Sometimes even the smallest and simplest of details can add a high-fashion spin to your outfit. You really don’t always need to make a bold statement with bright colors or even the shape of your items - it can just be down to subtle touches to bring a very chic feel to your look.
Michelle Williams proves my point perfectly with her latest ensemble, using her pants to show off her effortless style know-how. The 44-year-old star was spotted out in Los Angeles, wearing a low-key butter yellow shirt and blue jacket ensemble, which she pepped up with a pair of black split flare pants and some slip-on mules.
The calf-high slit on her straight leg bottoms added some interest to her classic separates without feeling OTT, and the gentle flare shape makes them more flattering than anything very fitted or clingy. It's a minimal yet stylish feature that really works, and is certainly inspiring my new season closet.
The split flare was very popular during the 90s and 00s and is the latest in a long line of retro trends to be back in the spotlight again. It’s a big look right now, and you are spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping options to copy Michelle.
Shop Split Flare Trousers
For a smarter take on the trend, opt for a slightly wider leg pair of pants like these. Style them with a fresh white shirt, loafers and an elegant trench coat for a day at the office.
This almost identical pair of pants will recreate Michelle's look for a low-key weekend. The high waist fit will be very flattering, and they are available in sizes XS-XL. They'd look very chic teamed with the Sezane Gaspard cardigan we can't stop raving about.
The slit at the front of these pants creates a wider flare shape that will sit well with your best white trainers or show off your favorite high heels.
How to style yours
This woven black accessory is one of the best quiet luxury handbags of the season, and the understated design will work with absolutely every outfit in your current rotation.
This utility-style overshirt is very similar to Michelle's cover-up and will work nicely with everything from black trousers to a denim skirt. Be quick if you love it, because there are limited sizes left!
Truly like wearing your slippers outside in the best way, you might find these minimalist mules are much comfier than ballet flats. In a neutral hue they'll work with everything.
If you invest in a split detail pair of black pants like Michelle's, you'll get just as much wear out of them as your favorite jeans, but they'll have a much smarter feel.
The fuss-free shape means they'll pair with most prints and colours nicely, so why not try wearing yours with everything from bold Breton stripes to leopard spots?
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