The Ultimate Guide to Pants for Women

The Ultimate Guide to Pants for Women

We've been pairing women with their dream clothing for over a century, so we know a thing or two about ladies pants! Read this handy Ultimate Guide that we've compiled to learn all about pants for women.
Val's View: International Podcast Day Reading The Ultimate Guide to Pants for Women 18 minutes Next Are Skorts Still in Fashion in 2022?

When Did Women Start Wearing Pants?

Pants were created millennia ago by the nomads of the Eurasian steppes and were likely worn by both the men and women of these tribes as they traversed on horseback through vast grasslands. This new garment was designed for comfort and ease of movement while riding, as saddles wouldn’t be invented for at least another thousand years. Hunting and fighting alongside the men of their communities, these women were held in high-regard and some have even been found buried with the same honors and battle regalia as their male counterparts. In fact, it is thought that these rugged, trouser-wearing women inspired the legendary Amazons- a group of fierce female warriors from Ancient Greek mythology who did not yield to male authority. Eventually these cultures ceased being nomadic and upon settling down, the women were once again relegated to wearing skirts.

This trend continued, mostly unchallenged, in the West until the 19th century, when suffragettes took up the mantle of fighting for the right to vote, in addition to demanding less restrictive clothing. This time, women were riding bicycles as well as horses and wanted clothing that would better suit their new pastime. Bloomers, a voluminous predecessor to women’s slacks, were named after Amelia Jenks Bloomer, who published the first newspaper by and for women. Though bloomers had their heyday amid the burgeoning feminist movement, they soon fell out of favor.

There were brief peaks in popularity for more practical women’s garb, including pants, during the World Wars due to ladies replacing the men in the workforce who went off to fight, though it wasn’t until the second half of the 20th century that trousers began to be viewed as acceptable womenswear. The social movements of the ‘60s and ‘70s challenged the status quo and led to pants taking over skirts and dresses as the de facto clothing choice for everyday wear, which continues to this day. 

Read More: When Did Women Start Wearing Pants?

PANTS, SLACKS & TROUSERS

In the United States, all of these terms may be used interchangeably to mean the same garment, though generally slacks denote a dressier style of pant. Trousers is used more commonly in British English because in the UK, pants refer to undergarments.

PANTS, SLACKS & TROUSERS

In the United States, all of these terms may be used interchangeably to mean the same garment, though generally slacks denote a dressier style of pant. Trousers is used more commonly in British English because in the UK, pants refer to undergarments.


Types of Pants for Women

A well-fitting pair of full-length pants fall below the ankle and skim the top of the foot. Generally, in regular length pants (not petite or long), the inseam is about 30-31 inches.

SKIMMER OR DIGGER?

Clamdiggers have a playful name which refers to the ideal pant length for digging for clams in the surf. The alternate name, skimmer pants, also calls to mind wading through the tides while on a beach outing.

Ankle pants, which have an inseam of 26-28 inches, fall just above or at the ankle. An ideal ankle pant hits at the narrowest part of the ankle to create the most visually-appealing silhouette.

There are several types of crop pants, including capri pants and clamdigger pants (sometimes called skimmer pants). Capri pants, named after the Isle of Capri where they became popular in the ‘50s and ‘60s, usually fall at about the mid-calf, while clamdiggers fall just below the knee.

Read More: What Are Ankle Pants?, What Are Capri Pants?

SKIMMER OR DIGGER?

Clamdiggers have a playful name which refers to the ideal pant length for digging for clams in the surf. The alternate name, skimmer pants, also calls to mind wading through the tides while on a beach outing.

A well-fitting pair of full-length pants fall below the ankle and skim the top of the foot. Generally, in regular length pants (not petite or long), the inseam is about 30-31 inches.

Ankle pants, which have an inseam of 26-28 inches, fall just above or at the ankle. An ideal ankle pant hits at the narrowest part of the ankle to create the most visually-appealing silhouette.

There are several types of crop pants, including capri pants and clamdigger pants (sometimes called skimmer pants). Capri pants, named after the Isle of Capri where they became popular in the ‘50s and ‘60s, usually fall at about the mid-calf, while clamdiggers fall just below the knee.

