Taking the stand: The Harem Pant

Let’s start by reviewing the case: The Harem pant is defined as a baggy pant tapered at the ankle, with side flaps on the hip that button at the waist area. However an even better description of this style can be found in its street names, which include Droopy Drawers, Aladdin Pants, and Hammer Pants.

With origins in the Far East, the Harem pant has been around for centuries. The most recent surge in popularity for the Harem pant- Hammer Time (mid 80’s). Since then, we’ve seen this style pop up sporadically on the runways, but never to the extent seen on the Spring ‘09 runways. (Refer to Exhibit A)

Still not convinced this look will make it on our streets? Well, there’s at least one retail chain banking on it. Check out this image that appeared on Free People’s homepage recently. (Refer to Exhibit B)

And last but not least, take a look at some of these recent sightings in Europe. (Refer to Exhibit C)

Evidence:

Exhibit A

Exhibit B

Exhibit C

So what’s it going to be Pretty Committee, are Harem pants legit or do they need to quit?

Posh Hippie: The yellow harem pants by Alexander McQueen are maybe the ugliest thing I have seen all month. They look like the “after” photo of some poor jaundiced lady a year from her weight loss surgery. Gross. Anyway, a friend of mine bought me some white harem pants for a birthday party I had at a resort house two years ago. I had a blast running around the cabin in them because they made me feel silly and free. I never figured out if they were supposed to be worn in public, but I have not done so. The style doesn’t suit me at all. I think if you have an eccentric and artsy life, maybe this style will suit you. I can see gallery owners walking around wearing them. But don’t they already? If this goes mainstream, I don’t think it’ll be a good thing. People will use them as an excuse to quit going to the gym– a mumu from the Middle East.

Trendspotter: They just need to quit! This is a hard one because I feel like I’m making a big generalization by saying all Harem pants are ugly, but on the other hand, let’s be honest, the majority are. I think the ones on the Ralph Lauren model would be really cute in a less blinding fabric. I really don’t like the ones with the drop-crotch. As for the girls wearing them in Europe, all I can say is– they’re much braver than I.

Lady Lex: One phrase comes to mind…”Can’t touch this!” In my opinion, M.C. Hammer’s notorious lyrics are ironically prophetic, don’t you think? I think we should take it as an omen. I don’t know, maybe I just don’t get it?

Jess: As harem pants look decent on certain models, I am banking on this style to stay in the 80’s with MC Hammer.  I predict this fad will last all of two months, then on to something weirder and more outrageous… Props to those of you who are attempting this look, I for one will being  staying far far away!

Ashley: Call them what you will, but these will always be Hammer Pants to me. However, a quick browse online and I see so many different interpretations of the “Harem Pant” that I might actually wear a couple of them like the relaxed cutie from Free People. I’m hung on this one it could go either way depending on just whose Harem you’re hanging with.

Verdict: Time to quit!

XOXO,

The Gals of INPT