Culottes Aren’t Just a Warm-Weather Trend—Here’s How to Style Them for Fall
They're surprisingly easy to wear.
Welcome to Put Together, Marie Claire's new fashion video series.
Every other week on Instagram and TikTok, Fashion Editor Lauren Tappan breaks down the season’s biggest trends—from celebrity style moments to runway standouts—and shows how to make them feel wearable in real life.
If you’re confused about culottes, you’re not alone. The style itself is a mystery to many, and the way it's pronounced (koo-lots) is even more puzzling. So, allow me to clarify things for you. Culottes are classified as mid-length trousers featuring a wide-leg construction, a split-skirt design, and structured fabric. While this pants trend has been around since the Victorian era, it recently experienced a rise in popularity on the Spring 2026 runways of Fforme, Max Mara, and Celine.
However, these cropped bottoms aren’t just for warm days—they’re a transitional staple that works just as well once the temperatures drop. The Fall 2026 collections of Zimmermann, Staud, and Maison Margiela made a convincing case, offering culottes in wool, leather, and flannel. Paired alongside cozy knits and insulated outerwear, the silhouette earns its place in any cold-weather wardrobe.
Following designers' lead, I’m styling culottes all fall long. Ahead, discover how I’m wearing them for every occasion this season, from upscale days in the office to casual errand runs.
For a Day in the Office
My coworkers will tell you that I take my nine-to-five outfits very seriously. Dressing for the office is one of my favorite things to do, and I love experimenting with new silhouettes. So, when I discovered the culottes trend, I swapped my traditional trousers for the pants pictured above. Teamed with a cashmere cardigan, a button-down, slingbacks, and my favorite laptop bag, this corporate uniform gets the job done.
For Running Errands
I’m the type of gal who likes to feel put together when I’m running around town. There’s nothing wrong with sweatpants and hoodies, but there’s something about tailored separates that encourage me to be more productive throughout the day. Whether I’m grabbing groceries or stopping by the hair salon, this look—composed of pleated culottes, a tailored trench, and glossy loafers—will help me check off my to-do list in style.
For Weekend Outings
This weekend, I’m heading upstate for a festive fall day in Beacon, and I’m planning to wear this exact outfit. Grounded in chic autumn staples—including a sturdy barn jacket, a suede bag, knee-high boots, and denim culottes—this look is perfect for a day of apple picking and cider tasting. I also love the warm color palette, rooted in shades of olive green, chocolate brown, and charcoal.
