How to Style Your Paper Bag Pants Outfit

Paper bag pants are a modern trend that’s easy to style. You can create a stylish look by teaming them with a tight top, like this blue striped long sleeve blouse paired with a draped moto jacket, as seen on Love Between the Racks.

Keep in mind that a wide-leg pair can swamp petite frames, so stick to fitted styles for proportional appeal. A fitted cami or bodysuit tucked in creates an hourglass illusion and is perfect for work.

Tie-front jumpsuits

The wide shape of paper bag waist pants adds volume to your figure, so they need to be worn with slim-fitting tops for balance. Brie Larson is a fan of this look, wearing hers with a black tank top and a draped moto jacket. If you work in an office, a fitted button-down blouse works with these pants for a smart casual outfit that’s still workplace appropriate.

When it comes to shoes, you can wear flats or pumps with your paperbag waist pants, depending on the style you choose. A pair of tall heels will elongate your legs, making them look longer and more youthful.

A short hemline on your pants will also elongate the line of your legs, so go with this option if you want to keep your look stylish and modern. The extra length of the hem will also cover up any lumps and bumps on your body, giving you a flattering silhouette.

Bustier or flirty crop tops

If you like a more flirty look, pair your paper bag pants with a playful bustier crop top. From floral printed to sheer long puff sleeves, these styles are great for adding an extra pop of feminine flair to your outfit. This style works best for women with pear or hourglass body shapes. The looser fit of the pants contrasts well with a fitted crop top, tank top or bodysuit.

Alternatively, you can also try wearing these pants with a cami and blazer for a more dressed up look. Keep in mind that if you are petite, wide-leg paper bag pants may swamp your frame, so opt for a tapered or straight-leg style.

Another option is to layer your outfit with a long knit cardi-coat or a stylish denim jacket over your paper bag pants. Make sure the coat doesn’t hang too low at the cinched waistline, otherwise it will compete with your pants. This is a look that’s perfect for casual weekend trips to the farmers market or a day of wine tasting.

Dressy pants for a night out

Paper bag pants are a fun style that’s both casual and dressy. If you’re looking for a trendy summer outfit that goes from day to night, team your favorite pair with a sultry bustier or sparkling crop top. This look is perfect for a night out with friends or a date.

To get the most flattering look, choose fitted tops and tuck them in. A cropped top is also a good choice because it will showcase the waist detail on these pants without adding extra volume. A fitted blazer is another good option because it will help balance the loose fit of these pants.

Wearing the right earrings can really complete your look. Some of the most popular styles include crawler or ear-jacket earrings that come in a wide variety of gem and bead materials. You can even find styles that make it look like you have multiple piercings, which is always a great look for summer!

Boho-inspired bottoms

The ruffled waistline of paperbag pants can add volume to your figure, especially if you go for the wide-leg version. For this reason, the best top to wear with them is a fitted one, which will balance the volume. This can be a dressy tank for a night out with your friends, a simple tee shirt if you’re headed to the mall, or a bodysuit like this look spotted by Classical Trendsetter.

If you’re looking for a casual yet stylish look, choose a pair of striped paperbag pants and team them with an off-shoulder crop top with long sleeves. Finish off the outfit with a pair of platform pumps and a leather shoulder bag.

Wide-leg denim is the new skinny jeans, so you should definitely consider switching out your usual straight-leg or skinny jeans for a pair of these trendy paperbag pants. They’re a great way to show off your legs and the vertical lines will make you appear taller.