I Can't Go Anywhere in NYC Without Seeing This Controversial Trend

One of the many joys of working in fashion is watching the trend cycle play out. You see trends grace the runway and then get eaten alive by fashion editors and industry insiders. A few months go by and one day you walk out your front door only to be surrounded by people everywhere wearing a trend that you can recall its exact origins. It's a true feeling of accomplishment especially when the said trend was initially met with distaste from the general public. 

The description above matches exactly what's going on with low-rise pants and skirts right now. I still remember when the trend first popped up on our radars. Initially, most people were outrageous stating they'd never give it a try. Fast forward to today and I'm almost always in low-rise and can't walk a block without seeing it in NYC.

As an early adopter, I smile every time I see someone in low-rise pants. The confidence that comes with pulling off something so daring says everything I need to know about a person. We should definitely be friends. If you're struggling with styling low-rise jeans, look no further than the seven looks below you should certainly copy.

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(Image credit: @champagnemani)

Baggy white cargo pants are the first type of low-rise pants that we need to talk about. They're all over my Instagram feed right now and a must-have for any It girl. If you're new to low-rise and want to ease into it, try wearing high-waisted bikini bottoms or leggings underneath the pants as seen above.

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(Image credit: @devonleecarlson)

If you're wondering what I meant when I said that I see low-rises everywhere in NYC, this photo is a glimpse into the world through my eyes. On nights out in New York, you'll see many groups of girls walking the streets looking just like this. You have to love their confidence.

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(Image credit: @devapollon)

The more Y2K, the better. I am loving the patches on these low-rise pants since they add a lot of 2000s flare. Since this is a more trendy piece, why not go all out with a statement?

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(Image credit: @_sierramayhew)

Oh, look, it's me! I was honestly very nervous to wear this set that showed so much skin. Once I got over that, I had never felt more confident in an outfit like this. That's the power of low-rise.

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(Image credit: @sofiamcoelho)

This is another great look to try if you're feeling wary about stepping into low-rise. Wearing a longer shirt with your jeans is a great way to wear the trend without showing too much skin. The cardigan is the perfect added touch, and I'm loving it.

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(Image credit: @endlesslyloveclub)

You know you've fully embraced the low-rise trend when you're wearing a crop top right along with it. It's giving Britney Spears. I'm so here for it.

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(Image credit: @annawinck)

Colorblocking at its finest. Wearing something low-rise doesn't have to come at a discomfort to you. This look is perfect for a cozy night out.

Up Next: If You Hate All the Early 2000s Trends Right Now, Enjoy These 9 Modern Ones

Associate Editor

Sierra Mayhew was always destined to work in fashion, but she didn't know it at first. Growing up with no choice but to wear a rotation of school uniforms and activewear, her love for fashion really blossomed when she moved away for college and was able to finally define her very own personal style. Shortly thereafter, she interned at Elle magazine and instantly knew that editorial was for her. After graduating from the University of Notre Dame, she worked for ShopBazaar, contributing regularly to Bazaar.com, and finally made her way to Who What Wear, where she is an associate editor. When she’s not working, you can catch her always trying to catch a flight, rollerblading through New York City traffic, or exploring the latest luxury vintage boutique.