How to Wear Denim Culottes and Gauchos

Culottes have been trending in the last few years, and one of the more popular types is denim culottes.

These are wide-cropped jeans that land just past the knee and are so full they resemble a split skirt. Often they are tied at the waist.

Culottes are often referred to as gauchos, but there is a difference. Gauchos are less flowy than culottes and look more like wide-cut off pants than a skirt. Whether you wear denim culotte or denim gauchos, there are some tricks for getting your best look.

1. Wear a Fitted Top

When you wear a wide bottom, a less entire top creates a flattering silhouette that shows off your waist.

2. Tuck in

Wearing a button-up shirt? Tuck it in, roll up the cuffs and add some bangle bracelets. Have a sweater. Push up the sleeves and do a half-tuck in the front. A tuck or half tuck look highlights your waist and elongates the cropped pants, making your legs look longer.

3. Show Off Your Cute Shoes (or Boots)

Wedges or block heels will make your legs look longer, but a pair of cute flats can be attractive and comfy. Try a snake print, leopard, or another cute ballet flat, slide, or statement sneaker. Tall Boots look fantastic with denim gaucho.

4. Add a Jacket or Cardigan

A fitted blazer or long sweeping cardigan can be a charming look with a fitted top and denim culottes or gauchos.

5. Go Longer

Many culottes start to fall into the general wide-cropped pants category, and these are often flattering. Experiment with what length works for you. Generally, the taller you are, the better the long gauchos or culottes will look.

Check out this post for more ideas on how to wear culottes without looking awkward. It has many other great ideas for what to wear with wide-cropped pants.

If you like culottes but not denim, check out these summer culottes.