Culotte Pants Are Everywhere. Here’s How to Style Them (Plus 15 Pairs We’re Coveting)

• Why We Love It: relaxed fit, textured fabric, breezy cotton
• Material: cotton
• Size Range: 2 to 22

Associate SEO editor Marissa Wu has a similar pair of (now sold-out) Boden culottes in this versatile navy color. Made from 100 percent cotton and machine washable, the pants can be dressed up or down. Other appreciated features include pockets, an elastic waistband and a mid-calf length. The pants will pair easily with ballet flats, heels and sneakers alike.

• Why We Love It: flattering fit, stretchy, functional pockets, inclusive sizing
• Material: twill
• Size Range: XS to 3X

“These stretch twill culotte pants by Spanx are wide-legged, which can sometimes make my short legs look stubby, but these ward that off with the shaping core fit—the midsection holds you in and smooths you out, which is Spanx’s wheelhouse,” says PureWow senior editor Dana Dickey. “The cotton fabric washes so well, and the buttoned back pockets are so cute.” Made from buttery soft twill, this pair comes with functional pockets and button details. None will be the wiser that these basically feel like leggings.

• Why We Love It: incorporates recycled cotton, functional pockets, breathable
• Material: cotton
• Size Range: 0 to 30

Yep, culotte pants are so popular that even the ubiquitous Target carries them. These breathable, high-rise cargo pants are a favorite of commerce editor Liv Dubyak. “I love the utility vibe of these culotte-style pants. They're so comfy and breezy for warmer days, too. They're flattering on my wider hips and I can honestly pair them with anything.” The wide-leg cut is reminiscent of the culotte design and hits at the upper ankle, and they come in two colors: cream and classic green.   

• Why We Love It: good for petites, machine washable, lightweight
• Material: organic linen
• Size Range: PP to 3X

Like the idea of culottes but can’t quite commit to the voluminous silhouette? This pair might help you ease into it. Though more of a straight-leg design, the cut is still fairly wide and roomy. PureWow editor-in-chief Jillian Quint appreciates the chic-but-casual look and the fact that the pants work well on her petite, 5’1” frame. The trousers come in five colors and feature an elastic, pleated waistband that adds texture.

• Why We Love It: super-high waist, classic cut, darts, inclusive sizing
• Material: cotton, spandex
• Size Range: 0 to 20, also petite and tall

Banana Republic is one of Schuppler’s picks for snagging a pair of culottes. This cotton pair has darts that give it a structured, more formal look. Loop a belt through the hooks for an office-ready ensemble. Alternately, dress it down with a plain white tee. These culottes are machine washable and come in petite, regular and tall sizing.  

• Why We Love It: multiple colors, breathable linen, pleating
• Material: linen, cotton
• Size Range: XXS to XXL

Consider these your spring and summer office pants. Made of breezy linen with a cotton lining, these pants are the ideal mix of comfort and class. We love the pockets, pleated detailing and elastic waist that won’t constrict.

• Why We Love It: stretchy, casual-cool vibe, drawstring waist
• Material: viscose, nylon
• Size Range: XS to XL

The long weekend called, and it said to bring these pants. Soft and stretchy, with a woke-up-like-this look, this pair is great for a long car ride but doubles as something you’d wear to lunch. “I’m in love with these pants. Very delicate, feel soft,” writes one Nordstrom reviewer. The brand notes that the culottes run large, so try ordering a size down for optimal fit.

• Why We Love It: multiple colors, stretchy fabric, traveler’s crease adds sophisticated touch
• Material: polyester, viscose, elastane
• Size Range: 00 to 24

These pants might look crisp, but they’re actually stretchy. Still, none would be the wiser, with the sharp traveler’s crease running down the legs. It’s a pair of culottes that will keep you looking smart at the office and sophisticated at the wine bar. “I love the color and weight of these pants,” writes a J.Crew reviewer. “I highly recommend, the color is gorgeous, and they look great.” The pants come in four colors, including splashy persimmon. Do note that they are dry-clean only.

• Why We Love It: plenty of pockets, large hem, high-waist, darts
• Material: cotton, lyocell
• Size Range: 23 to 34, plus petite

From running errands and weekend brunch to casual Friday, these culottes are a relaxed and stylish pick, earning rave reviews. “I LOVE THESE JEANS! They fit true to size and are so cute and comfy. I’m a teacher, and these will be great for casual or even non-casual jean days,” writes an Anthropologie reviewer. The pants are machine washable and are made of a blend of cotton and lyocell, a more eco-friendly fabric. Darts at the waist provide structure and there are four pockets. Dress them up a little with a pair of flats or heels and you could get away with a fun work outfit.

• Why We Love It: fun animal print, stretchy, gathered waist
• Material: viscose, elastane
• Size Range: 0 to 14

A vibrant animal print gives the otherwise traditional culotte pant a street-style flair. It’s still versatile, though. One buyer said they would recommend these as a wardrobe staple item, and we can totally see why. The gathered, elastic waist promises all-day comfort. Pair it with your favorite T-shirt or crop top and dress it up or down with high tops or high heels.

• Why We Love It: warm cream color, shimmery, hits just below the knee for a shorter crop
• Material: acetate
• Size Range: 0 to 12

These shimmery culotte pants are a cut above the rest—literally: They hit just below the knee. The traveler’s creases give it a crisp look, and we love the functional side pockets. Per the brand, the trousers are not stretchy but run a little large, so order a size down if you’re in-between.

• Why We Love It: versatile, pockets, Fair Trade certified
• Material: linen
• Size Range: XS to XL

Say hello to hot summer weather with these Japanese-style culottes. They’re made from European flax linen that’ll keep you cool even on sweltering days. An elastic waistband promises comfortable all-day wear, and there are pockets. We also love that the brand has sustainability and ethical commitments, including being Fair Trade certified.

• Why We Love It: crepe fabric, pockets, ruffle trim, alternative take on culotte style
• Material: polyester
• Size Range: XXS to XL

Petite? This culotte romper is for you. Multiple reviewers praised it as working well even on their shorter statures. One Revolve reviewer writes, “OBSESSED with this jumpsuit. Recommend for all you short girls. The length of this is just to my ankles and so refreshing not to have to get something hemmed for once.” The crepe fabric and ruffled detailing lend an elegant air, and you can wear this stunner to brunch or a dinner party, and every social event in between.

• Why We Love It: contrasting topstitching, five pocket style, good for petites, machine washable 
• Material: cotton, elastane
• Size Range: 23 to 33

The brand that perhaps best defines feminine, flirty, fun and whimsy offers up a sharp pair of culotte jeans, and they’re a hit with buyers. “These are now my favorite jeans,” shares a Kate Spade reviewer. “I am so tempted to buy a second pair due to how much I reach for these! They fit a little snug but become more comfortable as you wear them. It’s the perfect jean to dress up or down, even as a shorty! I get compliments every time I wear them.” The contrasting topstitching is a thoughtful detail that adds visual interest while the creased legs keep the pants looking sharp. Throw on your favorite tee or dress it up with a blouse for a night out.  

• Why We Love It: made from recycled materials, pleated, tied waist, pockets, machine washable
• Material: wool, elastane
• Size Range: 0 to 14  

Club Monaco’s culotte pants come in two colors—black and “fog,” the latter best described as a misty seafoam green. The cropped trousers end mid-shin, and a self-tied waist allows you to add a dainty bow as the finishing touch. With front pleats that add crispness and structure, plus four (functional!) pockets, these are a must-have dressy-casual wardrobe staple.