Split the difference

Versatile and reliable, culottes are back for a Seventies summer look which can be dressed up or down

Culottes. Not quite trousers, more than shorts, could be mistaken for a skirt, can be worn under one — they’re certainly undecided, a bit like us at the moment.

While we figure out how to navigate this Covid-19 Brave New World, they make a reliable wardrobe friend, especially if you have some nice footwear to show off, if only for your own eyes. God knows, it’s the little things that get you through a crisis.

Whether that’s out walking your dog in New York city like model Georgina Burke, spotted in a pair of high waisted culottes and face mask, or going for gold like a street styler at Milan Fashion Week, fashion can help raise your spirits and spur you into action or inaction, whatever the mood. Culottes are versatile. Dress ’em up for the red carpet like Elle Fanning in Gucci block colour tailoring and tie at a Maleficent photocall in London or give your dress some depth like Asheen AW20/21 at Lakme Fashion Week.

This is what Vogue Paris has to say about them: ‘The culotte comeback has resulted in the end of the cycling shorts trend and other streetwear items in recent seasons. First designed by Paul Poiret in the 1900s, culottes have a certain Seventies charm, especially when worn in denim with a pair of long boots and a tweed blazer.’

You’ll find a pair for every pocket from Weekend Max Mara Atalia leather culottes, €495 at Brown Thomas (expect up to 15 working days for delivery) to Miss Selfridge ivory paisley print culottes for €35. If anything, we can dare to dream about stepping out once again and enjoying our clothes as a celebration of expression and freedom.