And Now, the Controversial Trend Already Taking Over for Spring
Recent runways have made one thing clear: Y2K fashion is back. For spring, brands ushered in so many takes on 2000s style that it cannot be ignored. What's more, it is already continuing into the upcoming collections, so I know it's not a fleeting trend. This time around, however, brands have reimagined original trends with modern twists that make them more wearable, in my opinion. Just look at the updated takes on low-rise pants, one of the most controversial trends of the season.
While the trend might conjure images of Paris Hilton in tight jeans with a two-inch rise, low-rise pants have been rethought in 2024. Now, we're seeing styles with wider and slouchier silhouettes, long inseams, and rises that sit underneath the waist. The updated proportions feel much more approachable, and there are so many cool outfits to adopt from the runways and fashion set if you're looking for some styling inspiration. Ahead, you'll find the best ways to wear the low-rise pants trend.
Low-Rise Chinos
Miu Miu always makes a strong case for low-rise silhouettes in their runway collections. While its miniskirts are already going viral, my attention is on the brand's low-rise khaki pants finished with the perfect amount of slouch.
Low-rise chinos look so fresh and don't require a midriff-baring look. Just add a crew-neck sweater, a belt, and pointed heels for an easy and directional look.
Shop:
Low-Rise Jeans
No brand is leaning more heavily into the Y2K reboot than Blumarine, so it comes as no surprise that many pairs of low-rise pants were spotted in the brand's spring collection.
Style low-rise jeans with a hoodie, a tailored blazer, and heels for an updated take on a classic outfit formula.
Shop:
Low-Rise Trousers
Tailoring gets a makeover each season. This time around, designers like Bevza embraced trousers that sit low on the hips with a relaxed shape.
A nipped-in bustier top provides the right proportions to ground a pair of wide low-rise pants.
Shop:
Low-Rise Cargo Pants
Utilitarian fashion is another category on the rise. The low-rise cargos spotted at brands such as Coperni tap into Y2K styles popularized during the era. Just think about the Maharishi pants that became a cult buy after Jennifer Aniston was snapped wearing them in the aughts.
You can also try out a denim version of cargo pants. Pair them with a classic sweater to offset the slouchy style.
Shop:
Colorful Low-Rise Pants
You didn't think I'd leave out bold shades, did you? Designers also combined low-rise pants with vibrant hues—arguably one of the other major trends for spring.
If you're not sure how to style bold color, tonal looks always work.
This story was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Kristen Nichols is the Associate Director, Special Projects at Who What Wear where she oversees luxury, runway content, and wedding features, and covers fashion within the luxury market, runway reporting, shopping features, trends, and interviews with leading industry experts. Kristen has worked with brands including Prada, Chanel, and Tiffany & Co., and her style has been featured in publications including Vogue.com, Vogue France, WWD, and the CFDA. Kristen began her career at Rodarte, where she worked on styling, photo shoots, and runway shows, and at Allure, where she moved into print and digital editorial. She graduated from the University of Southern California, where she studied art history and business, and currently lives in New York.
-
Hold the Basic Jeans—This "Dated" Denim Trend Is on Its Way Back
Get ready for this comeback.
-
24 Chic Under-$100 Nordstrom Anniversary Sale Finds That Are Taking Over My Fashion-Editor Text Group
Longchamp, Levi's, Madewell, and more.
-
I Swear By Elegant Outfits—35 Standout Items That Would Fit Right Into My Closet
Here's to a chicer outfit rotation.
-
Too Hot to Think? Try These 33 Chic Summer Finds From Revolve That Basically Style Themselves
Matching sets and lovely lace styles.
-
This Is the Sofia Coppola Way to Style Jeans for Summer
We're beguiled.
-
Low-Rise Jeans and Ballet Flats Look Dated Compared to This Trending Jeans-and-Sneaker Combo
Confirmed by Dakota Johnson and Natalie Portman.
-
Linens, Trousers, and Button-Downs, Oh My! These 30 Banana Republic Sale Picks Are Summer Magic
Up to 60% off.
-
If You Hate Denim Shorts, It's Because You're Not Styling Them With *This* Fresh and Sophisticated Shoe Trend
Hold the sneakers.