped Mid-rise Bootcut Jeans, $220, available at Net-A-Porter.
The durable, rough hem makes these a good choice.
M.I.H. Jeans Lou High-rise Flared Cropped Jeans, $299 $171, available at Matchesfashion.
Durable and good-looking. Double whammy.
Levi's Kick Flare Jeans, $148, available at Levi's.
For $19.99, why wouldn't you give these a shot?
H&M Cropped Flare High Jeans, $39.99 $19.99, available at H&M.
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