Flare yoga pants are having a major moment right now. You may remember them from the early 2000s when they were a staple in every yoga class and school hallway. Well, everything comes back in style eventually and the cool flared silhouette is making its comeback!
These yoga pants have an extra wide, bootcut leg that creates a chic slimming effect. Unlike their tight fitting cousin, the skinny yoga pant, flares have a more relaxed vibe while still hugging your shape. They effortlessly straddle the line between dressy and casual.
You’re likely eager to scoop up a pair and work them into your wardrobe rotation. But styling flare yoga pants can feel a bit intimidating. How do you wear them without looking dated? What shoes pair best? How do you dress them up or down? Don’t worry, I’ve got you covered!
Keep reading for the ultimate guide to making flare yoga pants work for any occasion, along with shoppable outfit ideas to recreate the looks. Legging lovers, welcome to your newest obsession!
Find Your Perfect Pair
Check Out These Top-Rated Flare Yoga Pant Picks
When attempting any new style, it’s smart to invest in one quality, well-fitting pair before going all out. Flare yoga pants have become quite trendy recently, with lots of brands releasing their own take on the silhouette.
I suggest starting with a popular style from a brand you already love for working out. This ensures they’ll have that perfect blend of comfort and durability. Once you style your first pair, I bet you won’t want to take them off!
Some best selling flared yoga pants include:
Lululemon Groove Pants
Lululemon barely needs an introduction at this point. Their yoga pants are universally adored for good reason. The fabric is so buttery soft and lightweight with just the right amount of stretch.
The Groove Flare Pant has a super high-waisted fit designed specifically for yoga and working out. But the cut is flattering enough to wear all day long. Choose between two inseam lengths – regular or tall.
Athleta Elation Pants
Athleta makes the magic pants that first won me over to the flared silhouette. Their Elation fabric features lightweight compression material that is totally squat-proof.
The Elation Flare Pant comes in regular, tall, and petite sizes so you can nail the perfect ankle-grazing length. I also love the split hem version which looks great with any shoe.
Aerie Crossover Flare Leggings
For a more budget-friendly flared legging, Aerie ticks all the boxes. The Crossover Flare Leggings have the trendy high-waisted crossover waistband and come in regular or long lengths.
The fabric includes a brushed interior for extra softness. And at under $30 a pop, you can grab multiples to mix and match.
Nail Down Your Flare Yoga Pant Styling Strategy
Experiment With Different Tops
Flare yoga pants are extremely versatile. With the right styling, they work for everything from running errands to post-yoga brunch. The key is choosing a top with the right proportions.
A cropped top emphasizes the pants’ slimming effect while creating a defined waistline. For more coverage, a boxy sweatshirt keeps things laidback. Or grab attention up top with a flowy blouse.
Most tops pair well with flares when you balance the volume. Avoid anything too bulky on bottom to prevent looking disproportionate.
When trying a new flare silhouette, test out what you already own. See what works with your current wardrobe before buying anything new.
Cropped Tanks and Tees Show Some Skin
A cropped tank or tee looks casually cool with flare yoga pants. Showing just a sliver of skin keeps the vibe sporty and playful.
To nail the proportions, choose a slightly oversized crop top that hits right at your natural waistline. This creates a streamlined shape that’s almost as flattering as leggings.
Go for soft fabrics like jersey knit cotton, modal, or lightweight thermal knits. Structured fabrics tend to look mismatched with the pants’ fluidity.
Boxy Crewnecks Add Coziness
When you want more coverage up top, pick a roomy crewneck sweatshirt. The boxy shape balances out the flare legs for harmony.
Cotton, poly-fleece, and terry cloth all work nicely. Seek out soft, broken-in fabrics so the textures complement each other.
A cropped length hits at the waist to maintain that elongated look. But a regular sweatshirt won’t overwhelm your frame either.
Flowy Blouses Make It Dressy
Who says you can’t dress up yoga pants? A flowy blouse or wrap top instantly elevates flares for work or a night out.
Silky fabrics like satin and crepe move beautifully and catch the light. Splashy prints or bold colors also ramp up the drama.
Look for tops with fluttery elbow-length sleeves or cold shoulder cutouts. Anything too slim or tailored appears off-kilter.
Wrap Up With Cozy Layers
When temps drop, finish off your flare yoga pants with cozy coats and jackets. This allows you to wear them year-round for maximum cost per wear value.
Light layers like denim jackets and blazers complement the sporty nature of yoga pants. And they balance the volume without hiding the flared shape.
For frigid weather, turn to oversized styles like teddy coats and puffers. The cocoon silhouette plays well with the flares versus something more narrow.
If you’ll be outside for long periods, water-resistant nylon jackets block wind and rain. Bonus points for a hood in case snow starts falling!
Denim Jackets Add Edge
A denim jacket makes an effortless topper for flare yoga pants while providing warmth. It’s an unexpected combo that works perfectly.
Go for a medium or dark wash in classic blue for a rugged vibe. Black denim also feels modern and pairs with everything.
Look for a loose, oversized fit that skims your shape without hugging. This prevents bumping up against the flared legs.
