flat iron size guide

23 DIFFERENT TYPES OF PANTS: A GUIDE TO ELEGANT TROUSER STYLES

Stepping into the world of trousers can be a journey of discovery. From the timeless elegance of a tailored pair to the modern flair of on-trend cuts, there’s a trouser style waiting to be your new wardrobe staple. This guide will unveil 23 different types of pants, each offering a unique silhouette and level of sophistication. We’ll delve into the details of each style, helping you identify the perfect trouser to match your personal flair and elevate your everyday look. So, get ready to explore a world of trouser elegance – a world where comfort meets confidence, and style takes center stage.

WHAT ARE PANTS?

Pants, also known as trousers in British English, are lower-body garments that cover each leg separately. They come in a variety of lengths, styles, and materials, suited for different functions and occasions.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF PANTS

Pants, or trousers as they’re called in some parts of the world, have a surprisingly long history. They weren’t always a fashion staple, but rather a practical invention that transformed clothing forever. Let’s take a quick trip through time to see how pants went from equestrian essential to everyday attire.

Early Beginnings (3,000 BC): Believe it or not, the earliest evidence of pants dates back to around 3,000 BC in western China! These ancient trousers were made of wool, had wide crotches, and were likely worn for horseback riding.

Spreading the Word (5th Century BC): By the 5th century BC, pants were making their way westwards. We hear about them from Greek historians who described them as part of the attire for people like the Persians, who weren’t exactly considered fashionable by the Greeks and Romans at the time.

From Battlefield to Everyday Wear (Medieval Era): While initially seen as “barbarian” clothing, pants eventually found their way into European cultures, especially among soldiers. Their practicality for riding and fighting eventually won over even the most fashion-conscious. However, for a while, pants were often worn hidden beneath tunics.

Workwear Takes Center Stage (17th-19th Centuries): Sailors and laborers adopted pants for their durability, leading to styles like baggy galligaskins and the forerunners of modern jeans – denim trousers made for tough work.

The Rise of Modern Styles (20th Century Onwards): The 20th century saw a true explosion in trouser styles. From the classic tailoring of suit pants to the casual comfort of jeans and the ever-evolving world of fashion trends, pants became a versatile garment for everyone.

23 DIFFERENT TYPES OF PANTS

JEANS: EVERYDAY DENIM

No exploration of pants is comprehensive without acknowledging jeans. As a global phenomenon, jeans are perhaps the most widely embraced type of pants, crafted from denim. Originating as sturdy workwear for miners and cowboys, jeans have transformed into a fashion essential that transcends age, gender, and cultural distinctions.

STRAIGHT FIT: TIMELESSLY TAILORED

Straight pants are trousers that offer a sleek silhouette, maintaining a consistent shape from the waist to the ankle. They may feature added stretch for comfort or a looser fit to facilitate movement. Available in a range of colors and patterns, straight pants are a timeless and adaptable option ideal for formal settings.

DRESS PANTS: CLASSIC FORMALITY

Formal attire demands dress pants as the staple choice. Also referred to as suit trousers, dress pants are crafted from high-quality suiting materials, tailored for formal and semi-formal occasions. They are versatile, complementing suits or pairing effortlessly with dress shirts and jackets for a sophisticated appearance. Featuring front openings secured by zippers or buttons, dress pants, also known as slacks, come in diverse styles to accommodate various body types and personal tastes.

PLEATED PANTS: CLASSIC SOPHISTICATION

Pleated pants pay homage to classic tailoring with folds or pleats at the front waist, enhancing their design with depth and structure. They exude vintage charm while appealing to aficionados of timeless fashion.

TAPERED PANTS: A MODERN STYLE

Tapered pants are ideal for those with a keen sense of fashion, as they slim towards the ankle, offering a modern silhouette that is both flattering and stylish. Their tailored cut ensures a perfect fit for a variety of body shapes, striking a balance between comfort and trendiness.

WIDE-LEG PANTS: EFFORTLESS GRACE

Wide-leg pants are celebrated for their relaxed and elegant appearance, characterized by a spacious silhouette from the waist to the hem. They offer a breezy and stylish alternative to more fitted trousers. Pair them with heels and a blouse for a dressed-up ensemble, or opt for sandals and a tee for a casual look, showcasing their versatility from day to evening wear.

HIGH RISE PANTS: VINTAGE FLAIR MEETS MODERN COMFORT

High-rise pants, with their waistband positioned at or above the natural waistline, have experienced a resurgence reminiscent of vintage fashion trends. They not only elongate the legs and accentuate the waist but also offer a comfortable and flattering fit for a wide range of body shapes.