Read More: What Are Ankle Pants?, What Are Capri Pants?

SKIMMER OR DIGGER?

Clamdiggers have a playful name which refers to the ideal pant length for digging for clams in the surf. The alternate name, skimmer pants, also calls to mind wading through the tides while on a beach outing.


The Range of Pant Styles & Fit

"Do you prefer pull-on pants or those with a classic fly?” This is usually the first question we ask our customers when helping them find the perfect pair of pants. For many it is simply a matter of comfort to choose pull-on varieties, as there are no zippers or buttons that can potentially dig into your tummy. Pull-on pants are also a great option for those with limited dexterity to wear because there are no closures that need to be fussed with while dressing. This style of pant also has a clean, minimalist appeal, creating an effortlessly polished look anytime you slip them on.

On the other hand, some ladies like the look of pants with a zippered fly, which is timelessly fashionable. Here at Anthony’s, this type is mostly commonly seen on our jeans. Denim pants with a zip fly are a reliable standby in anyone’s wardrobe, especially if they are of the 5-pocket variety. Classically cool, this kind of closure can be found on many of our pants- basic and embellished alike.

Starting out more relaxed in the hips and thighs and narrowing down near the lower leg, tapered pants combine the best of both worlds- ease of wear and a refined silhouette. Pants known as straight-leg do not narrow near the ankle and can be slightly relaxed, falling in a straight line from the thigh through to the ankle.

If you are looking for bottoms that are a bit roomier through the leg, then palazzo pants are for you. These luxurious wide-legged pants are flowy and gorgeous, and we love to carry them in a range of dazzling prints. Ideal for lounging but refined enough for a dinner date, palazzo pants are a great alternative to maxi skirts. Cropped wide-leg pants, also known as culottes or gauchos, are another stylish choice and are a nice way to show off your favorite footwear.

Read More: Palazzo Pants- the Perfect Resort Wear Bottoms

VAL'S STYLE TIP

When wearing wide leg styles, pair with feminine or fitted tops to create a put-together look.

When wearing wide leg styles, pair with feminine or fitted tops to create a put-together look.

Types of Athletic Pants

Krazy Larry Pull-On Ankle Pant | Anthony's Florida

These sporty pants are great for the gym, but are also perfect for creating a chic yet casual outfit to wear while running errands. Joggers are defined by their pull-on waistband, often with an adjustable drawstring, and their gathered ankle cuffs. This tapering helps to sculpt a polished silhouette that looks fabulous whether these bottoms are paired with sneakers or strappy sandals.

  • Pull-on waistband
  • Adjustable drawstring
  • Gathered ankle cuffs

Equipped with a pull-on waistband that is often extra wide for added comfort, yoga pants are made from stretchy material that is meant to move along with you through a yoga routine. Because of this flexibility, yoga pants are versatile and have become a favorite component of WFH wear during the pandemic. Yoga pants can take the form of leggings which are skin-tight throughout the length of the leg, or they can be a bit looser and even flared towards the bottom.

  • Pull-on waistband, often extra wide
  • Stretchy fabric
  • Either totally form-fitting or flared

Meant for relaxing in, lounge pants are designed to be ultra-comfortable. These bottoms can double as pajama pants and often have a drawstring waistband and a wide-leg silhouette. Sometimes these pants are even crafted from fleece, flannel, or other plush fabrics for a warm, luxe feel.

  • Adjustable drawstring waistband
  • Often has a wide-leg silhouette
  • Often made from soft, plush fabrics

High-rise

For a silhouette that hugs your curves and provides tummy coverage, try a high-rise pant.

In truth, most of the pants that we offer at Anthony’s are of this variety as we find that our customers prefer bottoms that rise just above the navel. Many of these pants feature pull-on waistbands and tummy control panels for a truly sleek look.

Mid-rise

Because it is a matter of preference, some women like the way mid-rise pants fit over high-rise types.

Pants with a mid-rise waistline fall below the navel which may be more comfortable for some individuals as waistbands that are too high can sometimes be irritating to the skin. The mid-rise pants we carry at Anthony’s tend to have zippers rather than pull-on waists.

