What shoes to wear with bell bottoms?
Table of Contents
Introduction
Bell bottoms have a storied history that dates back to the early 19th century, starting as part of sailors’ uniforms in the U.S. Navy. The wide-legged design helped sailors roll up their pants more easily, especially useful during work at sea.
By the 1960s and ‘70s, bell bottoms became a major trend in the counterculture movement, representing a sense of rebellion and individuality. Worn by rockstars like Jimi Hendrix and The Beatles, they quickly became a symbol of bohemian style. The flared pants continued in popularity through the disco era of the late ‘70s, with bolder colors and fabrics to match the glam aesthetic of the time.
After fading in the 1980s, bell bottoms made a comeback in the ’90s as “bootcut” jeans with a slight flare, and today they’re back again with retro inspiration, adding versatility and drama to modern outfits.
Pros and Cons of bell bottoms
Pros
- Flattering Silhouette: The fitted waist and thighs that flare out at the bottom can create a balanced, hourglass look, especially flattering for those with curvier hips.
- Lengthening Effect: When paired with heels, bell bottoms can make legs appear longer, as the flare draws the eye downward.
- Retro Vibe: Bell bottoms add a unique, retro aesthetic to an outfit, instantly giving it personality.
- Versatile Styling: They work well with a range of tops, from fitted tees and cropped blouses to chunky sweaters.
- Comfortable Fit: The wide leg allows for more movement and ventilation, making them a comfy choice for warmer weather.
Cons
- Impractical in Rain or Mud: The flared bottoms can get wet or dirty easily, especially if they’re longer.
- Limited Shoe Options: Not all shoes work well with bell bottoms. Heels or platforms are often needed to keep them from dragging.
- Less Streamlined for Modern Styles: Depending on the trend cycle, bell bottoms can sometimes feel dated or harder to style with contemporary pieces.
- Fit Challenges: Getting the right length can be tricky; they’re often too long or too short, making them hard to wear with different shoes.
- Niche Trend: Although they’re popular again, bell bottoms are still a niche style and may not suit everyone’s taste or every occasion.
5 Best shoes to wear with bell bottoms
Bell bottoms have a fun, retro vibe, and the right shoes can add to the look or modernize it. Here are some top options:
Platform Heels
– A classic choice for bell bottoms, platforms elevate your look and keep with the ’70s style.
Chunky Block Heels
– Great for a vintage vibe but with more stability than stiletto heels. They pair especially well with denim bell bottoms.
Pointed-Toe Boots
– Perfect for a sleek, contemporary look, especially with higher-waisted bell bottoms or flared trousers.
Busbee Style
Mules
– These add a casual, effortless look. You can go for heeled or flat mules, depending on the occasion.
Sneakers
– White or neutral sneakers give a fresh, modern twist and keep things comfortable. Go for a streamlined sneaker to balance the wide leg of bell bottoms.
READ ALSO: 6 Best ems boots
FAQs
Do Converse go with bell bottoms?
Yes, Converse sneakers can definitely go with bell bottoms, especially for a laid-back, retro-inspired look. Converse add a cool, casual vibe that complements the flared silhouette of bell bottoms and works well for both denim and softer fabric flares.
What body type looks good in bell bottom jeans?
Bell bottoms are flattering on a variety of body types, thanks to their balanced, leg-lengthening silhouette. Here’s a breakdown of how they work with different body types:
Hourglass – With a fitted waist and hip area, bell bottoms accentuate the natural curves of an hourglass figure, balancing the silhouette with the flare at the bottom.
Pear-Shaped – The wider hemline at the bottom helps balance out wider hips, creating an elongated, proportional look. High-waisted bell bottoms can also highlight the waist, drawing attention upward.
Apple-Shaped – High-waisted bell bottoms can help create definition at the waist and balance out the upper body, especially if paired with a fitted top to streamline the midsection.
Straight or Rectangle – For those with a straighter build, bell bottoms add the illusion of curves, especially if they have a fitted waist and hip area. This style helps create shape and dimension, balancing the lower and upper body.
Petite – Bell bottoms can be flattering on petite frames, but opting for a higher waist and pairing them with heels (like platforms or chunky shoes) is key to avoiding a “swallowed” look. The lengthened leg line helps add height and create a longer silhouette.
Conclusion
The best choice depends on whether you’re going casual or dressy, but these options will elevate any bell bottom look!
Author
Paula Maureen has collaborated with famous shoe brands and designed popular women’s sandals. As a proofreader, she contributes to foot wisdom.
