Harem Pants Never Seem To Go Out Of Style

 

If you have never owned a pair of harem pants, you are in the minority. These pants, also known as parachute pants, were popular in the 1980s and are making a resurgence. Both men and women wear them, as do people in special occupations such as belly dancers. These long pants are baggy throughout the upper legs, tapered at the ankle, and they often feature side flaps on the hips that button in the waist area. The crotch section is baggy and loose, reaching to below the knee.

 

How To Wear Harem Pants

 

With such an interesting cut, people are often confused about how to wear harem pants. Belly dancers wear these, frequently pairing them with a short pleated skirt that covers the upper portion of the pants. Harem pants originated in India and men in the Indian culture wear them under a long, baggy shirt of the same color. The shirt and pant fabric is usually lightweight and breathable, perfect for the hot Indian climate.

A modern version of these pants was made popular by the rapper MC Hammer in the late 1980s. Hammer was frequently seen sporting metallic, silk, or sequin harem pants at concerts and media appearances. Less fabric was used to create these fashionable designs than the traditional version. Other music artists adopted this style, as did athletes, who were frequently seen wearing plainer versions of these pants in the gym.

 

Where To Buy Harem Pants

 

To purchase a pair of harem pants, head to the store or jump on the computer. Pants for men and women are available in a variety of colors and sizes. Some feature a stretch waistband and drawstring tie closure, while others snap at the waist. Many are made from comfortable material like polyester and spandex, providing additional give to these already loose pants. Side pockets offer storage space and some styles feature faux rear pocket flaps for a traditional touch.

Shoppers who want to feel like rock stars can find black leather harem pants from A.L.C. for about $360. The leather is soft and creased and the underside is suede, offering a comfortable fit from every angle. A front zip closure makes it easy to get into and out of the pants. The folded suede waist adds to the comfort and the front has angled pockets. Legs featuring the traditional tapered design and a slouched seat create the desirable harem look. These pants will make anyone feel like a million bucks.

 

How To Make Harem Pants

 

Not all shoppers are willing to shell out hundreds of dollars for designer harem pants. Learning how to make these pants allows anyone to add some style to the wardrobe without breaking the bank. A cheap way to create these pants is to purchase a pair of pull-on pants several sizes too large. Adjust the length of the legs and cut the waist to around the hips. Sew casings into the ankles and new waist and then thread elastic through each. Adjust the elastic to achieve the proper fit, sew the ends together, and sew the casings closed.

Those who consider themselves more creative can sew the pants from a harem pants pattern that involves only two seams and two casings. Between one and 1 ¼ yards of 60-inch wide fabric or two to 2 ½ yards of 45 or 52-inch fabric are needed. Very light or sheer fabric will require additional fullness, so more fabric should be used. The front and back of the pants can be exactly the same or the front can dip about an inch lower to prevent material from bunching. Slitting the sides creates an opening that can be decorated with trim. The two sides can then be connected with ribbons or strands of beads in true belly dancer fashion.

 

Spicing Up The Look Of Basic Harem Pants

 

Unless they are made from a very decorative fabric, traditional harem pants can be rather plain. To create vertical interest, a scarf or panel can be attached to the front with an elastic band or sewn onto the pants. A hip scarf will hide the elastic band and create an additional fashion statement. Slimming the pants and tapering them with darts creates a traditional Indian look and is flattering for a petite figure. People with short legs should avoid styles that are extremely ballooned.

Fabrics like lingerie satin, chiffon, lace, knit or sheer metallics, georgette, cut velvet on chiffon, and blouse-weight silk create a classic appearance. For a folk-style look, select a sheer or medium-weight soft cotton. Fabric that is slightly firmer can be used to make slim style harem pants since these do not have to drape. Stiff fabrics like heavy brocades, thick velvets, and bridal satins should be avoided, though they can be used to make the panels.

 

Belly Dance Harem Pants

 

Some belly dancers make their own patterns to create harem pants, while others buy pre-made patterns. Mainstream pattern makers like McCall’s and Simplicity offer patterns but these are often designed as Halloween costumes rather than for belly dancing. They are usually intended for one-time wear and are not compatible with vigorous movement. Belly dancers who make their own costumes should look for patterns from companies that create pant designs for this type of dancing.

Belly dance patterns will create better-fitting pants for small, medium, and large sizes. Dancers larger than size 14 should not use these patterns unless they are able to do their own alterations. An assortment of patterns are available online including those suitable for historical, folkloric, and nightclub use. There are even patterns for male belly dancers to use.

Whether harem pants are bought or made, they make a fashion statement when worn to work, out on the town, or while belly dancing. They are easy to create, simple to wear, and can be accented with decorative panels and scarves. Both men and women will find these pants comfortable and stylish enough to wear for work, play, or while mastering the classical alluring art of belly dancing.