HIGH-RISE FAVORITES

MID-RISE FAVORITES


Fabrics for Pants

One of the most popular types of fabrics for pants, denim is synonymous with blue jeans, though in actuality this strong, mostly cotton fabric can come in any color. Ever-versatile denim brings to mind both casual, everyday style and haute couture fashion. Popular in the US since the Gold Rush, this fabric can now be seen all over the globe. These days, almost any type of clothing can be constructed from denim, though we love it best on classic jean pants, especially when paired with a touch of spandex for ultimate comfort and wearability.

Read More: The Perfect Jeans: Your Guide to Denim

One of the most popular types of fabrics for pants, denim is synonymous with blue jeans, though in actuality this strong, mostly cotton fabric can come in any color. Ever-versatile denim brings to mind both casual, everyday style and haute couture fashion. Popular in the US since the Gold Rush, this fabric can now be seen all over the globe. These days, almost any type of clothing can be constructed from denim, though we love it best on classic jean pants, especially when paired with a touch of spandex for ultimate comfort and wearability.

Read More: The Perfect Jeans: Your Guide to Denim

VAL'S STYLE TIP

Pair denim pants with a ruched top for a more flattering take on the classic jeans and a t-shirt combo.

Pair denim pants with a ruched top for a more flattering take on the classic jeans and a t-shirt combo.

COTTON

Pure cotton pants are lovely as lounge pants and we are particularly fond of lightweight, gauzy fabrics. This material is all-natural and gets softer the more often you wear it. Available in crisp whites or colorful varieties, pants made from cotton are breathable and perfect for keeping you cool during warm weather.

COTTON

Pure cotton pants are lovely as lounge pants and we are particularly fond of lightweight, gauzy fabrics. This material is all-natural and gets softer the more often you wear it. Available in crisp whites or colorful varieties, pants made from cotton are breathable and perfect for keeping you cool during warm weather.

LINEN

Another natural fiber that is wonderful for staying comfortable when the temperatures soar is linen.

This fabric is woven from the stems of the flax plant and has been utilized in clothing for thousands of years, even pre-dating written history. Like cotton, linen is exceedingly good at ventilation, leading it to be a choice fabric for summer outfits. Linen also has a wonderful, rustic look due to its unique texture which can work in your favor for boho chic looks.

BENGALINE

Typically made from a combination of natural fibers and synthetic materials, bengaline fabric has the best of both worlds: it is sturdy and stretchy at the same time. This fabric takes its name from Bengal, a region in South Asia currently comprised of the country of Bangladesh and the Indian state of West Bengal. Bengaline was historically produced here and has enjoyed constant popularity throughout the world since the late 1800s due to its substantial yet supple texture. Several of our most raved-about pant styles are constructed of this material which lends itself extremely well to accentuating the wearer’s curves while remaining comfortable and easy to care for.

UPF50+

If sun-protection is what you’re after, then our range of pants made from UPF50+ fabric is perfect for you.

Crafted from an innovative blend of synthetic textiles, our pants with sun-protection shield you from 98% of all UVA and UVB rays so you can play all day in the sun. We have everything from sleek leggings to tailored trousers made from UPF50+ fabric, so you’ll be sure to find something for every outdoor adventure!


Trendy Pants for Women

EMBELLISHMENTS

There are countless ways to jazz up a pair of pants to take them from ordinary to extraordinary and we love to offer a varied selection of uniquely embellished pants.

A classic embellishment that can take all sorts of forms is embroidery. This artform uses colored thread to create designs sewn onto a background of fabric. These designs can be sprinkled all-over the garment or just in certain areas such as the waistband, the hemline, or running lengthwise along the side seams. Often featuring a floral motif (but not always!), embroidered pants add a touch of elegance to any ensemble.

Scalloped hemlines are all the rage and we have this style available on several different types of bottoms, including capri pants. This unique cut is named after the ridged shape of a scallop seashell. We carry cropped scalloped pants in a variety of fashion colors to refresh your wardrobe and reinvigorate your everyday looks.

