The answer is simple: you don’t. Even as a woman, you, yes you, can wear pants instead of a dress to formal occasions. Even to weddings! You do not have to wear a dress just because you have a vagina. Some celebrities do a good job of showing this off – Janelle Monae wears gorgeous pantsuits to award shows all the time, so definitely use her for inspiration. But other than the occasional female pantsuit gracing the red carpet, it’s rare that young women see other women owning the look. And, again, that doesn’t mean you can’t do it. Formal pants can look killer, and there’s no reason dudes should hog all of that comfort for themselves.
So, if you want to skip the traditional dress for any special occasion you have coming up, you fully have our blessing. Here are some style tips on how to wear formal pants instead of a dress, with lots of outfit ideas to steal:
1. A pair of loose, wide leg pants is a great summer staple as they’re nice and airy. Add a tighter tank top for a nice balance, some fancy jewelry, a cute bag, and a pair of heels.
2. Keep things classic and simple with a formal pantsuit that fits well. With dramatic eye makeup and pretty heels, this look is perfect for prom or any other formal occasion.
3. You can definitely still achieve that with pants. Opt for a jumpsuit or top that shows some skin, like this low cut version. Just make sure you’re not going against any dress codes!
4. For a sexier twist on a pantsuit, layer your open blazer over a lacy crop top – or a bralette with high waisted pants. This look is elegant but still shows off some skin.
5. A tie with a fitted blazer and pants, plus heels and a bold lip is a killer look. It’s bold and unique while still being classy enough for any event.
6. If you really want to push boundaries, wear your blazer over… nothing. Or wear it over a sheer top the same color as your skin tone to give off that illusion. With a long necklace and a pair of heels.
7. A crop top is a great way to make a pair of formal pants look fresh and sexy. If you don’t want to do anything too risky, pair a high-neck crop like this one with high-waisted wide leg pants.
8. Opt for formal pants in an unexpected material or pattern, like these shimmery gold pants. This will likely be the statement piece of the outfit, so you’ll just need a nice basic top and a pair of heels.
9. Jumpsuits are such a great option for formal pants. Pick one in a bright shade and a bold pattern to really make a statement.
10. A pair of culottes is great for spring and summer, as they’re on the cooler side, weather-wise. Wear a formal pair of culottes with a silky tank and a pair of fun heels.
11. Of course, you can always stick with the basics, like a black jumpsuit. It’s classic and looks good on everyone. All you need is heels, jewelry, and a bold lip color.
12. Make formal trousers more exciting by adding a super trendy piece, like statement sleeves.
13. Wear a patterned jumpsuit with a pair of heeled sandals, and… that’s it! You really don’t need anything else.
14. Wear separates that match, like this dramatic striped top and pants. It’s almost like a jumpsuit, but you don’t have to get naked to pee!
15. If you want to wear a pantsuit, it doesn’t have to be all in one shade – you can definitely have fun with patterns! This floral suit is super feminine and fun.
16. Opt for a super bright jumpsuit, like this neon yellow option.
17. Pick something trendy to look more ~stylish~ like this striped pants and top set. I love how her bag, shoes, and lips are all the same shade of red.
18. Go for the monochrome look, like, for example, all black. It’s chic and easy, especially with black.
19. Pick a jumpsuit with fun embellishments, like a criss-cross back, cut-outs, and a belt.
20. Spice up a simple pantsuit by adding something unexpected, like a matching metallic shirt and pair of heels.