SLIM FIT PANTS: SLEEK & CONTEMPORARY ELEGANCE

Slim-fit pants are designed to conform to the wearer’s natural body contours without excessive tightness, creating a sleek and contemporary silhouette. Ideal for individuals who value both comfort and style, they effortlessly complement a variety of tops, enhancing any outfit with their modern aesthetic.

DRAWSTRING PANTS: LAID-BACK COMFORT

Drawstring pants prioritize comfort with their adjustable waistbands, offering wearers the flexibility to tailor their fit. Typically made from soft materials such as cotton or linen, they radiate a laid-back aura, perfect for relaxed days or holiday escapes. Evolving beyond their traditional casual perception, modern designs have elevated these pants to fashionable wardrobe essentials.

CHINOS: CASUAL SOPHISTICATION

Chinos are crafted from chino cloth, a lightweight cotton twill fabric known for its durability. Originally designed as military attire, they strike a harmonious blend of casual comfort and refined style. Their tapered fit makes them versatile for both professional environments and leisurely weekends.

CORDUROY PANTS: CLASSIC TEXTURE & WARMTH

Corduroy pants, characterized by their unique ribbed texture, add both style and warmth to any wardrobe. Typically associated with autumn and winter attire, corduroys exude a nostalgic charm. Apart from their visual appeal, the textured “wales” offer enhanced insulation, blending practicality with fashion-forward sensibilities.

CAPRIS: BREEZY ELEGANCE

Capris, also known as cropped pants, reach halfway between the ankle and knee, providing a stylish alternative to full-length trousers. They are admired for their relaxed yet elegant appearance, ideal for sunny days and versatile enough for various occasions.

Because they are shorter, capri pants let you display your shoes, whether you prefer ballet flats, sandals, or heels, which adds another layer of style to your outfit.

LEATHER PANTS: EDGY SOPHISTICATION

Leather pants are super stylish and edgy, often linked with rock stars and fashion lovers. Made from soft leather, these pants blend luxury with a rebellious vibe.

Their smooth, snug fit makes a strong impression, and their shiny finish adds a touch of elegance. Great for evenings out or when you want to stand out, leather pants are a bold choice for any wardrobe.

BAGGY PANTS: RELAXED & EFFORTLESSLY COOL

Baggy pants are known for their loose fit and plenty of fabric, giving off a relaxed and casual feel. They became popular in the hip-hop scene of the 1990s and early 2000s. These pants are all about comfort while still looking cool. Their roomy shape is the opposite of tight-fitting styles, making a bold fashion statement that stands out.

STIRRUP PANTS: ATHLETIC ELEGANCE

Stirrup pants are different because they have straps around the feet. They first came from horse riding, where they kept pants from moving up while riding. Now, stirrup pants are worn as everyday fashion, giving a smooth appearance and keeping the trousers securely in position.

FLARED PANTS: RETRO FASHION REVISITED

Flared pants, also called bell bottoms, have become popular again lately, bringing a 1970s and bohemian style to today’s fashion. They fit snugly at the waist, hips, and thighs, then widen from the knees down. Flared pants balance the body shape by adding volume below the knees, making legs look longer and more flattering.

CULOTTES: THE PERFECT BLEND OF STYLES

Culottes are a special mix of pants and shorts, giving you the benefits of both. They are wide-legged and reach either knee-length or ankle-length. When you stand still, they look like a skirt, flowing elegantly. Culottes are perfect if you like the comfort of pants but prefer the feminine and breezy feel of a skirt.

SAILOR PANTS: NAUTICAL CHARM 

Sailor pants, also known as sailor trousers, are a timeless style inspired by old-fashioned maritime fashion. They have a high waist and wide legs that start flaring out from the hips, giving a flattering and vintage appearance. Sailor pants usually come with decorative buttons or fastenings on the front, similar to the buttons on sailors’ uniforms from the past.

PALAZZO PANTS: MAKING A BOLD STATEMENT 

Palazzo pants are wide-legged trousers that look very elegant and sophisticated. They have a loose and flowing shape that feels very comfortable and allows your skin to breathe. Palazzo pants usually sit high on the waist and have wide legs that start wide from the waist and go all the way down to the ankles, which makes them look dramatic and eye-catching.

BOOTCUT PANTS: FLARED FINESSE

Bootcut pants have a unique shape: they narrow smoothly to the knee and then gently flare out towards the bottom. This design is made to elegantly cover boots. It’s different from straight-leg pants that stay the same width or skinny jeans that get narrower. Bootcut pants became very popular in the 1990s and early 2000s, and they’re still liked today.

