wideleg

Wideleg refers to a silhouette of trousers (pants) characterized by a loose, straight cut from the hip to the hem, creating a wide leg opening. The term is often hyphenated as wide-leg; in some contexts it is written as wideleg. The cut contrasts with slim or straight-leg styles, and with flared or bootcut designs, offering more room through the thigh and calf without a pronounced flare at the knee. Variants include palazzo pants, which are usually floor-length and made from drapey fabrics; culottes, which are wide through the leg but cropped to a shorter length; and ordinary wide-leg trousers that are tailored and worn as everyday or professional wear.

Materials range from wool and wool blends for workwear to cotton, linen, and denim for casual wear. The silhouette can read formal when tailored in wool or crepe, or relaxed when in linen or jersey; seasonality also influences fabric choice.

Historically, wide-leg silhouettes appeared in early 20th-century fashion and gained renewed popularity in the 1960s and 1970s, with Palazzo style; they have remained in various forms in contemporary fashion, including streetwear and office attire.

Styling: to maintain balance, pair wide-leg pants with a fitted or tucked-in top, and choose footwear that suits the length and fabric—heels or platforms can elongate the leg; mid or high-rise waists help create an elongated silhouette. For cropped tops or jackets, ensure the proportions keep the outfit from looking heavy at the top.

Care: drape and creasing depend on fabric; linen and cotton require proper washing; wool needs dry-clean or delicate care.