Like It or Not, This Trend Is Still Going Strong

We all know that fashion is cyclical. Most trends, even ones we’d thought had gasped their last breath, tend to return in one form or another. Whether we want them to or not. Witness the recent resurgence of opera gloves, vests and even dad hats. So it should come as no surprise that stirrup pants, the often despised fashion staples of the mid-80s, are making a big comeback.

The unmistakable straps were first spotted on the Fall 2016 runways of Balenciaga and Marni. Naturally, street style stars were quick to pick up on the trend. See below for definitive proof.

Stirrup pants on the street; Images: Imaxtree, Getty

While the thought of wearing stirrup pants may make you cringe, it’s time to give them a second chance. Today’s versions are sleeker and decidedly chicer. They play well with the massive athleisure trend as a sort of leggings version 2.0. But they’re also turning up in office-friendly styles that take inspiration from trousers. And unlike the 80s when stirrups were strictly worn inside shoes, fashion girls are opting to wear the straps on the outside as well.

Ready to give stirrup pants a try? Here are 17 pairs to shop now.


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