Wednesday, September 18, 2024

How To Style Anthropologie Denim, From Flare To Wide-Leg Jeans, For Fall

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As a denim lover, fall is my favorite season for fashion. And because there’s no such thing as having too many jeans, I was eager to explore Anthropologie’s fall offering, which is full of designer denim, after having tried and styled its beachy Paige jeans over the summer.

This time around, I’m putting the retailer’s indie-inspired Mother Denim autumnal pieces to the test. The LA-based lifestyle brand creates bottoms, tops, accessories, and more inspired by memories of growing up in California in the ‘70s. Tapping into the sartorial experimentation and whimsy of that era, I styled four pairs of Mother Denim jeans for different occasions, from casual seasonal activities to professional commitments.

In general, wide-leg is my favorite pant silhouette, because I find it suits my hourglass figure. So, I of course had to try a couple of pairs in that shape. However, I also stepped into new territory, trying flares (for the first time), since they’re a Mother signature. While I was very skeptical about wearing the stretchy-yet-snug, curve-hugging jeans, I was quite surprised by how I felt in them in the end.

Read on to see how I’m styling Mother wide-leg and flare jeans for the fall (and beyond), and how you can achieve the looks yourselves.

How To Style Wide-Leg Jeans For Fall Activities

As a 5’3” girlie, I find that petite jeans from most brands are the best option for me. As the stock for Mother’s in-demand products is always changing, though, I tried a mix of the brand’s regular and petite fits. For these slightly-baggy, dramatically-cuffed jeans (a trend I’ve been seeing all over!), I opted for a 32 Petite, which was the perfect length. While there was some gapping at the back of my waist, the five hidden buttons (and one visible button) and rigid denim made me feel held in and secure. The relaxed fit and faded wash is effortlessly cool, and inspired me to style them in a colorful athleisure look for casual fall activities, like pumpkin picking.

To accentuate the cuffed hemline, I opted for a statement fall sneaker. I also worked off of the relaxed fit by pairing the jeans with an oversized puffy windbreaker. While I accessorized with my trusty sunglasses, you could also add one of Mother’s trucker hats. (And, as you’ll see throughout all my looks, I prefer styling jeans with the TikTok-viral “sandwich method,” which means having the bottoms in between a top and pair of shoes that match each other.)

How To Style Wide-Leg Jeans For A Night Out

On the opposite side of the style spectrum, I attempted to make a pair of Mother wide-leg jeans feel like occasionwear. It turns out that the brand’s pitch-black Twister Sneak jeans really work in elevated going-out outfits.

I’m wearing a size 32 Regular here, but know that the petite sizing would’ve been a better length for me (and is luckily back in stock to shop!). To combat the long length, I paired these jeans with metallic platform heels to get an extra height boost. Since metallics aren’t going anywhere anytime soon (especially as we inch closer to the holiday season), I styled the look with a shiny pleated Anthropologie cami I already had in my closet and silver interlock hoop earrings. To complete the look, I added some pearls, a black watch, and a black Anthropologie shoulder bag.

How To Style Flare Jeans For Casual Dates

Now… out of my comfort zone and into flare jeans! Mother does produce a few super flared jeans, but most of the styles are fairly subtle (and don’t give that kitschy ‘70s bell-bottoms look). I opted for the top-rated Hustler Ankle Fray jeans, which I got in a 32 Regular — thankfully, they fit great, thanks to the cropped length. The stretchier denim is super comfortable, and the frayed hems add to the casual, indie feel.

For casual fall dates (with your partner or your besties), style these light-wash jeans with a skin-baring top (this one feels like suede, which is on-trend) and comfortable shoes (I slipped into a pair of trendy slingback ballet flats). And don’t forget to also accessorize with a crossbody bag, sunglasses, everyday jewelry, and a belt. (I picked a thin plaid style.) 

How To Style Flare Jeans For Work

For my next attempt at styling flare jeans, I decided to put together a work-appropriate outfit. While this wash seems to be out of stock at the moment, I believe the darker “Chip On My Shoulder” shade (linked above) is an even better option for the office. I also found that the 32 Petite length and fit is comparable to the cropped Hustler Ankle Fray jeans.

