How to Wear Harem Pants

Co-authored by Katie Quinn

Last Updated: January 25, 2023 References

Harem pants can be a super fun way to put together an outfit with a unique silhouette. They're billowy, sensuous and they create a sense of breadth. The best part about this style is that with a few changes to shoes and accessories, they can be perfect for the office, a date, or just lounging around the house. Some may be hesitant to wear such a bold pant, or feel unsure about what to pair them with, but there are many different options and looks you can create.

Method 1

Method 1 of 4:

Buying a Great Pair

1
Select the fabric style carefully. Some fabrics will drape more elegantly than others. Try opting for silks, cotton jersey, and other delicate fabrics that let the pants drape in all the right spots. If it seems like the fabric may easily wrinkle, search for a different pair. These pants already have a casual vibe because of their fit, so it is important to find fabric that will stay wrinkle-free.^{[1]
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2
Find a proper fit. Harem pants that sag in the center halfway down your legs are not flattering on most people. Make sure that the drop crotch is not below your mid-thigh, and that the folds are falling neatly rather than in a sloppy manner. These pants should fit so that they are not too big and baggy and not too small and tight. The key is to feel comfortable without too much excess fabric. Situate the pants to so that they sit comfortably between waist and hips.^{[2]
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- Depending on the brand, harem pants can come in standard women's sizes such as 4, 6, and 8, or they may be listed as small, medium, or large and provide a size chart for you to see which size would be right for you. Follow the suggestion of the retailer to find the best fit.
- Some brands will suggest a size alternation such as ordering a size up if you are between sizes.
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3
Choose the right color and pattern for you. Harem pants come in just about every color, style, and pattern. While picking your favorite look is up to you, there are certain styles and colors that may be more flattering for you. Here are a few helpful tips to consider:
- Women who wear plus sizes may look better is dark, solid colors and larger prints.^{[3]
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- Women who are petite may look better in lighter colors and smaller prints.^{[4]
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- For casual activities, play around with bright colors and fun patterns. For more formal occasions, stick with darker colors and solid prints.
4
Try them on in the store and be very honest with how they look. If you are unsure about the pants at the store, chances are you will not like them when you go home, no matter what top you try to pair them with. Harem pants come in many styles and fits, so if you don't love the pants you try on, keep looking. With a little effort, you can find the right fitting harem pants for you.^{[5]
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- If you're plus size, opt for a pair of pants that are made from a lightweight material and fitted with a loose waistband.^{[6]
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  Katie Quinn. Stylist. Personal interview. 8 May 2020.}

Method 2

Method 2 of 4:

Choosing the Right Top

1
Wear a crop top. Fitted, sleeveless tops will highlight and balance harem pants best.^{[7]
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Katie Quinn. Stylist. Personal interview. 8 May 2020.} Cropped jackets and tops with harem pants look great because they allow the pants to be the obvious feature. Not only do short tops help people to see that your pants are deliberately billowing, but they accentuate the style. Defining the waist is key to successfully wearing harem pants, and shorter tops help accomplish this.
- Try a structured blazer in a neutral color such as tan, white, or black that match everything to wear with your pants.^{[8]
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- Be sure not to let your waist get lost. To help define your waist, stick with a crop top, or try wearing a belt around the smallest parts of your waist.^{[9]
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2
Pick a top that stops just below the top of your pants. If you do not want to wear a crop top, or your harem pants are not high waisted enough for one, wear a shirt that cuts off just below the top of the pants. This way, your shirt will give you the coverage that you need without covering so much of the pants that it looks sloppy. The top can be slightly lose or fitted, just not baggy.
3
Tuck in your shirt. If you are wearing a longer shirt with your harem pants, it is important to tuck it in to avoid looking sloppy. A proper tuck is one that is slightly lose, but not billowy or coming undone.^{[10]
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- Watch out for shirts that are shorter in the front than in the back. These shirts do not tuck as well in the front, and you may be better off not tucking this style.

Method 3

Method 3 of 4:

Wearing Harem Pants for Different Occasions

1
Let the pants be the main focus of the outfit. These pants are meant to be bold, feminine, and sexy by having a high waist, slouchy crouch, and cropped legs. When wearing them, let your other pieces and accessories stay simple so you do not have a look with too much going on. Here are some examples:^{[11]
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- Choose a simple tank, classic heels or flats, a pair of hoop earrings, a clutch, and a cropped cardigan or blazer to complete your overall look.
- Keep jewellery to a minimum. Choose simple earnings, and either a necklace or bracelet to keep your look simple.
2
Choose harem pants for a lazy day. For those days when you feel like staying in your pajamas, throw on a pair of comfy harem pants. Pair them with a simple tank and flats to create a comfy and relaxed look.^{[12]
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3
Mix up your work style. Harem pants can be a great alternative to the everyday office slacks that you may find yourself wearing too often. When choosing a pattern, try sticking with solid colors and avoid bold prints. Pair them with a neutral silk top that ends around the waist of the pant, or tuck a longer shirt in. Add a structured blazer or cardigan, classic heels, and a piece of jewelry to be work ready.^{[13]
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4
Be extra cool for a hot date. Instead of the typical little black dress, opt for a great pair of fitted harem pants. These pants can look fierce with a pair of high heels, a fitted tank top in your favorite cut, and a clutch to hold at your side.^{[14]
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Method 4

Method 4 of 4:

Picking the Shoes

1
Wear heels. Adding height will balance out the extra material on the pants, and it also slims down the leg as the harem pants billow. Just about any heel will do, but try to wear an understated pair that does not take away from the harem pants.
- If you are on the shorter side, and feel lost in the pants, heels are especially useful. They will lengthen your leg, and will allow your pants to better flatter your body.^{[15]
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- Don't opt for booties. They tend not to look right with the tapered pant leg.^{[16]
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2
Go punk in combat boots. Combat boots can pair great with a pair of harem pants. Find a pair of harem pants that have leather detailing and zippers to increase the punk vibe. You can also try tucking your pants into your boots or cuffing them just above the shoe for an edgy style.^{[17]
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- For a sleeker look, opt for a pair of Chelsea boots. Black boots will look dressier, while brown or tan boots will make your outfit look more casual.^{[18]
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  Katie Quinn. Stylist. Personal interview. 8 May 2020.}
3
Slip on a pair of flats. If you are off running errands or grabbing lunch with a friend, slip on a simple pair of neutral flats. Harem pants that are more casual, usually the ones that start to taper right below the knee to become fitted around the calf, look the best with flats.^{[19]
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Expert Q&A

Question

What sorts of tops go well with harem pants?

Katie Quinn
Personal Wardrobe Stylist
Katie Quinn is an Image Consultant, Personal Wardrobe Stylist and the Founder of Q the Stylist, an image consulting service based in New York City helping men and women understand their specific goals, improve their wardrobe, performance, and life. She has over 11 years of image consulting experience and has worked as a stylist for Trunk Club, Modewalk, and Moda Operandi. Her work has been featured in Vogue, InStyle, Martha Stewart Weddings, Sheridan Road, Slate, Newsy, Rue, and Thrillist.

Katie Quinn

Personal Wardrobe Stylist

Expert Answer

Fitted sleeveless tops will highlight that style of pants best, and they'll give balance to the overall look.