How To Style Flared Pants To Channel The ‘70s Aesthetic

If you had the chance to live in one decade for fashion purposes, which would you choose? Anytime this conversation crops up in conversations, my answer always remains the same: the '70s. My style icons are Farrah Fawcett and Olivia Newton-John, dressed in bell sleeves and platform boots. Like the music and culture of the era, the fashion trends back then were all about carefree fun. If you're also drawn to the decade, you'll be glad to know that many styles, including (most recently) groovy flared trousers, have made a comeback. But a flared pants outfit these days doesn't have to feel like dressing from a time capsule.

Mickey Freeman, a celebrity stylist who works with Peyton List and Shannon Thornton, tells TZR that flare pants are synonymous with the now ubiquitous '60s and '70s style we are seeing on the runways and city streets (like clogs, colorful beaded jewelry, feathered hair, and brown leather everything). The retro bottoms are just one part of a ‘70s style revival that has been seen on both women and men alike. "Flared pants, in my opinion, are popular right now because after the very lengthy 'skinny pant and jean era,' people are wanting to explore different shapes that achieve a different overall silhouette," Freeman explains. Factor in fashion’s current obsession with comfort, and relaxed flares in all forms are a welcome option.

If you're feeling nostalgic and want to channel a groovy vibe, choose a super flared silhouette coupled with a cool platform boot or sandal. But for a more modern take, pair the trendy pants with a luxe loafer and denim jacket or leather blazer. And if you want to know how to style flared pants in a way that just dips your toes into the trend, choose denim with a subtle flare at the bottom from beloved brands, such as Agolde and Acne Studios.

Set your sweat pants aside for a while and opt for flared pants. If you need help styling them, below are 15 ideas to put you in the right direction.

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All-Black & A Pop Of Color

Attention New Yorkers: A flared pair of trousers is the perfect bottom to wear with all your all-black outfits. Give the look extra intrigue by finishing with a playful bag or one pop-of-color layering piece.

Monochromatic Earthtone

Head-to-toe white and black will always be chic, but try something new by going for a monochromatic earthtone, such as this army green ensemble. Try the look with a super flared trouser with a low-cut cardigan.

Under A Dress

Swapping out your tights for a pair of flared jeans under a dress is a styling trick that will instantly make your outfit look purposeful and anything but ordinary.

Playful Prints

For a playful and comfy option, choose a printed matching set that you can wear both out or at home.

Tailored Trousers

Try out flared trousers for a polished work-to-happy hour option. For an elevated approach to the bottoms, choose a tailored blazer and bow-tie blouse on top.

With A Simple Tee

Looking to embrace some retro tradition with a pair of flares? There’s nothing more ‘70s than wearing some flared blue jeans with a fitted striped t-shirt. Think: Jackie from That ‘70s Show.

Casually Baggy

Embrace the return of baggy jeans by styling a relaxed pair of flares with a fitted tank. Add a belt to create balance with the slouchier bottoms.

Leather Weather

Mixing together different textures will make any outfit interesting. Instead of skinny leather pants that make it hard to step out of the house in, choose a flared silhouette. Add on a shacket and you're ready to battle even the breeziest of nights.

Flared Leggings

Flared legging (or yoga pants, as millennials know them) have become popular thanks to TikTok. For a casual weekend look, take cues from Emma Chamberlain above and pair the sporty pants with a cropped long sleeve top, cardigan, and chunky sneakers.

Match Your Loungewear

Skip leggings and dress up a cool graphic sweatshirt with vivid flare trousers. Choose a hue that matches the cozy top to pull everything together.

Sharp Suiting

Flared trousers are a cool way to wear a suit without it feeling too corporate, so you can roll up to the office looking trendy (and staying comfortable at the same time). Or, for a more casual vibe, wear these flares out to dinner instead of your go-to dress and sandals.

Luxe & Formal

Flared pants don’t have to be just for casual or business settings. Opt for a pair of flared trousers to elevate an outfit for a formal occasion by wearing them alongside heels and a delicate top.

Contrasting Colors

Fight gloomy weather days and summer storms with the brightest pieces hanging in your closet. A bold yellow blouse and bubblegum pink flared trousers make for a striking duo.

Slight Flare

Ease into the silhouette by trying denim with a slight flare at the bottom. Make the look feel more modern by pairing the bottom with a sleek heeled bootie and finishing off with a loose leather jacket.

Classically Chic

Channel your inner French girl aesthetic with this effortlessly chic combo: a loose-fit button-down shirt tucked into a pair of flared jeans. Style the look with a sleek updo and classy minimal accessories, such as sunglasses or gold hoop earrings.