Culottes for Women

What are culottes?

Culottes for women are wide trousers with straight legs that end at the calf or ankle. Thanks to their fullness, they swing almost like a skirt as you walk and let air circulate around your legs on warm days. At Tom Tailor, culottes sit high on the waist, and most have a comfortable elasticated waistband. What really sets the styles apart is the length:

• Cropped culottes: end at the calf and feel pleasantly light on hot days.
• 7/8 culottes: stop just above the ankle and reveal just enough leg to show off your sandals.
• Ankle-length culottes: have a longer, more understated line and look elegant in the office too.

If you prefer the wide cut in denim, take a look at our wide-leg jeans, which include some culotte-style designs. For an overview of every fit, browse our full range of trousers.

What fabric should culottes be made of?

Culottes need a fabric with a soft drape so that the fullness moves with every step. Viscose does exactly that: it feels cool against the skin and flows loosely around the legs. With a crêpe finish, it has a subtle grainy texture and looks more refined. Cotton is firmer and more hard-wearing, especially in a twill weave, which makes it practical for weekends and days out. Most Tom Tailor styles also contain a touch of stretch for extra freedom of movement. On really hot days, linen trousers are a light alternative.

Which culotte length suits me?

The right length depends less on your figure than on where the hem falls and which shoes you pair them with. As a rule of thumb, a hem that ends at the narrowest part of the calf elongates your silhouette more than one that stops at the widest part. Cropped styles are great with a small heel or a platform, which makes your legs look longer. Ankle-length culottes are less fussy and work with flats too. The high rise draws attention to your waist, especially if you tuck your top in.

How should I style culottes?

Culottes are easiest to style with a slim-fitting or cropped top, which balances out the width of the leg. In summer, a tucked-in T-shirt does the job, while a blouse top adds a more feminine touch. For the office, add a blazer for a more polished look, ideally a fitted or cropped style. On your feet, flat sandals look relaxed, while trainers add a sporty edge.