Give Your Jeans a Fall Break

September 1, 2026 Give Your Jeans a Fall Break

When fall dressing starts calling for more than your usual jeans, it’s time to introduce an unexpected cropped wide-leg pant: culottes. They have just enough volume to make an outfit interesting, while their shorter length puts fall tops and footwear front and center. Here are a few ways to style them.

Add a Chunky Knit

Start with a fall favorite: the oversized sweater. A chunky knit creates a relaxed contrast with the structured shape of the pants. Try a partial tuck to define the waist, then finish with socks and loafers or ballet flats. For color, we’re looking at chocolate brown, burgundy, charcoal, cream, and deep olive.

Bring Out the Boots

The cropped hemline practically begs for a great pair of boots. Try sleek ankle boots for a classic look, or play with proportions by adding a taller pair that disappears beneath the hem. A slouchy boot is especially fun this fall, giving the whole outfit a little more drama.

Add a Leather Jacket

For a look that feels made for a crisp fall day, pair your pants with a fitted tee or lightweight sweater and throw a leather jacket on top. Black is always a favorite, but worn-in brown leather looks great with denim, plaid, gray, and other autumn shades.

Try a Monochrome Look

Pick one color family and run with it. Black pants with a black sweater and shoes create a sleek silhouette, while shades of camel, cream, or gray bring a softer take. Don’t be afraid to combine textures like wool, leather, suede, and cotton.

Make Them Your Own

The best thing about culottes is how many different directions they can go. Preppy with loafers and a cardigan? Yes. Sporty with sneakers and a bomber jacket? Absolutely. A little ’80s with a funnel neck and boots? We’re in.