Where the harem did these pants come from?
The history of harem pants can be traced back to nearly 2,000 years ago worn as traditional garments in western and southwestern Asia. The pants were known there by many names depending on the region and they can be worn by both men and women. In Western culture, such as loose sagging pants were introduced as women's clothing during mid-19th century. At the time, they quickly called "bloomers" and "Turkish trousers." In the 80's and early 90's, the baggy pants or harem pants were re-fashioned into the mainstream by a super rapper M.C. Hammer. This style also has been worn by women and men, but more particularly sought after by the young consumer groups.
The come back of Harem Pants!
In 2009, the harem pants trend was making its official comeback. But unlike their late twentieth century forerunner, harem pants of modern day is a combination of a skirt and skinny pants/ jeans at knee length. The legs are typically fitted at the knees with a loose, baggy crotch area made to look as if it were designed for a skirt.
Today's harem pants are proving to be a fashion statement to be made by the sleek, sophisticated, and chic. Modified into easier, more wearable styles. Worn correctly, they are classy and comfortable.
Harem pants were seen in past seasons, especially in Spring/Summer 2009 which they made a real grand entrance. Harem pants were all over 2009- 2011 runways from New York to London and Paris to Milan. There were sequined numbers at Ralph Lauren, tropical-twist ones at Emmanuel Ungaro, and funky pants at Vivienne Westwood.
Other designers who jumped on the trend include Derek Lam, Alexander McQueen, Diane von Furstenberg, Michael Kors and many more. This new shape is hitting even high street chain stores like Mango, Zara, Forever 21 and online store like TheUrbanApparel.com. From famous fashion/brand designers to red carpet to streets, harem pants trend has been well received by celebrities and fashion influencers all around. Call them Harem, Bananas or Indian pants, the fact is undeniable.!
Last season they were billowy and clown-like but however for the year 2011, the trend to take on is a narrower, sleeker version and look surprisingly sophisticated and sexy, especially in black. To stylishly work the trend, combine these pants with a tank top, structured sharp blazer and a pair of great high heels.
Look cool in harem pants!
The most flattering shape, keep it tight on top; a camisole top or tailored jacket is perfect. Because of the volume, its important to balance out the top half with a fitted top. If you prefer one that's soft and slouchy then tuck it into the waist, and add a waist-cinching belt. Throw over a fitted blazer and you have "Easy Chic" look.
Shoes are also an issue. Get them wrong and the look is frumpy and not fashion-ready. High-heeled, strappy statement sandals work best, or this season's sexy cut-out shoe boots. If you are lucky enough to be tall, then you can get away with pretty (metallic?) bejeweled or studded flats, which look great on long legs!
Because of the volume keep the look simple and unfussy. Define a waist by wearing tops tucked in. Add some super-sized accessories to ring the changes - elaborate elasticated-back belts and cuffs are a must!
Article Source : http://goarticles.com