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Wearing wide leg pants over 50 is totally doable and yes, they look great! I used to wear skinny jeans a lot, thinking that they made me appear thinner than I was.
The truth is that wide leg jeans are much more flattering, especially when the rest of the outfit is balanced accordingly.
Wide-leg jeans have made a comeback lately, and for good reason. They’re stylish and flattering for different body types. This makes them a great choice for more mature women.
Personally, I prefer high-waisted styles that define my waist while keeping everything from tumbling over the waistband, if you know what I mean. You can dress them up for a more polished look, or dress them down by wearing classic bell bottoms and a casual shirt.
Women’s Wide Leg High Waisted Jeans
Casual, High Waisted Jeans
Machine Wash!
- Stretchy fabric for comfort
- Multiple color options
- Wide-leg jeans
- Perfect for many body shapes
26″ Inseam Cropped Wide Leg Jeans
How to Embrace the Fashion Trend of Wearing Wide Leg Pants Over 50
Wide-leg jeans have become my go-to wardrobe staple. I always feel comfortable and confident wearing them. My favorite jeans of all time are Tribal, a designer from Montreal.
I mentioned this in practically every fashion post because I’m in love with the brand, not because I get any commission from promoting them. Besides, they don’t need me for promotion! Their brand speaks for itself.
Like many wider pants, Tribal offers a variety of different styles, colors, and embellishments. My friends poke fun at me, but I love wide-leg jeans with a design.
Is it a bold choice? Maybe. But I don’t care. At my age, I do what I want.
Try Them On!
Do you dislike trying on jeans at the store? Me too! The lighting is usually weird and it’s hard to get a sense of whether I’m actually going to be comfortable in them all day.
I suggest ordering a few different styles. Try different colors (dark wash jeans are flattering on any body shape). If you’re looking for a way to enhance your figure, opt for jeans with vertical lines or a darker wash, which can create a lengthening effect.
Complete The Outfit
I’ve never been one to jump on every fashion trend, but I am glad to see wide leg pants in style. More specifically, I’m happy to see high-waisted wide-leg jeans.
Unless you’re going for the boho style over 50 look (which is also great!), you can amp up the sophistication of wide leg jeans by pairing them with a sleek blazer and pointed shoes.
Keep reading to discover the best wide-leg jeans that flatter your shape and elevate your wardrobe!
Style Rules for Wearing Wide-Leg Pants Over 50
Wide-leg pants are a stylish and comfortable choice for women of all ages, but they can feel a little tricky to style—especially if you’re over 50.
The key is to find balance and proportion so your outfit looks polished and flattering. Here are some simple tips to help you wear wide-leg pants with confidence.
The Power of Proportion
Wide-leg pants add volume to your lower half, so it’s important to balance them out with a more fitted top.
A crop top that hits the top of high-waisted jeans works well because it defines your waist and keeps your look sleek. If you prefer tops with a longer length, try tucking them in to create a flattering silhouette.
High-Waisted Styles Work Best
A high-waisted pair of wide-leg pants is a great choice for women over 50.
It elongates your legs and helps avoid the dreaded muffin top. Look for styles in a dark wash for a slimming effect, especially if you’re petite.
Petite Women, Take Note
If you’re on the shorter side (like I am at 5″0), petite sizes are your best friend.
They’re designed with the right proportions to fit your frame without overwhelming you. Best news for me is that Tribal offers petite jeans. Did I say they’re perfect already? They’re perfect.
Pairing your wide-leg pants with a cropped jacket or a fitted turtleneck can also help create a more structured look. Create the illusion of longer legs with a pair of heels.
You might want to try a platform heel for added height. You could even lean into the boho style over 50 trend by accessorizing with long necklaces, and a cropped cardigan.
Dress It Up or Keep It Casual
Wide-leg pants can be styled for any occasion.
For a more polished look, go for a tailored, more fitted top. If you want a more casual look, try pairing them with a relaxed blouse or a lightweight sweater.
Look For “Forgiveness Jeans”
Okay, “forgiveness jeans” is a term I made up. I think it’s fair to say that many jeans on the market are designed to have a slight stretch, which is great.
I always look at the tag before spending more than a $100 on a good pair of jeans. First, I want to make sure they are machine washable and dryer safe. Most of them are, just follow the washing guidelines on the tag.
Second, I want to make sure there’s a small amount of elastane in the material. Jeans made of 1-5% elastane will give you enough stretch so that you don’t ever feel pinched at the waist when sitting, squatting, or bending over.
Look for these common blends for wearing wide leg pants over 50:
- Cotton + Elastane (Spandex/Lycra)
- Cotton + Polyester + Elastane
- Cotton + Rayon + Polyester + Elastane
Wearing Wide Leg Pants Over 50: Tips & Styling Guide
Finding the right pair of wide-leg pants can make all the difference in your style and confidence.
The best options are comfortable, stylish, and easy to dress up or down. Personally, I shop at Cazza Petites for my jeans, but there are countless options out there.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxed everyday look or something more polished, there’s a perfect pair for you.