HAREM PANTS: BOHEMIAN COMFORT

Harem pants are a special style that blends comfort and fashion seamlessly. They are loose and baggy, with gathers at the waist and ankles. Harem pants usually have elastic waistbands or drawstrings to keep the gathers in place, ensuring a comfy and flexible fit.

CARGO PANTS: UTILITARIAN CHIC

Cargo pants, also called combat pants or utility pants, are both useful and stylish for people who like practicality. They were first based on military uniforms and are known for having many pockets and a practical design. Cargo pants are great for those who want extra storage space or like a tough and adventurous style.

LEGGINGS: COMFORTABLE & VERSATILE BASICS 

Leggings are comfy, versatile, and stylish. They’re usually made from stretchy materials like spandex or knitted fabrics that fit closely to the body. This snug fit shows off curves nicely. Leggings are loved for their comfort and how easy they are to move in, which makes them great for everything from relaxing at home to exercising.

CONCLUSION

The world of trousers is vast and exciting, offering a multitude of options to elevate your personal style. With 23 unique silhouettes explored in this guide, you’ve discovered a range of possibilities, from the timeless charm of cigarette pants to the on-trend boldness of culottes. Remember, the perfect pair of trousers is the one that makes you feel confident and put-together. So, have fun experimenting, embrace your individuality, and let your trousers become the foundation for countless elegant looks!

15 BEST FLAT IRONS FOR THICK HAIR

Taming thick hair can be a battle, but with the right flat iron, you can achieve sleek, straight locks that last. In this guide, we’ll unveil the best flat irons designed to conquer thick hair, so you can ditch the frizz and achieve salon-worthy smoothness at home.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE RIGHT FLAT IRON FOR THICK HAIR

PLATE MATERIAL

Selecting the ideal flat iron tailored to your hair type can transform your styling routine. For those with dry, thin, or damaged hair, ceramic plates or ceramic-coated plates are recommended. These plates heat up evenly from within, gliding smoothly without pulling or causing frizz. Conversely, if you have thicker or curlier hair, titanium plates are the go-to option, capable of reaching high temperatures and distributing heat evenly. Tourmaline is another excellent choice, enhancing ceramic plates for seamless gliding while reducing tension and minimizing damage. Hence, it’s essential to choose your plate material wisely to suit your hair’s unique needs.

TEMPERATURE SETTINGS

Temperature settings play a crucial role when using hot tools on thick or textured hair. Look for flat irons with higher temperature settings to effectively smooth and style coarse strands. Adjustable and precise heat settings are essential to avoid damage from excessive heat exposure. Starting with a lower heat setting and gradually increasing it is recommended to prevent potential hair damage. Finding the right temperature balance is key to achieving optimal styling results while protecting your hair.

PLATE SIZE

Consider the plate size when shopping for a flat iron for thick hair. Wider plates, typically ranging from 1.5 to 2.5 inches, cover more surface area for quicker and more efficient styling. Larger plates ensure superior heat distribution, reducing the risk of damage from hot spots. Opting for broader plates is especially beneficial for those with thicker hair, allowing for flawless, smooth results without subjecting your strands to excessive heat.

ADDITIONAL FEATURES

When choosing the best flat iron for thick hair, consider additional features that can enhance your styling experience. A swivel cord prevents tangling and makes maneuvering effortless, ensuring every hair section receives the necessary heat treatment. An auto shut-off function is essential for safety, automatically turning off the flat iron after a period of inactivity to minimize fire hazards or burns. Opting for a model with universal voltage ensures consistent heat performance while traveling internationally, catering to different voltage systems in various countries and ensuring effective styling results wherever you go.

TOP FLAT IRONS FOR THICK HAIR

BABYLISS PRO NANO TITANIUM OPTIMA 3000 1.25″ FLAT IRON WITH TITANIUM PLATES

The BABYLISS PRO Nano Titanium Optima 3000 is the best flat iron for both thick and fine hair. Its titanium plates heat up quickly and stay warm for efficient straightening. You can also use it to create waves or curls easily.

Safety is essential with this flat iron. It has silicone tips to protect your hair, and there’s a special attachment that works like a curling iron, perfect for making curls or waves. Plus, it has five heat settings from 300 to 465 degrees Fahrenheit, so you can choose the right temperature for your hair type. It’s a great choice for taming thick hair because of its versatility and safety features.