These comfortable and flattering frayed jeans may be my favorite Mother style of the bunch, so I was really excited to style them. From a red-brown blazer and leather work bag to a Brat green high-neck top and suede pointed booties, I picked vintage-inspired fabrics, color palettes, and styles that complimented the denim and felt modern when combined all together. If you also plan on wearing denim to the office this fall, make sure to pair your dark-wash flare jeans with high-quality investment pieces that will elevate your look and have you feeling chic and confident.

Shop all Mother Denim at Anthropologie

Like what you see? How about some more R29 goodness, right here?

Our Favorites From Anthropologie’s Fall Collection

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The 29 Best Midi Skirts To Upgrade Your Fall Wardrobe

Fitting neatly between the bold, flirty mini skirt and the dramatic, romantic maxi skirt is the comfortable yet underrated midi skirt. Not too short, not too long, it's the Goldilocks of skirts: just right. 

The mid-calf length makes a versatile day-to-night wardrobe staple. Semi-casual yet semi-formal, they can easily be dressed down with a cardigan and loafers for work, or dressed up with a blouse and knee-high boots for date night. There’s also a lot of variety in the category, from satin to suede to denim options, from side slit to wrap styles, from monochromatic to printed ones.

There are so many ways to style a midi skirt, depending on the look that you want to achieve — so, we're here to offer you some outfit inspo. If you’re looking for a fall style upgrade, consider ordering a couple of midis to alternate throughout the season for different vibes and occasions.

All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.

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Summer INtro:

Fitting neatly between the bold, flirty mini skirt and the dramatic, romantic maxi skirt is the comfortable, ultra-flattering midi skirt. Not too short, not too long — it's just right. The mid-calf length skirt style is versatile, a great day-to-night option, and has become a wardrobe staple, especially for the summer. The semi-casual semi-formal bottoms can easily be dressed down with a crop top and white sneakers or dressed up with a blouse and strappy heels.

And some trending styles that should be on your radar include satin, cotton, and denim midi skirts, side slit and wrap midi skirts, and printed and floral midi skirts. So if you’re looking for a versatile piece that'll upgrade your style, consider ordering a couple of midi skirts that you can alternate throughout the summer for different vibes and occasions.

Printed & Textured Midi Skirts


If you want a printed midi skirt but aren't into traditional florals, there are other options out there, like trendy animal prints  or plaids. Looking for something a bit more fun? Go for a textured midi instead, whether that be a ruffled, twill, or knit.

Shop Anthropologie

Anthropologie The Chéri Ruffled Tulle Midi Skirt, $, available at Anthropologie

Ann Taylor Button Waist Wrap Fringe Midi Skirt


Shop Ann Taylor

Ann Taylor Button Waist Wrap Fringe Midi Skirt, $, available at Ann Taylor

Jenni Kayne Cheetah Slip Skirt


Shop Jenni Kayne

Jenni Kayne Cheetah Slip Skirt, $, available at Jenni Kayne

Free People In Full Swing Printed Midi Skirt


Shop Free People

Free People In Full Swing Printed Midi Skirt, $, available at Free People

Ramy Brook Delphia Faux Suede Midi Skirt


Shop Ramy Brook

Ramy Brook Delphia Faux Suede Midi Skirt, $, available at Ramy Brook

Abercrombie & Fitch Crinkle Asymmetrical Midi Skirt


Shop Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Crinkle Asymmetrical Midi Skirt, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch

Dôen Fabienne Skirt


Shop Dôen

Dôen Fabienne Skirt, $, available at Dôen

Lisa Says Gah Maeve Midi Skirt


Shop Lisa Says Gah

Lisa Says Gah Maeve Midi Skirt, $, available at Lisa Says Gah

Mango Leopard-Print Gathered Skirt


Shop Mango

Mango Leopard-Print Gathered Skirt, $, available at Mango

Meshki Jolene Contrast Rib Knit Midi Skirt


Shop Meshki

Meshki Jolene Contrast Rib Knit Midi Skirt, $, available at Meshki

Boden Petra Cord Midi Skirt


Shop Boden

Boden Petra Cord Midi Skirt, $, available at Boden

Midi Skirts With Slits


If you want to show a bit more leg than many midi skirts offer, consider going for one with a slit. This flirty detail adds a bit more interest to your look and is perfect for a dramatic, twirling-in-the-night moment.

