There’s been something of a split hem revolution taking over the fashion agenda.
Spearheaded by Instagram’s very own style set, our trousers are no longer destined to shield our ankles from show or the biting cold but instead, these designs are flashing the lower half of our pins with a v-shaped break - and it’s a simple switch up you can make with sophisticated results.
Victoria’s Secret’s Elsa Hosk is among the ever-growing fans as well as icons like Victoria Beckham and Rosie Huntington-Whiteley. Often in black or muted hues of beige, these styles can easily slip into your wardrobe, replacing jeans for everyday elegance or suit trousers for the 9 to 5.
In trouser or leggings form, the level of formality depends entirely on the clothing that you pair alongside them. For a polished, contemporary aesthetic, a crisp white shirt, trench and this season’s revival ballet pump will do the trick, while if you’re fashioning them for a casual weekend jaunt, an oversized jumper and trainers work just as well. If you’re bringing the sleek style into your office rotation, a blazer and top paired with heels gives immediate sophistication.
The sleek trompe-l’œil design has the uncanny ability to elongate the legs, even when worn with flats. Just be sure to opt for a slightly longer length than you would typically. Cropped silhouettes are better suited to classic tailoring rather than this split-hem variation.
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Reformation Fletcher straight-leg high-rise trousers
Effortless sophistication is the Reformation MO and these split hem trousers are a case in point. They come with a welcomed high-rise fit, in a versatile jet black and a buttery soft stretch-jersey fabric.
Also available directly at Reformation
Buy now £150.00, Selfridges
Mango Slit hem leggings
These leggings from Mango have the seemingly miraculous ability to elongate the length of your legs with the on-trend front slit. Set to be the most worn bottoms in your collection, they come complete with a zipper closure to give timelessness to the style. While leggings by nature, they have a polished tailored construction.
Buy now £22.99, Mango
Norma Kamali Spat split-hem stretch-jersey leggings
It is likely this take on the trend from Norma Kamali is the one that you have spotted on your feed as they are hugely popular among those in the know. The New York born label combines put-together designs with sumptuous fabrics that look as good as they feel. These leggings are no different with their stretch jersey construction, flared legs and tactically-placed split hem.
Buy now £155.00, MatchesFashion
Reiss Jayne Split Front Skinny Trousers
For sleek suiting on the high street, Reiss has forged itself ahead of the pack and the label has tapped into the enduring front split trouser trend too with the Jayne. The skinny silhouette and cut makes for a flattering combination that is enhanced by the high rise. Also available in petite.
Buy now £110.00, Reiss
Jaeger Split Hem Straight Leg Trousers
Don’t underestimate the quality of M&S’ suiting offering, which now includes Jaeger. One half of a power suit in the making, these split hem trousers are the finishing touch with a straight-leg boardroom-ready silhouette that have the hidden bonus of stretch for when you need a little extra give. Size 6 to 20.
Buy now, M&S
& Other Stories Fitted Slit-Hem Satin Trousers
For a touch of luxe to your eveningwear, & Other Stories has taken the idea of the slit-hem trousers and run with it by offering the style in an after dark-ready satin fabric that is sumptuous and sleek. That oh-so coveted slit is placed centre front rather than directly in the middle.
Buy now £85.00, & Other Stories
WARDROBE.NYC Release 05 high-rise split-hem leggings
The clue is in the name with this brand. The New York label produces minimalistic basics that will become like a uniform in your wardrobe rotation with the ability to be paired with anything. These refined variations have a high rise fit, and zipped cuffs so you have the power to choose how dramatic the front slit can be.
Buy now £450.00, MyTheresa
Victoria Beckham Body high-rise split-cuff leggings
Victoria Beckham’s style was the one that started it all. First spotted on the former Spice Girl’s spring/summer 2019 show, the legging/trousers have reached cult status with their versatility to adapt to your on or off-duty wardrobe. They are defined by their split cuff, of course, but also the stretchy knit fabric and high-rise waist.
Buy now £350.00, MyTheresa
H&M Flared slit-hem leggings
Whether you are wearing on an evening out with a bralette and suit jacket, in the office paired with a shirt or off-duty with trainers, these trousers will become the most hard-working in your wardrobe. The minimalistic style has a high waist, straight leg and flared hems thanks to the slit detail.
Buy now £17.99, H&M