Painted pants are a novel way to spice up an outfit. With everything ranging from paint drops or splatters to graffiti-inspired looks, painted pants are quite edgy. We have pants painted with rosettes, daisies, and even abstract masterpieces!

Want to look glam in an instant? We have got the pants for you! Sequins, rhinestones, pearls, beads, studs, and lace are some of the many decorations on our embellished pants, ensuring that you will always look ultra-fabulous.  

Read More: Trendy Pants for Ladies in 2022


Let's Take a Moment to Talk About Care

We have good news: almost all of the pants that we sell at Anthony’s are machine washable! Of course, it is always important to check the care instructions on each garment before laundering for the first time, but as a rule, we recommend that our most popular pants made from bengaline fabric (Zac and Rachel, Coconut Row, and Krazy Larry) be machine washed in cool water and tumble dried at a low temperature. Washing in this way ensures that your favorite pants will have the longest lifespan possible so that you may enjoy them for years to come.


The Most Popular Pants at Anthony's Ladies Apparel

ZAC AND RACHEL

For a classic tailored pant at an affordable price point, Zac and Rachel is the brand you’ve been looking for. We offer Zac and Rachel pants in full-length and ankle length, as well as pull-on and zip-fly styles. In a range of neutral solids, fashion colors, and exciting prints, Zac and Rachel has something special for you.

COCONUT ROW

Sleek and stylish pants can be hard to come by, which is where Coconut Row comes in. Coconut Row is our own private label, so you can be sure that we’ve done our research to make these chic pants perfect for a mid-range budget. This line of pants is an ideal foundation for a great outfit!

KRAZY LARRY

Available in a rainbow of colors, both basic and bright, as well as one-of-a-kind prints, Krazy Larry’s premium pants fit like a glove and look great the whole time. Another great thing about this brand is the fact that it is made in the US. We just know you’re going to go crazy for Krazy Larry!

ZAC & RACHEL COCONUT ROW KRAZY LARRY
  • $
  • multiple lengths and styles
  • neutral solids and fun prints
  • $$
  • our private label with a customer-favorite fit
  • must-have basics
  • $$$
  • impressive range of colors and fashion prints
  • made in the USA

What is the real difference between Zac and Rachel, Coconut Row, and Krazy Larry?

ZAC & RACHEL COCONUT ROW KRAZY LARRY
  • $
  • multiple lengths and styles
  • neutral solids and fun prints
  • $$
  • our private label with a customer-favorite fit
  • must-have basics
  • $$$
  • impressive range of colors and fashion prints
  • made in the USA

ANTHONY'S RESORT WEAR

This is our flagship brand and for good reason- this clothing line is chock-full of stunning prints and vivid colorways. Anthony’s Resort Wear clothes will illuminate your wardrobe, especially the leggings and well-tailored pants that come in a range of bright shades. Best of all, these bottoms coordinate beautifully with the Anthony Resort Wear’s matching tops.

POPULAR ITEMS

TRIBAL

Designed in Canada, Tribal’s pants are the cornerstone of their fashion empire. This brand creates all sorts of contemporary women’s clothing but is especially focused on crafting the absolute best in ladies pants. Pants by Tribal are made of superior fabrics such as stretchy bengaline and quality denim, resulting in some of the best-fitting pants you’ll ever own.

IBKUL

Though best known for their sun shirts and other sporty UPF50+ garb, IBKUL also makes excellent pants. Their styles run the gamut from performance leggings to dressier pull-on varieties, most of which are made from sun protective fabric. IBKUL’s pants can take you from the golf course to lunch and they’ll look fabulous the whole time.

POPULAR ITEMS

POPULAR ITEMS

ETHYL

Ethyl makes high-impact fashion jeans that will take your wardrobe to the next level! With the most unique embellishments around, these denim pants make quite the statement while still being comfortable and infinitely wearable.

RUBY RD

With Ruby Rd, it’s all about creating a coordinated look effortlessly. These Ruby Rd. clothing collections feature separates that match seamlessly so you’ll be able to put together a fantastic outfit in no time. Though this brand’s pants are made to be worn with their great tops, Ruby Rd’s pants are hardly an afterthought and are some of the most comfortable, fashion-forward bottoms that we carry.

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