High Waists

By Instyle
Updated Feb 27, 2012 @ 3:30 pm
Credit: Time Inc Digital Studio

High Waists

Start Slideshow

1 of 6

WHY WE LOVE IT

Credit: MCV Photo

This silhouette was a staple in the ’70s and ’80s, but nostalgia is not the reason to adopt it.Legs look longer, the dreaded "muffin top" bulge and "whale tail" thong top vanish, and anyone with a long torso canleave her blazer button undone. If you’ve been a low-rise lover, you’re in for a pleasant surprise.

HOW TO WEAR IT
High-waist ensembles are not casual-they look very much "in charge." So proportion is key: The waistband should always be visible, or what’s the point? Shirts should be tucked in or cropped high. Wide pants work best with a lean jacket; a long pencil skirt takes a looser blouse. Reach for shoes with platforms or stacked heels that let people know you mean business.

Photos: (left to right) Gucci, Ralph Lauren, Burberry Prorsum, Yigal Azrouel

Advertisement
Advertisement

2 of 6

Rachel Roy Pants

Credit: Time Inc Digital Studio

Rayon-polyester, $328; rachelroy.com.

3 of 6

Maisonette 1977 Shorts

Credit: Time Inc Digital Studio

Rayon-cotton gauze, $295; 212-695-5770.

Advertisement

4 of 6

Trina Turk Skirt

Credit: Time Inc Digital Studio

Denim-linen-cotton, $198; at Trina Turk.

5 of 6

CH Carolina Herrera Skirt

Credit: Time Inc Digital Studio

Cotton twill, $385; 212- 744-2076.

6 of 6

Camilla and Marc Pants

Credit: Time Inc Digital Studio

Cotton, $330; shopln.com.

Advertisement
Advertisement
Advertisement
Replay gallery

Share the Gallery

Up Next

By Instyle