The Curvy Girl’s Handbook for Discovering Perfectly Fitting Pants

      Pants and I have not always been on the same page. At the age of 5, my devotion to skirts and dresses was so strong that when my mother attempted to put me in a pair of pants (which, looking back, were quite cute) for school, I chose to rebel by going to class in my underwear rather than submit to the oppression of trousers. However, one day a pair of pants piqued my interest, leading me to wear them to school, disregarding the “skirts only” rule. Unfortunately, this bold choice resulted in a week-long suspension. After raising a fuss over the dress code that prohibited girls from wearing pants, the school revised its policy, allowing everyone to sport them. As I matured, my interest in the fit of pants deepened. I’ve always been aware of my curves, and frequently, my “Beyoncé booty” felt overlooked in summer dresses or A-line skirts. It baffled me that in a profession where women expend so much energy trying to shed their curves, all I desired was to showcase my slim waist and curvy backside. Consequently, I steered clear of trousers for years, as I could never find a pair that complimented my proportions (I’m not a fan of pants that gap at the waist while being tight at the hips). That changed when Nicolas Ghesquière released his F/W 05 collection for Balenciaga, featuring hip-hugging military trousers that draped elegantly at the ankles, radiating that effortlessly chic Parisian vibe. I had to embrace that style, and through that experience, I gathered several insights. Keep scrolling to discover them.

      Tip #1: Not All Pants Are Created Equal

      Accept that not every pair of pants will fit you as they do on the model. For example, while I might covet low-rise boyfriend jeans or ankle-length cigarette pants, the truth is that these styles tend to cling to my body in all the wrong areas. I’ve come to realize that high-waisted styles with a relaxed or wide leg are far more flattering for my figure. When it comes to fashion trends, there’s nothing wrong with sticking to what suits you best.

      Tip #2: Fabric Matters

      If you have a curvy bottom or thicker thighs, count yourself lucky. However, this means your choice of fabric becomes even more crucial. Silk or lightweight linen should be loose and ideally lined. For unlined options, opt for stiffer fabrics, and most importantly, steer clear of too much stretch, as it can make pants appear low-quality.

      Tip #3: Go Big or Go Home

      Bigger is better. Don’t hesitate to choose a larger size. Throughout my adult life, I have rarely bought my actual size in pants. Often, I go up by two sizes because, frankly, my thighs need some breathing space. (I also secretly enjoy when a salesperson comments, "Those are way too big for you.")

      Tip #4: Your Neighborhood Tailor Is Your New Best Friend

      Every pair of pants in my wardrobe has been adjusted at my local dry cleaner. Avoid overpriced tailors and seek someone who truly understands your body shape. Early on, my tailor once asked, "Why not just buy clothes that fit you?" (I have since forgiven him.) The reality is, opting for larger sizes allows for tailoring trousers perfectly to your body. I consistently have the waist taken in and sometimes adjust the legs, along with lengthening the hems, as I prefer my pants to touch the floor. I love pairing my long trousers with heels to give the illusion of height.

      Shop the Best Pants for Curvy Body and Waist Gap:

      - Madewell: The Harlow Wide-Leg Pant

      - The Row: Triny Wool and Mohair-Blend Wide-Leg Pants

      - ZARA: Satin Wide-Leg Belted Pants

      - ZARA: Rustic Wide Leg Pants

      - Everlane: The Linen Way-High Drape Pant

      This article was originally published on an earlier date and has been updated.