How to wear flares (the grown-up way)

We need to talk about flares. Every since I posted the photograph (below) of yours truly in old Levi's and a tunic dress, it's been on my list of things to do. But now that list has it's own list, talking about trousers has taken some time. Anyhow. Enough of my work-life-blogging balance; at the Paris shows earlier this year Emmanuelle Alt switched from trademark super skinny to ankle-flapping jeans. And if the Queen of Lean has made the transition, then we need to consider proportion-changing too.

The best way to wear flares is to balance the wider leg shape with a neatly proportioned top half - so a tucked in shirt, biker jacket or simple t-shirt. Think seventies-style Jane Birkin and you're on the right track:

Photo: MiH

Ines rocks out with the Rolling Stones. Photo: Daily Mail

And as la Birkin proves, you can wear flats. Here are four of the best pairs of flares (some are bootcut but sssh):

MiH Bodycon Marrakech available HERE

J Brand Eva available HERE

The starter's flare: M&S kickflare available HERE

J Crew bootcut available HERE

Are you flapping about in flares?