Blazers Pull Together Polished Looks
Who said yoga pants aren’t appropriate for the office? Add a smart blazer on top to instantly look professional.
Focus on soft materials like jersey knit or lightly stretched wool blends. Anything too stiff moves differently than the pants.
An open front style creates a streamlined shape for a slimming effect. But also consider an oversized boyfriend blazer for off-duty vibes.
Puffers Take On Winter Weather
When dealing with freezing temps, nothing beats an oversized puffer coat. The exaggerated volume balances the flare legs for a stylish silhouette.
Stick to puffer coats hitting around hip-length. Cropped styles can shorten your frame while long ones hide the flares altogether.
For maximum coziness, look for padding made from down feather filling or PrimaLoft synthetic insulation. And don’t forget mittens!
Choose Shoes That Complement The Flares
Probably the most common question about styling flare yoga pants is what type of shoes work best. Luckily, the flared leg opening plays nicely with almost any shoe in your closet!
Sneakers keep it sporty and casual for everyday wear. Slides and slippers transform the look for lounging around the house. Loafers and oxfords make it feel polished. And boots dress them up for a night out. See, so versatile!
When deciding what shoes to pair, consider if you want to showcase the flare legs or not. Tucking them into boots hides the shape while flats put the spotlight directly on them. Either way, flares give you options other leggings can’t.
Sneakers For All-Day Play
You simply can’t go wrong by sporting flare yoga pants with classic white sneakers. It screams laidback sporty vibes perfect for running errands or meeting friends.
The flared hem creates visual interest when paired with low top shoes. Let the pants pool around your ankles for a relaxed, intentional look.
Beyond classic white, you’ve got options. Black sneakers feel edgy and modern while colorful pairs make a cheerful statement.
Slippers Upgrade Loungewear
Who doesn’t love the ease of slipping on a comfy pair of slide slippers when relaxing at home? The plush texture makes a luxe impact combined with yoga pants.
Shearling and faux fur styles look especially decadent when contrasted with athletic gear. Pop one out from the flared hem when stepping outside too.
To really indulge, go for a fuzzy slipper with a slight platform sole. This prevents the hem from dragging under your feet across the floor. Ah, pure comfort!
Loafers & Oxfords Get Dapper
Somehow loafers and oxfords seem made for flare legs. The menswear-inspired shoes provide a certain polished playfulness to dressed-down pants.
Loafers tend to be more relaxed with supple leather construction. Oxfords feature more structure from their signature closed lacing. Both make excellent partners.
The best part is how loafers and oxfords effortlessly straddle the line between casual weekends and workplace attire. Now your flares become infinitely more usable.
Boots Make A Bold Statement
Without question, boots inspire the most dramatic looks paired with flare yoga pants. They simply command attention when worn together.
Over-the-knee styles turn heads by showcasing almost the entire leg while streamlining your shape. Chelsea boots give mod vibes at the ankle. Western boots go rugged.
When wearing knee high or taller boots, stick to straight cuts that don’t fight with the flared shape. Anything too fitted squeezes rather than complements.
For maximum flair, go for patent leather or metallics. The high-shine finish plays beautifully against a matte yoga pant fabric. Suddenly you look dressed for a big night out!
Take Your Outfit Up A Notch
Pile On The Accessories
Once you’ve got the basics of your flare yoga pants outfit pulled together, don’t forget the accessories! This is what takes you from just adequately dressed to fully pulled-together fashionista.
Jewelry instantly polishes any look. So pile it on with layered necklaces, hoops earrings, and an armful of bracelets or bangles.
Glasses also make a strong style statement. Go for an on-trend cat eye shape or modern angular frames.
Top it off with a bag that adds some color while holding your daily essentials securely. Consider one that crosses your body for hands-free wearability while running errands.
Craft Outfits For Different Occasions
Flare yoga pants transition seamlessly from casual days to dressier nights out. You likely already own suitable tops and shoes hiding in your closet too.
Use these outfit formulas as a starting point when an event pops up on your calendar. Simply sub out pieces you already own that are similar. Before you know it, you’ve got the perfect look!
Jetsetter Travel Uniform
Flare Yoga Pants + Cotton Hoodie + White Sneakers + Crossbody Bag
When hopping off a long flight, comfort trumps over style but you can have both. Flare yoga pants move easily and hold up to packing. Add layers like a hoodie for the plane that shed once you land in paradise.
Bottomless Brunch With The Girls
Flare Yoga Pants + Silky Cami + Denim Jacket + Loafers + Woven Handbag
For those lingering weekend brunches with mimosas and eggs benny, you want an outfit that transitions smoothly to daytime wine tours or farmers markets. A silky cami feels special topped with a denim jacket while loafers add polish. Stuff the essentials in a woven bag and go!
Power Lunch Meeting
Flare Yoga Pants + Button Down Blouse + Blazer + Ballet Flats + Tote
You likely feel hesitant to wear yoga pants to a professional work meeting. But tailored pieces up top instantly pull the look together. A crisp button down, smart blazer, and classic flats means all eyes stay focused on your genius ideas.
