I didn’t Think I Could Wear Culottes Until Now

If you read any of the bi-weekly stories I write for Mode, you will quickly notice that I often look to Solange Knowles and Olivia Palermo to demonstrate the styling techniques I talk about over there. They just always get it right.

When Palermo released her line at Nordstrom, a collaboration with Chelsea28, I just knew I would want every single item. The line features a few pairs of culottes, and I must say that her styling of them made we want to try a pair despite the style being potentially overwhelming on my short self. I was especially curious to try on the Olivia Palermo + Chelsea28 high rise denim culottes. Somehow, I never made it into Nordstrom to see the pieces in person. Recently, though, I found a more affordable alternative for those pants.

Top: H&M (sold out online, still in some stores)

Culottes: Express

Scarf: Printed Village (similar, option)

Clutch: Kate Spade (cool new Kate Spade clutch)

Shoes: J.Crew (sandal version)

Earrings: Kendra Scott

Rings: Kendra Scott, Kendra Scott (on sale)

Bracelets: c/o Simply Chic

Watch: Movado (in silver)

The pair of denim culottes I found is equally fly. It has the same vintage-inspired style, on-trend high rise, and frayed hem as the Palermo pair, but they are priced much lower. I actually snagged a pair for under $42 during a store-wide promotional sale. I was pleased with the fit too. These culottes were clearly cut to accommodate curves. For reference, I’m wearing a size 4.

A closer look at the arm candy:

Kendra Scott “Jordan” ring | Kendra Scott “Odette” ring (on sale)

Simply Chic cuff bangles in gold, rose gold, and silver

Since I’m shorter, I’ll likely wear these culottes with heels most of the time to elongate my legs. Last Saturday, though, Howard and I were moving around the city, so flats were a must. Surprisingly, the culottes looked good even with the ankle strap flats I wore. These are special pants.