Elegance, in flared pants!
After a series of tops—sweaters, jackets, and coats—the long-awaited bottoms finally make their debut in this series. Editor Tomoki Yusuke has picked out flared pants, which he's currently obsessed with. Don't think they're too difficult to pull off; the editor will share a few tips to help anyone style them chicly.
Direction by SUKEZANE TomokiPhotographs by YAMAGUCHI KenichiStyling by KAWAI KohtaText by HATAKEYAMA SatokoGrooming by ODAIKYO
Vol. 7: Obsessive Flair: Flared Pants
Yusuke“In previous installments, I’ve focused on items that caught my eye, particularly tops. But for bottoms this fall and winter, it’s this one item only: ‘flared pants.’ They’ve been my absolute obsession since last year.
I’ve been wearing flared pants from Tom Ford and Gucci for about a year now. The key is choosing wool or corduroy materials, rather than just any flare. I’m drawn to styles that can be worn chicly, like dress slacks, rather than casual ones.
The crucial point when choosing is the fit around the waist and hips. It’s important that they fit snugly around the waist. The fit here also influences how beautifully the flare drapes from the knee to the hem. Ideally, the pants should be long enough to just graze the top of your heels.
Personally, I love pleated skirts among women’s items; I always admire how they sway elegantly when caught by the wind. These flared pants are similar—the way the hem moves with each step makes the overall look feel graceful, which I really like. Even with the same top, they create a completely different impression compared to skinny pants.”
GUCCI
Yusuke“These are a pair that truly embody the essence of flared pants. The traditional Glen check pattern gives them a beautiful country feel, and the orange accent line is eye-catching. Details like the beltless design add a playful touch. Deciding what to pair them with is the challenge, but I recommend short down vests, short jackets, or long jackets that fully cover the hips. Personally, I plan to wear them with a simple sweater, or a coat over a sweater without a jacket.”
GUCCI
Yusuke“At first glance, they look like sportswear. But upon closer inspection, the material and details reveal their luxurious, dressy nature. The iconic Gucci ‘Web Stripe’ is featured as a side stripe, boldly oversized, which is a cool touch. It also cleverly accentuates the flared silhouette. The seam pockets, integrated into the seams along the side, are a brilliant design that doesn’t interfere with the hip fit.”
GUCCI
Yusuke“The houndstooth pattern with red accents is charming. They can also be worn as a suit with the matching jacket, which is available. Although they have a casual, slack-like design, the flare is as elegant as the other pants mentioned. They brilliantly blend different styles, a hallmark of Gucci.”
PRADA
Yusuke“These pants are made from substantial Shetland wool with a casual, five-pocket design. The balanced mix is quite appealing. While the silhouette is closer to bootcut than flare, the combination with the traditional material gives them a sophisticated look. The widening hemline is also beautifully executed.”
PRADA
Yusuke“In my previous feature on country jackets (Vol. 4), I highly recommended wide-wale corduroy, and I’m equally hooked on pants made from it. This two-tone beige and ebony colorway is particularly fresh and has a distinct 70s vibe. It reminds me of my older brother’s friends who used to visit, often wearing corduroy pants in similar colors with Oxford shirts in blue or pink.”
PRADA
Yusuke“Wide-wale corduroy can look completely different depending on the color, so I also like deeper shades like this. Pay attention to the vintage-inspired details, such as the wider belt loops and the tab on the hip pocket. This applies to most flared pants, but it’s best to pair them with either a wide belt or an extremely narrow one. Styling that plays with balance really stands out.”
TA CA Si
Yusuke“The D-ring with the matching fabric belt is an interesting detail. Although they have a bold flared silhouette, they’re stretchy and comfortable to wear—a well-made pair of pants. Japanese pants often have a distinctive hip pattern that makes it difficult to reach into the pockets, but these pants are well-designed in that regard too.”
SPOT LIGHT
JW ANDERSON
Yusuke“For the past three years or so, Jonathan W. Anderson has really captured my attention. He became the creative director of Loewe, runs his own brand, and is generating a lot of buzz this season with his collaboration with Uniqlo. He’s young and talented, of course, but the fact that he’s also good-looking is a major plus. While creators don’t necessarily need to be beautiful, I believe that when attractive people create beautiful clothing, it enhances the dreams and aspirations associated with fashion.”
JW ANDERSON
Yusuke“Baggy pants, compared to flared pants, are harder to style and can be difficult to pull off without a certain height. Shorter individuals might end up looking like they’re being overwhelmed by the clothes. The charm lies in the way the hem sways when you walk. Find the length that suits you best, while carefully considering the balance that creates an elegant appearance.”