Shop Free People

Free People Maeve Midi Skirt, $, available at Free People

Lululemon Softstreme High-Rise Midi Skirt


Shop Lululemon

Lululemon Softstreme High-Rise Midi Skirt, $, available at Lululemon

Alice + Olivia Ayla Asymmetric High Slit Midi Skirt


Shop Alice + Olivia

Alice + Olivia Ayla Asymmetric High Slit Midi Skirt, $, available at Alice + Olivia

Abercrombie & Fitch Knotted Midi Skirt


Shop Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Knotted Midi Skirt, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch

Intimately Sweet Talker Half Slip Skirt


Shop Free People

Intimately Sweet Talker Half Slip Skirt, $, available at Free People

Satin Midi Skirts


Satin is perhaps the first fabric you think of when you picture midi skirts. It's a classic combination that has become a favorite for many, perfect for dinners, parties, and even the office. From colorful and pleated options to neutral and refined ones, satin midi skirts are your go-to for when jeans are too casual and a dress feels too formal.

Shop J.Crew

J.Crew Gwyneth Slip Skirt, $, available at J.Crew

Cuyana Silk Pleated Side Skirt


Shop Cuyana

Cuyana Silk Pleated Side Skirt, $, available at Cuyana

Aritzia Ladder Skirt


Shop Aritzia

Babaton Ladder Skirt, $, available at Aritzia

LilySilk Coastline Silk Midi Skirt


Shop LilySilk

LilySilk Coastline Silk Midi Skirt, $, available at LilySilk

Lulus Sleek Proposition Satin Bow Midi Skirt


Shop Lulus

Lulus Sleek Proposition Satin Bow Midi Skirt, $, available at Lulus

Asos Design Satin Bias Midi Skirt


Shop Asos

ASOS DESIGN Satin Bias Midi Skirt, $, available at ASOS

Quince 100% Washable Silk Skirt


Shop Quince

Quince 100% Washable Silk Skirt, $, available at Quince

Leather Midi Skirts


Leather bottoms are a staple for the fall and winter, especially in skirt from adding a bit of refined rock'n’roll to any outfit. Again, a midi-length option works  for the day and  night), and is a bit more breathable than a maxi or pants.

Shop Rag & Bone

rag & bone Rayne Faux Leather Skirt, $, available at rag & bone

Eloquii Wrap Front Faux Leather Midi Skirt


Shop Eloquii

Eloquii Wrap Front Faux Leather Midi Skirt, $, available at Eloquii

Sézane Magalia Skirt


Shop Sézane

Sézane Magalia Skirt, $, available at Sézane

Veronica Beard Louise Vegan Leather Skirt


Shop Veronica Beard

Veronica Beard Louise Vegan Leather Skirt, $, available at Veronica Beard

Reformation Veda Julia Leather Skirt


Shop Reformation

Reformation Veda Julia Leather Skirt, $, available at Reformation

City Chic Emerson Skirt


Shop City Chic

City Chic Emerson Skirt, $, available at City Chic

Zara Cut Out Knit Skirt

(slit skirt)
Shop Zara

Zara Cut Out Knit Skirt, $, available at Zara

Halogen Double Slit Pleated Midi Skirt

(slit skirt)

Shop Nordstrom

Halogen Double Slit Pleated Midi Skirt, $, available at Nordstrom

Denim Midi Skirts


Denim midi skirts are an offset of the wildly popular and nostalgic denim maxi skirt comeback. Again, a midi-length option is perfect for the day (and situationally the night) and is a bit more wearable than a maxi style. Each of these denim midi skirts also feature front slits for walking ease and some much-appreciated breeze.

Shop Free People

We The Free Wild Roses Midi Skirt, $, available at Free People

Abercrombie & Fitch Denim Midi Skirt

(denim)
Shop Abercrombie & Fitch

Abercrombie & Fitch Denim Midi Skirt, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch

Madewell Denim Maxi Skirt in Merrimon Wash

(denim)
Shop Madewell

Madewell Denim Maxi Skirt in Merrimon Wash, $, available at Madewell

Mango Denim Midi-Skirt

(denim)
Shop Mango

Mango Denim Midi-Skirt, $, available at Mango

Gap Factory Denim Midi Pencil Skirt with Washwell

(denim)
Shop Gap Factory

Gap Factory Denim Midi Pencil Skirt with Washwell, $, available at Gap Factory

Anthropologie Satin Pleated Midi Skirt

(SATIN)
Shop Anthropologie

Anthropologie Satin Pleated Midi Skirt, $, available at Anthropologie

Floral Midi Skirts


Florals? For summer? Classic and chic! Whether you prefer a large-scale print or a more muted, abstract one, a floral skirt is a dainty, feminine summer staple. Pair your patterned skirt with a simple blouse or crop top for a perfect outfit combination every time.

