CULOTTES

We've been waxing poetic about culottes for almost a year now. And while the trouser trend has caught fire among the fashion flock, the wide-legged-ness and cropped-ness of these not-quite-shorts-not-yet-pants still can pose a challenge in our everyday personal wardrobes.

The wide-legged pant style can look super sophisticated when worn right, offering the elegance of a mid-length skirt.

A very cool effect of culottes is that they put your footwear on display. A simple, more fitted trouser puts the emphasis on a bright sandal or heel (heeled sandal).

Sometimes you don't have to mess with a good thing and the classic black culottes is proof. The voluminous trouser can easily garner admiring sidewalk stares without the help of a crazy pattern or color combo. Let it shine with a simple but high contrast black and white palette.

A lighter fabric, like linen or cotton is primed for the warmer months. So treat the culotte like your basic late-spring maxi. Find a neutral colorway that'll fit in with your off-duty staples- white T-shirt, denim jacket and ankle boots.

Easy, breezy: lightweight culotte let you get a head start on that poolside ensemble, with a little extra coverage to protect your thighs from the occasional late-spring chill.

If you're particularly tall or extra petite, it can be difficult to find a pair that hits where it should on the leg. Try a super short culotte that shows off the legs and hits above the knee. The extra volume and short length make your stems look longer and leaner, especially with a little heel.

The typical culotte hits around the middle of the lower leg. Many are afraid this isn't a flattering spot, but just embrace it. A pair like this almost look like a midi skirt, as it flows away from the body almost creates a voluminous A-line shape, flattering the waist and accentuating the ankles.

Some pairs hit right at the ankle- a bit long than your average culotte length. They look great with a platform shoe and crop top whether you're petite and curvy or tall and lanky.