Flares return in 2026 as high-profile women revive the 70s trouser

Flares have re-emerged in womenswear in 2026, driven in part by high-profile women and a spike in searches: resale app Depop reported a 30% increase in searches for the style this month. TV presenter Claudia Winkleman wore a suit with flares that pooled over her shoes on The Traitors, and Hailey Bieber was photographed wearing flared trousers in LA.

The shape, first popularised in the 70s and briefly revisited five years ago, is being framed by women the piece describes as "alpha". Jennifer Lopez and Victoria Beckham regularly wear flares, often with a blouse or T‑shirt tucked in, and Beckham chose a similar outfit in her recent Netflix documentary.

Donatella Versace has also been pictured wearing flares with stilettos for her post-show bow. Voices quoted in the article argue the current moment treats flares as a more modern, dressy option rather than boho chic. Sinead McKeefry, Winkleman's stylist, said the Essentiel Antwerp suit had a "chicness" and was "a very modern take on the flare." Daniel Rogers, fashion news editor at Vogue, said he thinks "these are about looking smart and polished, and being more more dressy with it," and that footwear — "a platform, or a spiky pointed stiletto peeking out from the bottom" — is central to the look.

Essentiel Antwerp co-founder Inge Onsea called them "the perfect in-between," combining a slim definition with the ease of a wider cut.

Key Topics

Culture, Flares, Claudia Winkleman, Hailey Bieber, Victoria Beckham, Depop