Sleek and flowing, tight and show-stopping, stylish trousers are being worn for special occasions. Formal trousers — also called “party pants” — are the hottest thing in holiday wear, whether it be an intimate gathering or all-out gala.

        Cincinnati native Yolanda Braddy, costume designer for two UPN hit shows, Moesha and The Parkers, calls party pants a longtime staple.

        “They complement any evening look,” says Ms. Braddy, a Reading High graduate. “They're common but simple, classic rather than just trendy. Formal trousers are much more sexy today. For my shows, I've designed lace pants with a nude underlining. They really look good with stilettos. Trousers are a comfortable, classic look I expect to be popular for years to come.”

Formal trousers or “party pants” — are the hottest thing in holiday wear. | ZOOM |

        “I like to wear party pants,” says symphony violinist Heidi Yenney of Clifton, who also wears dress trousers during performances. “I have a pair of copper-colored Gucci pants that I like to wear with a sparkly top or a nice blazer.”

        Although women's styles have become more feminine, pants still offer the freedom to be comfortable, yet bold.

        “Clothing in general has become more casual,” says Susan Sommers, executive vice president and editor-in-chief of Alight.com, a Web site for women who wear size 14 and up.

        “America has always been known for wearing sportswear, so wearing a dressed-up casual item like trousers is perfect. They're comfortable, stylish and dressy. We're selling silk layered chiffon pants that make plus-size women look amazing.”

FOR EVERY BODY

Trousers are considered the great equalizer because of their versatility to fit women of any body size or height.     April Wilkins of Parisian says party pants can be work successfully by any size or age.     “They can hide flaws or accentuate curves,” she says.     Some tips:     • Pants called hipsters, worn low on the hips, are mainly for the younger set or those who have the body for it.     • Almost anybody can wear the tuxedo-look pants with either a plain front or with pockets.     “Larger sizes often come with elastic waistbands,” says Ms. Wilkins. The special feature combines style and comfort.

        Party pants come in tame shades — black, chocolate and champagne — and more wild hues such as glittering gold, sizzling red and electric blue. They also come in a variety of fabrics and finishes.

        “I've seen them in the popular animal prints and skins,” says Ms. Sommers, “like python with another print overlay. Fabrics like chiffon and tulle are very popular. They create an elegant, flowing sophistication for the wearer.”

        Other innovative fabrics are also a hit for evening wear.

        “Pleather is a great addition, says Ms. Sommers. “It makes the leather look affordable for everyone, and the technology makes it a dead ringer.”

        Coated cotton is another option. A big hit with teens is a shiny look for after-five created by manufacturers.

        Party pants can be topped with just about anything.

        “These pants go great with tank tops,” says Parisian spokeswoman April Wilkins.

        “Try pairing (pants) with tops of a different texture, like wearing sequin party pants with a bulky sweater, like cashmere, for a sophisticated look. You can even use a pashmina shawl over the tank top and secure it with a big pin or flower.”

        Fun combinations from Alight.com include a black satin tank top with party pants studded with iridescent beading, a brightly colored bulky knit sweater with gold sequined pants and gold silk shantung ankle pants with a gold crocheted shell.

        Lots of party pants are accented with sequins, beading or metal threads. That theme can carry over to a flashy pair of black fabric slides or pumps with elaborate decoration.

        “These pants are perfect for anyone,” says Ms. Wilkins. “It's all in how you wear them.”
       

Hot pants for the holidays
CSO matches Mahler on every other step
Trio intends to be together forever
KNIPPENBERG: Ex-Rockette expects big kick out of Christmas show
Play me a song, banjo man
Nobel-winning writer to discuss art, politics
Dozen pigs return for display, sale
Get to it