T3 LUCEA FLAT IRON

T3’s Lucea flat iron has received enthusiastic praise for its ability to effortlessly transform thick hair into smooth, glossy, straight strands with just one pass. Engineered with wider ceramic plates measuring one-and-a-half inches, it’s specifically tailored to tackle the challenges of thick hair without causing breakage. Its integrated microchip technology oversees rapid start-up, ensures even heating across the plates, and maintains stability across its nine temperature settings.

With a maximum temperature of 410 degrees Fahrenheit and ceramic plates, it offers optimal heat for effective styling. The inclusion of an auto shut-off feature enhances safety, while the nine heat settings cater to various hair types and preferences. Designed with the needs of thick, curly, and voluminous hair in mind, its microchip technology guarantees precise heat control and uniform heat distribution throughout the tool. Additionally, its 360-degree 8-foot swivel cord enhances maneuverability during styling sessions.

HSI PROFESSIONAL CERAMIC TOURMALINE IONIC FLAT IRON

The HSI Professional Ceramic Tourmaline Ionic Flat Iron stands out as an excellent option for those seeking a budget-friendly yet high-performing hair straightener. It comes with valuable accessories like a heat protective glove and argan oil, adding further value to its affordable price point. Users have praised its performance, reflected in its high ratings on Amazon.

Equipped with multiple heat settings and the ability to create both straight and wavy styles, this flat iron offers versatility comparable to more expensive models. However, some users have noted that the LCD screen can be confusing when powering down, presenting a minor drawback to an otherwise commendable device.

Despite this minor issue, the HSI Professional Ceramic Tourmaline Ionic Flat Iron stands out as a top choice on Amazon, offering a balance of affordability and performance that makes it a standout option for users seeking quality styling results without breaking the bank.

CHI LAVA 2.0 FLAT IRON

If you have wavy hair that tends to frizz easily, then Drybar’s flat iron might be the perfect solution for you. This ergonomic straightener features ionic technology to fight frizz and 0.5-inch titanium plates that heat up to 450 degrees Fahrenheit. The separate temperature controls for each plate allow for customized styling to minimize damage.

Despite the smaller plate size, which may seem like a drawback for straightening speed, you only need one or two passes to achieve your desired look.  This flat iron also doubles as a curling iron thanks to its rounded plates, giving you the option to add waves or movement to your hair after straightening. While the price tag might be a bit steep at $190, this versatile tool offers two styling options in one and boasts a convenient, compact design that’s perfect for travel.

CHI ORIGINAL CERAMIC HAIR STRAIGHTENER

The Chi Original Ceramic Hair Straightener offers a compelling combination of features that make it a strong contender for anyone in need of a reliable styling tool. Boasting ceramic plates, it ensures even heat distribution, safeguarding against potential hair damage, particularly beneficial for those with color-treated or heat-sensitive hair. Its adjustable heat settings, reaching up to 400°F (204°C), provide versatility in styling while minimizing the risk of heat-related harm. The straightforward design simplifies the styling process, catering to both novices and seasoned users alike. Moreover, its budget-friendly price point makes it an attractive option compared to pricier alternatives, offering quality performance without breaking the bank.

DRYBAR RESERVE DUAL-PLATE STYLING IRON

Eva NYC introduces a specialized flat iron tailored for individuals with fine, color-treated, or delicate hair, offering a gentler alternative to high-heat styling. Crafted with ceramic plates, it ensures even heat distribution, safeguarding fragile strands from potential damage caused by hot spots. The adjustable heat settings, spanning from 200°F to 450°F, provide flexibility in styling while minimizing the risk of heat-induced harm. Additionally, the flat iron emits negative ions as it glides through the hair, smoothing the cuticle and reducing frizz for a healthy, shiny finish. Its compact 1.25-inch plate size facilitates easy maneuverability, especially for styling shorter hair sections. However, some users have noted challenges with adjusting the temperature dial, and the floral print design may not appeal to everyone’s aesthetic preferences.

CONAIR THE KNOT DR. ALL-IN-ONE SMOOTHING DRYER BRUSH, HAIR DRYER & HOT AIR BRUSH

With a height of just eight inches, this compact flat iron has earned nearly four thousand enthusiastic reviews across various online platforms. Its half-inch ceramic plates can reach temperatures up to 350 degrees Fahrenheit, making it versatile for adding volume at the roots, straightening hair, or creating waves. One of its standout features is its convenient size, perfect for slipping into your travel tote alongside your makeup essentials for your next journey.

In terms of specifications, it boasts a fixed temperature of 350 degrees Fahrenheit and utilizes ceramic plates measuring 0.5 inches. While it lacks an auto shut-off feature, it compensates with a power indicator light, a 6-foot cord, and dual voltage capabilities, ensuring practicality and adaptability for travelers.

