How to style Marlene, balloon and harem trousers in plus sizes
Wide trousers are comfortable, give plenty of freedom of movement and can be worn all year round. Even so, many women wonder which top and which shoes go with them so that the outfit looks harmonious. In this guide we introduce three wide trouser shapes: Marlene trousers, balloon trousers and harem trousers. You will learn how they differ, which top lengths go with them and how to find the right shoes.
Three wide trousers at a glance
- Marlene trousers: cut wide and straight from the hip, the leg falls loosely to the ankle. They look elegant and suit everyday life as well as the office.
- Balloon trousers: wide at the thigh, narrower towards the hem. The hem closes the shape at the bottom.
- Harem trousers: with a low-set crotch and plenty of fabric in the upper part. They are the most relaxed of the three shapes.
What all three have in common is that they already bring volume at the top. That is why a simple basic rule applies to the top: if there is a lot of fabric below, it can be a little simpler and shorter above.
How to style Marlene trousers
Marlene trousers are all about their flowing drape. The Marlene trousers in black with a subtle check have an elasticated waist and are around 94 cm long. They are made of a blend of polyester, cotton and polyamide. A light alternative is the Marlene trousers in white, made of 97 % cotton and 3 % elastane and around 96 cm long.
Which top goes with Marlene trousers?
A top that ends around hip level looks most harmonious, because the drape of the trousers stays visible. The black jersey blouse with taffeta collar is around 78 cm long, cut in an A-line and has patch pockets. The taffeta collar adds an elegant touch that goes well with the check of the black Marlene trousers. If you prefer to wear a tunic, you will find advice on the right length in our guide How to style a tunic.
Which shoes go with Marlene trousers?
Because the wide leg reaches the ankle, the trousers should not drag on the floor. Shoes with a small block heel or a slightly higher sole let the fabric fall freely. Flat shoes also work if the length is right. To check, compare the length given on the product page with a pair of trousers that fits you well.
How to style balloon trousers
Balloon trousers are loose at the top and narrower towards the hem. The black balloon trousers made of soft viscose have an elastic waistband and are around 100 cm long. Similar in shape are the viscose trousers with stretch waistband: they are cut loosely at the thigh and have a close-fitting elastic finish at the hem. At around 95 cm they are slightly shorter.
Which top goes with balloon trousers?
Because balloon trousers have width at the hips and thighs, a shorter, straight top looks most balanced. The short black jersey tunic with asymmetric hem is around 72 cm long and cut in an H-line. It has long sleeves with cuffs. The angled hem loosens up the shape without adding extra fabric.
Which shoes go with balloon trousers?
Since the hem of balloon trousers sits close to the leg, the shoes remain clearly visible. Flat styles such as ballet flats, loafers or simple trainers go well with the relaxed shape. If you prefer a more elegant look, choose a slim shoe with a small heel.
How to wear harem trousers smartly
Harem trousers are seen as leisurewear, but they can also be worn smartly. The black and white striped harem trousers in an Afghani cut have a low-set crotch and an elastic waistband. They are made of 95 % viscose and 5 % elastane.
To make them look polished, a plain, calm top helps. With striped trousers the rule is: pattern below, plain on top. The airy white cotton tunic is around 80 cm long, cut in an A-line and made of 100 % cotton. Its white picks up the colour of the stripes. Simple shoes in black or white and a necklace or scarf complete the outfit.
Top lengths at a glance
The centimetre values are guidelines, because where a top ends also depends on your height.
- Hip length (about 70 to 80 cm): goes with all three trousers, because the shape of the trousers stays visible.
- To the thigh (about 85 to 95 cm): better with Marlene trousers, if the top is slim or flowing.
- Very long (over 100 cm): with wide trousers, a lot of fabric builds up quickly. Slim trousers or leggings are usually the better choice here.
You will find more styles in our trouser collection and in our blouse collection.
Three outfits to recreate
- For the office: black Marlene trousers with check, jersey blouse with taffeta collar and shoes with a small block heel.
- Relaxed for everyday: black balloon trousers, short jersey tunic with asymmetric hem and loafers.
- Relaxed yet polished: striped harem trousers, white cotton tunic and simple black ballet flats.
Which size fits?
All the trousers shown here have an elastic or stretch waistband. Size 1 is intended for German dress sizes 44 to 52 (hip circumference 120 to 146 cm), size 2 for 54 to 60 (hip circumference 146 to 160 cm). Not every style is available in both sizes. You can see which sizes are available on the respective product page. You will find all measurements in our size chart.
Frequently asked questions about wide trousers
How do I style Marlene trousers?
Ideally with a top that ends around hip level, for example a blouse or a short tunic. Shoes with a small heel or flat shoes go well with them, as long as the trousers do not drag on the floor.
Which shoes go with balloon trousers?
Flat, slim shoes such as ballet flats, loafers or simple trainers. Since the hem sits close to the leg, the shoes are clearly visible and finish the outfit at the bottom.
How do you wear harem trousers smartly?
With a plain, calm top and simple shoes. If the trousers are patterned, the top should pick up a colour from the pattern.
How long should a top be with wide trousers?
Hip-length tops go with all wide trousers. Longer tunics are better suited to Marlene trousers. Very long tops look more balanced with slim trousers.
