Most styles get recycled eventually, so it shouldn't be a surprise to learn that culottes are having another moment in the fashion-y sun.
I can't actually remember wearing any in the 1970s, and I really wasn't planning on wearing a pair now either.
I know - never say never...
My manager and a fellow volunteer at the charity shop put these late 1970s/early 1980s culottes aside for me. And despite being a bit dubious before I tried them, I find I like them.
Culottes (gauchos, divided skirts, whatever we're calling them) have been around for a long time.
Here are some examples from the 1930-40s...
the 1950-60s...
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1970s...
and into the early-mid 1980s.
They adapted well throughout all these decades, then seemed to fall out of favour; who knows why? Fashion's fickle like that.
(I presume the woman on the bike wearing smart tweed culottes has her gas mask in that box.)
I think this St Michael pair are my favourites...
although the drapey green pair are blessed with pockets and a nicely shaped waistband.
Here are some of 2015's incarnations...
and look - mustard. How's that for coincidence?
1970-80s culottes, 1980s shirt, denim jacket, belt and bangles - charity shopped
1980s boots - Second to None
If you google culottes, you will find a lot of articles about how tricky they are to wear, and advising you on how you might possibly do so.
My advice, should you want or need it (and I very much doubt that you do)?
If you like them, just give them a go!
xxx