Priced at $26.99 upon publication, this flat iron has garnered praise for its ease of use and lightweight design. However, it’s worth noting that it offers only one heat setting, which may be a limitation for users with specific styling preferences or hair types.

GHD PLATINUM+ STYLER

The Dyson Airstrait Straightener is new but already popular for its great performance. It’s special because it uses airflow to help style hair. It can dry and straighten your hair at the same time, saving you from using two different tools.

This straightener is smart too. It keeps track of how hot it’s getting and makes sure it doesn’t get too hot by checking every 30 seconds. It also fights frizz and keeps hair looking healthy by using negative ions. You can do more than just straighten your hair with it. You can use it to add volume by using it on the roots. It’s also easy to use with its different temperature options and cordless design. Plus, it turns off by itself when you’re not using it, which is handy.

People who have it say they can style their hair in just 10-15 minutes, which is super quick. Even though it’s a bit expensive, it’s worth it for how well it works and how easy it is to use.

BEACHWAVER CO. CATWALK COÁT PRO CERAMIC FLAT IRON

If your hair is damaged but you still want it to look smooth and straight, you might find the YA-MAN flat iron helpful. It’s different from regular flat irons because it uses red light therapy and moisture pulse technology, which are gentle on dry and damaged hair. Instead of just using high heat like most flat irons, this one is gentler and helps keep your hair moisturized while straightening it in just one go. The plates on the flat iron spread the heat evenly, and they’re designed to not snag or pull on your hair. It costs $149, but it’s worth it if you want to take care of your damaged hair. Plus, it can work anywhere in the world and has a safety shut-off feature, which is handy for traveling.

BED HEAD PIXIE1/2 TOURMALINE + CERAMIC FLAT IRON TURQUOISE

The Beachwaver flat iron is popular because it combines titanium and ceramic plates, making it great for straightening curly hair. The titanium spreads heat evenly, while ceramic plates gently straighten hair without causing damage. It has three heat settings to protect your hair from getting too hot. Plus, the long cord makes it easy to reach all parts of your hair. It can get as hot as 450 degrees and has a 1-inch plate size. It also has features like an automatic shut-off after 30 minutes and an LCD display to show the temperature. While it’s easy to use and switch between temperatures, some people might find it pricey.

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR THICK HAIR WHEN USING FLAT IRON

Thick hair is beautiful, but it can also present a challenge when it comes to straightening.  Here are some tips and tricks to help you achieve sleek, frizz-free locks with your flat iron:

Prep is Key:  Don’t underestimate the power of prepping your hair for heat styling.  Start by washing and conditioning your hair with products designed for thick hair.  Once your hair is towel-dried, apply a heat protectant spray to shield your strands from heat damage.

Blow Drying Makes a Difference:  For the smoothest results, blow dry your hair partially before flat ironing. Use a round brush to pull your hair taut as you dry, which will help to pre-straighten it and make the flat ironing process easier.

Sectioning is Your Friend:  Thick hair requires a section-by-section approach.  Divide your hair into manageable sections using clips. This will ensure you don’t accidentally miss any strands and will prevent you from overheating a single section.

Thicker Plates, Faster Results:  For thick hair, wider flat iron plates are your best friend.  Opt for plates that are at least 1.5 inches wide. Wider plates allow you to straighten larger sections of hair at once, minimizing straightening time and heat exposure.

Lower Temperature, Higher Success:  Thick hair can typically handle higher heat settings, but it’s always better to start with a lower temperature and gradually increase it if needed. This helps to prevent heat damage and protects the health of your hair.

Multiple Passes with Care:  While thicker hair might require multiple passes with the flat iron to achieve the desired straightness, avoid going over the same section repeatedly.  Each pass should be slow and controlled to minimize heat damage.

Ionic Technology for the Win:  Consider a flat iron with ionic technology. Ionic technology emits negative ions that help to neutralize positive ions in the hair, reducing frizz and static and leaving your hair smoother and shinier.

Cooling Down is Crucial:  Once you’ve finished straightening your hair, let it cool down completely before styling it further. This allows the hair cuticle to close properly and helps to lock in the straight style.

CONCLUSION

Keep in mind that finding the perfect flat iron depends on factors like your hair type, styling choices, and budget. Additionally, regular clean your flat iron after use is crucial. With the guidance provided, mastering the technique of flat ironing thick hair becomes achievable, resulting in the smooth, frizz-free look you desire. Embrace the process with confidence and take control of your mane!