A bad fit is the quickest way to ruin a great outfit. In fact fit is one of the most essential components to having smashing style, though the least talked about and most ever-changing. Pants in particular can either help our appearance or hurt it, especially as we age when some silhouettes stop being flattering. The rule of thumb is to know your shape, know when it changes and adjust accordingly. There are always flattering silhouettes for every body shape at every age, so consider these trouser cuts the next time you update your basics:

1. Mid-rise
   Mid-rise trousers sit comfortably at the natural waist, making them easy to belt or tuck a top. It’s a traditional waistline, so try traditional fabrics like classic wool in herringbone, houndstooth or glen plaid. Keep the fit relaxed through the leg and pair with a classic turtleneck, statement belt and trench coat, or white shirting and sweater coat. Keep the look traditional with classic loafers, spectators or suede driving mocs in a pop of color for a pop of fun.

2. High-waisted
   High-waisted silhouettes keep the body parsed in thirds, which are the optimal proportions for a flattering appearance. The line also lengthens for a taller, stronger silhouette, plus the high waist helps with tummy control. Try a high-waisted trouser jean with a classic t-shirt, long statement blazer and fashion sneaker for an urban, sophisticated look. To accentuate your feminine side, pair jeans with a cropped sweater set, ballerina flats and a statement handbag for a softer, ladylike message.

3. Wide leg
   Wide leg trousers are the easiest to wear thanks to their roomy fit and stylish cut. Choose lighter weight fabrics with drape like Tensel®, gaberdine or polyester blends and opt for pleated details if your shape is wider above the waist, or no pleats if it’s wider below it. Keep the hem long for the most high-style look and pair with a tank or tee and cropped blazer, jacket or shacket for a weekday look, or a turtleneck and puffer coat for a weekend uniform. Either way, a classic Chelsea boot or fashion sneaker work great with both looks.

4. Bootleg
   Bootleg trousers never go out of style, plus they’re universally flattering. The shape is a straight cut to the knee then an eased, gentle flare to the hem. The flare adds shape but is not exaggerated, making it flattering and trend-proof at once. It’s a great shape for every day cotton blend trousers or bootleg jeans paired with classic shirting and a quilted jacket or cozy, unstructured cashmere cardigan wrap. Naturally, pair them with boots!

5. Ankle crop
   Ankle crop pants are longer, and perhaps lesser known, than the classic Capri. They have a gentle taper that ends at the ankle bone, not above it, remaining not too narrow through the leg or hem. Creased ones are a bit more dressy and sharp but require dry cleaning, while uncreased ones are more casual with easy care, wash and wear. Ankle crop trousers transition well from spring to summer and pair best with a tunic, jean jacket and summer sandal or espadrille. It’s an easy-breezy look at any age!

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