Shop City Chic

City Chic Paige Print Skirt, $, available at City Chic

Lulus Springtime Sensation Pleated Satin Midi Skirt

(Satin)
Shop Lulus

Lulus Springtime Sensation Pleated Satin Midi Skirt, $, available at Lulus

Reformation Layla Skirt

(floral)
Shop Reformation

Reformation Layla Skirt, $, available at Reformation

BP. Floral Print Side Slit Midi Skirt

(floral)
Shop Nordstrom

BP. Floral Print Side Slit Midi Skirt, $, available at Nordstrom

Cider High Waist Mesh Floral Midi Skirt

(floral)
Shop Cider

Cider High Waist Mesh Floral Midi Skirt, $, available at Cider

Wrap Midi Skirts


Similar to midi skirts with slits, wrap midi skirts can show some leg too. There are plenty of wrap styles out there, whether you want a fully adjustable skirt or a faux wrap one that solely gives the flattering cut of a sarong.

Shop Asos

Simply Be Linen Wrap Midi Skirt, $, available at ASOS

Love, Bonito Atasha Front Wrap Skirt

(wrap)
Shop Love, Bonito

Love Bonito Atasha Front Wrap Skirt, $, available at Love Bonito

Everlane The Linen Wrap Skirt

(wrap)
Shop Everlane

Everlane The Linen Wrap Skirt, $, available at Everlane

Vero Moda Wrap Front Midi Skirt

(wrap)
Shop Asos

Vero Moda Wrap Front Midi Skirt, $, available at ASOS

Cotton Midi Skirts


Stay cool (style-wise and weather-wise) in a cotton-blend skirt this summer. This broad category of midi skirts encompasses a bunch of styles from A-line and column silhouettes to slits, tiers, and cargo skirt details. Take your pick and then take on the day in comfort.

Shop Banana Republic

Banana Republic Linen-Blend Midi Skirt, $, available at Banana Republic

The Somerset Collection Cotton Maxi Skirt

(cotton)
Shop Anthropologie

The Somerset Collection The Somerset Cotton Maxi Skirt, $, available at Anthropologie

American Eagle Snappy Convertible Maxi Skirt

(cotton)
Shop American Eagle

American Eagle Snappy Convertible Maxi Skirt, $, available at American Eagle

Eloquii Lace Up Waist Midi Skirt

(cotton)
Shop Eloquii

Eloquii Lace Up Waist Midi Skirt, $, available at Eloquii

Free-est Essential Convertible Skirt

(cotton)
Shop Free People

free-est Essential Convertible Skirt, $, available at Free People

Printed & Textured Midi Skirts

(for summer)
If you want a printed midi skirt but aren't into traditional florals, there are other summer-ready options out there like funky screen prints or checkered fabric. And if you're looking for something a bit more subtle, go for a textured midi skirt instead, whether that be lace, eyelet, or ruffles.

Shop Urban Outfitters

Motel Lassie Printed Midi Skirt, $, available at Urban Outfitters

Line & Dot Pixie Eyelet Skirt

(print and textured)
Shop Revolve

Line & Dot Pixie Eyelet Skirt, $, available at Revolve

Farm Rio Lime Sweet Jungle Lenzing Ecovero Skirt

(print and textured)
Shop Farm Rio


Farm Rio Lime Sweet Jungle Lenzing Ecovero Skirt, $, available at Farm Rio

Princess Polly Ella-Rae Midi Skirt

(print and textured)
Shop Princess Polly

Princess Polly Ella-Rae Midi Skirt, $, available at Princess Polly

Old Navy Tiered Gingham Maxi Skirt

(print and textured)
Shop Old Navy

Old Navy Tiered Gingham Maxi Skirt, $, available at Old Navy

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