If fashion trends move in cycles of 20 years, then the return of the parachute trouser is right on schedule. A mainstay in the wardrobe of anyone who was anyone throughout the late '90s and early '00s, parachute trousers have since ebbed in popularity after their epic heyday… that is, until recently.
When Bella Hadid wore a pair of voluminous parachute trousers out and about, we couldn't help but soften our stance on the style. Then, Jennifer Lopez followed suit, wearing a denim pair when running errands earlier this year, and we were convinced.
Now that the parachute-pants ball is rolling, celebrities are styling the loose, barrel-leg trousers for casual jaunts and red carpets alike. Just this week, queen of street style Emily Ratajkowski wore a khaki pair to walk her dog in New York. Never one to pass up a Y2K moment, the model and podcaster wore her billowy trousers on the hip with a bedazzled baby tee and trucker hat for a look drenched innoughties nostalgia.
Of course, you can do it like EmRata and lean all in to noughties style, but it you'd rather channel something a little more current, read on for our guide to styling parachute pants in 2023.
1. Layer It On
Parachute pants add a lot of volume, but we say lean right in and stack on the layers. Clever layering with variations in fabric and length can freshen the feel of parachute pants whilst adding dimension to your look.
2. Experiment With What You Have
If you're stuck for inspiration, sift through your wardrobe and grab your favourite button-down shirt. When worn with relaxed accessories and an oversized shirt, billowy parachute pants make for the perfect weekend outfit.
3. Go Sporty
It can be tricky to style a parachute trousers with a sporty top, without entering into Sporty Spice territory. However, the casual shape of the trousers lends itself well to an athleisure look. Keep an eye out for a sporty jacket in a similar colour for a polished ensemble.
5. Big Trousers, Little Top
EmRata was on to something when she wore her larger-than-life cargo parachute pants with a baby tee. For a 2023 take, opt for micro top with more structure.
4. Try Tonal
Take inspiration from Iris Law and style with a tonal look by finding a top in the same shade as your trousers.
Shop Our Favourite Parachute Pants:
This item runs large, so you might want to consider sizing down.
R13 does a great pair of parachute pants.
The grey colourway makes for a more utilitarian feel.
Perfect for warmer days.
An easy weekend style.
Made from beautifully supple leather.
These also come in black.
Tighten the bottom elastic for a parachute style, or leave it undone for a wide-leg cut.
Style with chunky trainers or sandals.
The perfect pair to dress up.
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