Tired of rotating your boring old tights and want something fancier than your regular workout leggings? Stirrup pants are back and better than ever. Originally worn by women while horseback riding in the 1920s, stirrup pants later became fashionable to wear in the ’80s. Back then, stirrup pants were cute but a bit basic. This time around, however, designers have revamped them with a wide variety of styles to choose from.
Unlike leggings, stirrup pants can be dressed up with heels or loafers and become a fashion statement in and of themselves. They come in various materials, such as wool and jersey, making them appropriate for work. You can also play around with different fits, so if you’re not into super-tight pants, there are plenty of looser options. From colorful prints to elegant black solids, stirrup pants are back and will have you raring to get back in the saddle.
Make a statement with bold stirrup pants
If you’re going to try out a new trend, we think it’s best to go big or go home. These colorful stirrup pants with an oversized floral print are definitely eye-catching by themselves, but when combined with matching shoes, it creates a set we can’t get enough of. With a print this bold, opt for solids for the rest of your outfit, such as a simple black handbag and a contrasting fuchsia trench.
Update a power suit with stirrup pants
An elegant pantsuit is a staple everyone should have in their closet, but if you want to take it to the next level, trade in your regular trousers for stirrup pants. Here, Katie Holmes proves that power suits aren’t just for the office, as the added stirrups make for a great evening look. Finally, a pair of hot pink heels adds a playful pop of color.
Stirrups and slingbacks are a good year-round combo
Wearing stirrup pants and want to show them off? Don’t tuck them into bulky boots. Instead, wear them loud and proud with a pair of slingback heels, a classic shoe trend making a comeback. Not only will it elevate your outfit, but the added height will make your legs look miles long. While this makes for a great warm-weather combo, if it’s a bit chilly outside, just throw on an oversized coat to keep you warm and cozy.
We’re mad for this plaid stirrup pants set
Just looking at this outfit gives us a jolt of dopamine. This violet plaid top with matching stirrup pants is adorbs, especially when worn with vivid pink shoes and a cotton candy-colored purse. For a fun take, wear the stirrups over your shoes, but we recommend doing so with tall heels so that you don’t get your bottoms frayed.
High-waisted stirrup pants are très chic
This look proves that stirrup pants are not just for working out. These high-waisted leggings look runway-ready and are perfect for date night or drinks at a trendy bar. Tuck in a loose blouse to show off that figure, and elongate your legs with a pair of stilettos. A simple black clutch is the only accessory you need.
Let’s get nostalgic with denim stirrup pants
The ’80s are back, and we couldn’t be happier! If you’ve missed your stirrup jeans from childhood, you’re in luck. With so many stirrup pants options out there, designers didn’t forget about denim. Instead of a stone wash, choose a pair in a dark color for a more mature look — we want to rewear this trend without looking like we actually went back in time.
Don’t forget to accessorize with cute footwear
Basic black stirrup pants don’t have to be boring. Dress yours up with peekaboo fishnet stockings worn underneath. While stirrup pants are generally worn sockless, this combo is an innovative way to add sexiness to your outfit. Shoes with wraparound buckles add the illusion of even more stirrups. Or, to take this look from day to night, trade in your ballet flats for platforms.