Mall Haul With Friends
Flare Yoga Pants + Graphic Sweatshirt + Baseball Cap + White Sneakers
For marathon shopping sessions trying on the latest trends, flare yoga pants allow room for that extra pretzel from the food court. A graphic sweatshirt and sneakers easily slip on and off so you can snag that must-have pair of heels carefree!
Can Flare Yoga Pants Be Comfortable for Doing Yoga Poses with Three People?
Yes, flare yoga pants can be comfortable for doing yoga poses for trio. The extra room around the legs allows for easier movement during partner poses. They provide a stylish, comfortable option for practicing yoga with three people, giving you freedom of movement and flexibility.
Master Key Styling Techniques
Beyond simply choosing flattering pieces, implementing some key fashion formulas makes getting dressed almost effortless. Use these techniques for flawlessly styled flare yoga pants every time.
Balance Layers Artfully
Proper layering prevents looking bulky and disproportionate. When styling flares, apply the principles of color, texture, and volume.
Combine lighter hues on bottom with deeper shades up top since dark recedes. Play with glossy and matte textures so they don’t compete for attention. And balance fuller shapes against more fitted silhouettes.
Following this basic formula allows you to creatively mix and match while maintaining balance and polish.
Mix Up Textures For Interest
Too many smooth, lightweight fabrics tend to fall flat visually. But overly chunky textures overwhelm and consume space.
When styling flare yoga pants, identify one smoother element paired with something textural. For example, a silky cami with a knit cardigan or fleece sweatshirt with crepe trousers.
Contrasting textures adds depth and dimension to any outfit. It brings separate pieces together into a single harmonious vision with flair.
Get Proportions Just Right
Fit and proportions ultimately make or break any outfit. When sporting flares, you want to create the illusion of balance between top and bottom.
Wider-leg and looser fits up top complement the flowing flare shape rather than fighting it. Cropped lengths help elongate your frame for a trimmer physique.
When deciding what to pair with your flare yoga pants, consider the overall silhouette you’re creating. Keep shapes streamlined from top to bottom for the most flattering optical effect.
Go Monochrome For A Slimming Look
Sticking to a single color from head to toe slims your appearance marvelously. The monochrome effect creates an unbroken line that makes you look taller.
When sporting flare yoga pants, choose a darker neutral shade like black, charcoal, navy, or chocolate brown. These colors have a grounding effect.
Stay within the same color family if not precisely matching. For example black yoga pants with chocolate boots and bag plus a gray turtleneck. Clean, crisp, and very slimming!
Incorporate Pops Of Bright Color
For those who prefer a multi-color approach, use bright shades wisely when styling flares. Limit yourself to one vibrant hue as too many compete visually.
Look for a color that flatters your complexion. Warm tones like red, orange, and fuchsia brighten up olive skin while icy blue and emerald green amplify paler skin.
Add your color pop strategically as an accessory, beauty element, or top layer. As a general rule of thumb, anchor an outfit with neutrals from the bottom up. Vibrancy on top stands out while keeping you looking grounded.
Lengthen Your Frame With Clever Tricks
Since flare yoga pants already have an elongating effect, you want to enhance that with styling choices that draw the eye up and down.
Cropped tops and jackets prevent cutting your frame in half horizontally for continuity. Pointed toe shoes do the same thing extending from your feet.
Gathered necklines, cowl collars, and hoop earrings lead eyes up your silhouette. Shoulder bags, watches, slim rings, and french manicures finish by taking focus down to your hands.
Use these subtle styling cues to move the eye vertically, turbocharging that long leggy essence innate to flares!
Troubleshoot Tricky Style Situations
You likely still have some styling questions and concerns when it comes to perfectly rocking flare yoga pants. Let’s tackle the most common issues that crop up:
Manage Length Without Tripping
Flare yoga pants come in varying rises, inseams, and openings depending on your height and body shape. It may require some trial-and-error before finding your ideal pair.
In general, the hem should hit at your lower ankle without touching the ground. Extra tall girls should check out specialty retailers catering specifically to them.
For excessively long pairs, head to your local tailor or seamstress. They can easily alter the length by removing fabric from the inner seam rather than altering the flare. Prices start around $15.
Avoid Looking Dated With Modern Pieces
Let’s face it – flare yoga pants recall the bootcut trend from decades ago that many would rather forget. But you can style them in a contemporary way with some simple updates.
Focus on clean, sharp lines in footwear and accessories rather than frilly or embellished pieces. Lean towards solid neutral hues or muted tones versus loud colors and patterns.
Incorporate modern fabrics like faux leather, silky satin, and technical outdoor gear materials. These feel fresh and now while complimenting the leggings.
Finally, pay attention to trends forecasted by major retailers each season. Update your look annually by swapping in a few recently released items from favorite stores.
Dress Them Up Or Down Seamlessly
The very best quality about flare yoga pants is they play well with almost anything. Dressing them up for a formal event or keeping it lowkey for errands proves easy peasy.
Add silky camisoles, strappy heels, and sparkly jewelry to get glammed up for a wedding or date night.
For casual days running around, opt for soft sweatshirts, dad sneakers, and a practical crossbody bag instead.
