Hot Culotte

The culotte brings together the comfort of trousers, the chicness of a skirt and the looks of an outstanding piece. There’s one for everyone, as it comes in lots of different fabrics and cuts.

The culotte. Extremely popular in the ‘70s, when it was still called the ‘split skirt’. It’s back, but without the pretentious image of the past. The culotte has become cool and funky. It comes in various materials, from soft leather, sturdy cotton and supple wool to silk and jersey, and different cuts, from elegant, rustling and spacey to sleek - like Summum's version with a razor-sharp fold.
The comfortable wide-leg trousers require a little thought, but once you've mastered the styling, they'll be a favourite in no time. It's all about finding the right balance between the bottom and top of the outfit. Just take Louis Vuitton: his oversized waistcoats went with narrow culottes and high boots that showed just a bit of bare knee. Rugged and sexy. If you go for a wide culotte, choose a less voluminous top. Since the culotte visually cuts your leg in two, you look smaller. A ton-sur-ton outfit counteracts this. Take a look at the black and green creation by Zimmermann, the fresh red ensemble by Giambattista Valli or Summum’s cream and pebble version.
Add shape to your silhouette by accentuating your waistline. Tuck a beautiful blouse into your culotte, or combine it with a polo neck jumper and short plain jacket in understated tones, like the one by Alberta Ferretti. Ulla Johnson emphasised the waist with a short top with ruffles at the hem. For something more 'daytime', throw on a long sleeveless Summum cardigan - another winter hit. And finally, shoes determine the culotte’s success. A pair of high boots give your look a sophisticated ‘70s kick, while Mary Jane pumps show off your thin ankles. And there you have it: the success of the culotte.