What do paper bags have to do with fashion? The paper bag waist refers to pants, skirts and shorts that are tied with a ribbon or drawstring to form a paper bag ruffle at the waist.
This probably sounds odd and unattractive but worn correctly it looks rather chic.
The pants, which are usually unisex, were part of local designer Jenevieve Lyons SS/17 collection that she presented in SA Menswear Week last year, which offers a relaxed and comfortable alternative to a more structured and fitted trousers or jeans.
Style: SA designer Jenevieve Lyons’ paper bag pants in SS/17. (Pic: SDR Photo)
You might remember in 2015, model Chrissy Teigen wore a black baggy paper bag trousers with a bottle green sexy lace top which comfortably hid her tiny baby bump.
Since then they have shown up on the international and local catwalks during the 2016 fashion weeks.
Stella McCartney featured the paper bag pants in her 2017 Spring ready-to-wear collection and it has since been spotted on celebs and die-hard fashion enthusiasts in variety of ways.
Paper bag pants seen at Stella McCartney 2017 Spring Ready-to-wear collection (Pic: Instagram)
Kim Kardashian, who’s known for her fashion forward style, showed off her curves in a camo print pants and tight white crop top.
Style icon and actress Sienna Miller was seen wearing dirty pink paper bag pants with a simple fitted top and platform sandals.
Sisters Kylie and Kendall Jenner’s clothing collection, Kendall+Kylie, features these baggy pants in a more relaxed style.
This trend draws attention to the waist (Pic: Robyn Walker)
The most appealing feature about these pants or skirt is how it emphasises your waist in a far more comfortable way than high-waisted jeans or pants.
The paper bag trend creates the illusion of a tiny waist and the much desired hourglass figure.
Also the fabric is draped loosely around the waist and hip area which means it doesn’t hug the body parts which many women tend to be a bit uncomfortable showing off. As in the case with Teigen, it can hide a baby bump.
Another bonus point for these comfortable trousers is they have an androgynous look.
Which means you can either wear them soft and feminine or fierce.
The paper bag waist trend is unavoidable (Pic: Instagram)
They are great for a casual day out or dressed up for the office or for evenings. So no matter what your body shape, style preference or occasion, this trend can work for anyone. Its versatility is what makes for a great clothing item.
The paper bag style will not replace your wardrobe staple like skinny jeans or a classic tailored trousers, but it will make for a trendy addition.