How to recognise it
The waist is high and cinched with a belt or tie, and above it the fabric gathers and stands up a little. The legs are loose, straight or slightly tapered.
Where it comes from
These waists were popular in the 1980s and returned in 2016–2017 on trousers, skirts and shorts.
Who and when it suits
They mark the waist and suit the office, weekends and summer. Pair with a short or tucked-in top so the gathered waist shows.
Variations and look-alikes
They come with a tie, a leather belt or buttons, wide, straight or tapered, full or cropped. Skirts and shorts come with the same waist. They differ from other high-waisted trousers in the frill above the band. The deeper the frill, the more of a statement they become, while a narrow one works for the office.
How to style it
- Tuck in the top so the gathering shows.
- With loafers or sandals.
- Choose a soft fabric that gathers nicely.
- In summer, linen paperbag trousers with sandals and a plain T-shirt look effortless.
Similar styles
Frequently asked
01Why are they called paperbag pants?
The cinched, frilled waist looks like a paper bag scrunched shut.
02Who do paperbag pants suit?
Anyone who wants to mark the waist; choose a soft fabric so the frill stays small.