A challenge many women experience is finding pants that fit perfectly when your hip and waist are drastically different sizes.

There are a few approaches you can take.

First, is having your pants tailored. This is certainly a great option for pants you already own (or those without elastic waistband). When buying new pants it’s usually best to buy pants that fit the widest part. That way you can ask your tailor to fit the part that is too loose.

A second option (and the one which this post is centered on) is opting for pants with an elastic waistband or elastic fabric.

See also our articles on the best pants to hide a belly and tummy control jeans.

Don’t automatically think that an elastic waistband means severely limiting your styling options or that you have to settle for a pair of very, very unflattering pants. Today we will show you the extensive options you have when it comes to selecting pants with elastic waistbands that create flattering and chic looks. From on-trend cropped jeans to wide leg black trousers, most every kind of pant you can imagine comes in elastic waistband styles.

Choosing the right pants means you no longer have to sacrifice style for comfort and function and it means you may be able to find a good fit without having to visit a tailor.

Some quick guidelines to keep in mind:

  • Keep your body shape in mind when dressing.
  • If you pick a dressy pair of pants that has a drawstring, it might be best to select a longer top to keep your look office appropriate.
  • Keep the style rule in mind that it’s usually best to combine a lose fit with a tighter or more tailored top. If your pants have a tighter fit a wider top may look better. Treat these pants the same way you would any other style. They might be more comfortable and fit better, however, you should still strive to style them appropriately.

Dressy pants

As mentioned above, there are a number of great elastic waistband options. Typically, if you are going for a dressier option in this style you should aim for pants that do not have those scrunchy type of hems. These can be a challenge when going for an office-appropriate look, and can be more appropriate for casual or after-work hours looks.

elastic waistband pants dressy office looks | 40plusstyle.com

Casual pants

There are also a number of casual options with elastic waistbands. Some styles even create very flat waistband looks that almost appear to be button closure pants.

elastic waistband jeans pants comfortable | 40plusstyle.com

Here are three ways to wear elastic waistband pants in a way that looks absolutely chic and current

To the office

elastic waistband office looks flora pumps black blazer | 40plusstyle.com

To an evening out

elastic waistband silk blouse wide leg pants heels clutch box | 40plusstyle.com

To a day spent in the park

linen shirt denim jacket elastic waistband cargo pants flip flops | 40plusstyle.com

Bonus: The jumpsuit alternative

Another approach you can take is the jumpsuit, which creates a complete look (which you can take a step further by adding a jacket or vest).

See also our article on the best jumpsuits for women.

Select jumpsuits that have elastic waists, drawstrings, and/or belts for loosening or cinching the waist. This allows you to have a customized fit at the waist without having to sacrifice a significant amount of a good fit for your bottom half.

jumpsuit comfortable stretch | 40plusstyle.com

What are some your biggest challenges when it comes to dressing your body shape? What is your go-to style trick?

How to fit pants when your hip and waist have different sizes | 40plusstyle.com

Feature image by Sandra

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