Flares are fitted through the hip and thigh, then open out below the knee. It's a shape that lengthens your legs and looks great with chunky sneakers. Here's how to make it street, not costume.
Flared jeans
The Women's Vintage Wash Flared Leg Jeans (370 gsm) has a touch of stretch so the hip and thigh fit closely before the flare opens up. Pair it with:
- A fitted crop top like the Women's V-Neck Ringer Crop T-Shirt.
- A cropped sweatshirt like the Women’s Vintage Wash Crop Sweatshirt.
- An off-shoulder top like the Women’s Off-the-Shoulder T-Shirt.
Flared sweatpants
Comfort with shape. The Women’s Vintage Wash Flared Sweatpants and the Flared Sweatpants (420 gsm) give the same leg-lengthening line in soft fleece. The Women’s Vintage Wash Ruched Sweatpants adds ruching for extra detail.
Length matters most
Flares should almost touch the floor with your shoes on. Too short and the flare looks cut off. If you're between lengths, choose longer and wear a chunkier sole.
Shoes
Platform sneakers, chunky runners and boots all work. Avoid very slim shoes, which look lost under a wide hem.
Balance the top
Flares carry volume at the hem, so keep the top fitted or cropped. A boxy oversized top on top of flares tends to hide your shape.
Three ways to style flares
Retro
Flared jeans, a fitted ringer tee and chunky sneakers. Add small hoops and a shoulder bag for a full 70s-meets-Y2K look.
Sporty
Flared sweatpants, a cropped zip hoodie and running shoes. It's comfortable enough for errands and looks finished.
Elevated
Dark flared jeans, an off-shoulder bell sleeve top like the Women's Off-the-Shoulder Bell Sleeve Crop T-Shirt and platform boots.
Flares for different heights
Flares are one of the most flattering shapes for petite frames because they extend the leg line. Wear a platform shoe and let the hem almost cover it. Taller frames can wear flat sneakers and still get the full effect.
Washes and fabric
Light vintage washes feel casual and summery, while darker washes look sleeker. In fleece, a heavier fabric like the 420 gsm Flared Sweatpants keeps the flare structured so it doesn't collapse at the knee.
FAQ
Are flared sweatpants okay outside the house?
Yes. A washed, heavyweight flare looks deliberate, especially with a cropped top and clean sneakers.
Should flares be tight at the thigh?
Close-fitting, yes, but not tight. You should be able to sit comfortably. Stretch blends help.
Can men wear flares?
Yes. Slight flares and bootcut-style legs are growing in menswear, especially with chunky boots or sneakers.
Do flares work with oversized tops?
They can if you tuck the front of the top in, which keeps your waistline visible.
Shop flares and more in the women's collection.