High-Waisted Styles for a Sleek Look
A high-waisted pair of wide-leg pants is one of the most flattering choices, especially for women over 50.
This style defines your waist, elongates your legs, and creates a balanced silhouette. Wide pants with a bit of stretch offer extra comfort while still looking polished.
The following sections contain information, tips, and tricks to get the most out of wearing a wider leg pant.
Try Dark Wash Jeans for a Slimming Effect
If you’re worried about wide pants making you look bigger, opt for a dark wash or a solid neutral color.
Darker shades create a slimming effect and work well for both casual and formal outfits. Pair them with a fitted top to maintain a balanced look.
Petite-Friendly Options
For shorter women, finding the right pair of wide-leg pants is all about proportion.
Petite sizes are designed to fit smaller frames without overwhelming them. Cropped styles or ankle-length wide pants are great choices, as they prevent the fabric from looking too bulky.
Dress Them Up with High Heels
For a more formal event, pair your wide-leg pants with high heels.
The extra height helps elongate your legs and gives the outfit an elegant touch. Whether you choose sleek pumps or heeled boots, the combination of wide pants and heels creates a stylish, sophisticated look.
Cut, Fabric, and Washability
I’m really glad I decided to tray wide-leg jeans. At this point, I only have one pair (Tribal!) in my wardrobe. But don’t worry, more pairs are on the way!
Unlike traditional skinny or straight-leg jeans, wide-leg denim provides a relaxed yet elevated look, depending on how you accessorize. Personally, I love the way the extra fabric at the ankles moves when I walk.
As I mentioned earlier, check the labels before buying the jeans. Although I’ve never come across a pair of “dry clean only” jeans, you might find that in a trouser jean, or something made with fabric like linen, wool, or silk.
I don’t “dry clean” anything. So, in order to get the most from my clothes without ruining them, I find it easier to just check the label. If I see the words “machine wash”, I’m happy.
Choose Jeans That Feel Good The Minute You Try Them On
The best wide-legged jeans are made from high-quality denim that offers structure without feeling too stiff.
I remember saying things like “they’ll break in” when I was younger. I don’t have the time or patience for that now. They must feel amazing from day one.
Look for options with a bit of stretch for comfort or a softer, broken-in fabric for a more relaxed, effortless feel.
Cropped vs. Full-Length Styles
If you’re a petite woman wearing wide leg pants over 50, I recommend a full-length jean. Cropped pants of any kind seem just make me feel, and look, short.
HOT TIP:
Here’s the thing: If I buy cropped jeans in a regular size, they hit right at my ankles (perfect!). However, if I buy cropped jeans in a petite size, they end up hitting about two or three inches above my ankle. I don’t love that look.
Now, if you’re a long-legged beauty (I envy you!), you have the luxury of both options. Ultimately, choosing between cropped and full-length wide-leg jeans depends on your personal preference and styling needs.
Vintage Washes for a Timeless Look
One of the best things about wide-leg jeans is the variety of washes available.
A vintage-inspired wash (classic medium blue, faded light denim, or a soft distressed finish)adds character to any outfit.
Dark washes offer a more polished appearance, while lighter washes give a relaxed, casual vibe. If you’re going for a boho style over 50, look for vintage wide leg jeans in a thrift store!
It’s The Details That Make The Difference
Small design elements can take a pair of wide-legged jeans from basic to standout.
Look for options with flattering seam details, exposed buttons, or an elevated waistband to enhance the shape.
High-rise styles with a tailored waistband help define your waist, while subtle distressing adds a lived-in charm without looking overly casual.
More Style and Beauty Tips For You
Interested in learning more about makeup options and other fashion trends? I’ve written some great posts you might be interested in! Read these when you get a chance:
25 Best Lipstick Colors for Over 60
35 Medium Length Hairstyles for Thin Hair Over 60
Top Secrets on How to Conceal Under Eye Bags Over 50
Make The Jeans Work For YOU
Rules schmules right?
At the end of the day, the most important thing is to feel comfortable and confident in our clothes (and our own skin).
The best thing about being over 50 is understanding our own personal style and not really caring what other people think. Freedom!
Don’t stress out over how to style your clothes. Try different ideas and go with whatever works for you.
For example, if you want a boho-inspired look, try pairing your jeans with a flowy blouse and stacked heels.
If you prefer something more classic, try a crisp button-down or a sleek, fitted turtleneck.
Summary
Wearing wide leg pants over 50 is about your personal style and comfort.
The key is finding a really good fit, with a little “forgiveness” in the fabric. There’s nothing wrong with a little stretch to amp up the comfort factor.
High-waisted jeans are in style and can smooth out your mid-section in a very flattering way. Try a variety of fashion brands to find the one that fit you best. For me, it’s Tribal jeans. I have a high-waisted pair of wide-legged jeans and I feel amazing in them. I know, I said that already.
What brand of jeans are your favorite and why? Let me know in the comments!
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