High-waisted pants are a chic cut, yes, but they also work miracles to flatter, support and slim any figure at any age. They define the waist with a waistband that sits just above it, emphasizing the midriff while simultaneously controlling bulge, lengthening legs and adding curves. Who wouldn’t want that? For those who need more convincing (you shouldn’t), high-waisted pants also parse the body into thirds — the most favorable portions for optimizing a balanced, flattering and attractive silhouette. Styling them is all about maintaining these proportions, so here are some pro tips and tricks for those miracle-working high-waisted pants:

1. Classic shirting
   A crisp, clean and tucked-in white shirt is always a great pairing with high-waisted pants. It keeps the color palette minimalist which allows the waistline to stay the star of the show. It also sets the stage for a statement belt or pendant necklace, both of which direct more attention to the waist. To avoid looking stiff, style with a popped collar and sloppy sleeve-roll to keep the vibe cool and casual. For suiting, try pinstripe shirting to continue the lengthening effect above the waist that the high-waisted pants achieve below the waist.

2. Sweater sets
   Pairing anything cropped above the waist with high-waisted pants will keep proportions in thirds, which sweater sets achieve. In winter try wool trousers with a premium cashmere sweater set for an elevated look, or mohair for a softer edge. Look for cotton sweater sets in spring and summer in fun floral, animal or abstract prints, and pair with cotton high-waisted pants in white or fun, on-trend colors. Style with a metallic kitten heel to complete the lady-like vibe.

3. Turtleneck
   For a high drama silhouette, wear high-waisted, flare bottom jeans with a classic black turtleneck. The simple pairing is subtle but powerful. Find a pair of jeans with stretch denim technology (read: tummy control and butt-lifting features) then add a cozy, cuddly turtleneck to feel like a million bucks. To draw even more attention to the waist, try rolling up your favorite scarf and wearing as a belt.

4. Vest
   Menswear suiting is always a good match with feminine silhouettes, making a tailored vest and high-waisted, va-va-voom pants the perfect pairing. Try pinstriped trousers and adding layers to the vest — a sleek bodysuit or classic shirting underneath, or a cropped blazer or faux fur jacker over. Just make sure the waistline stays accentuated and the silhouette remains divided into thirds.

5. Denim shirt
   The Canadian tuxedo is iconic, showstopping and forever stylish. The denim-on-denim look is also super versatile with its ability to be dressed up or down. Try a long, high-waisted trouser jean with statement flare, a western-style denim shirt, sparkly chandelier earrings and strappy sandals for an evening look. In summer, style a classic chambray shirt fully tucked, half-tucked or knotted in front with a high-rise, ankle fray cropped jean and clogs, espadrilles or a cork wedge. Like I said — iconic, showstopping and forever stylish.

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