Ask Angie and all: Where to Crop?

Angie, thank you so much for your thoughts when you have time!!  I hate to disturb your weekend, and will not be taking these to the seamstress until Tuesday morning because we have a holiday here tomorrow. 

That said, I am very nervous about these pants and where/ how to hem. I feel quite clueless about proportions. 

Also, please excuse all the folds and bunches. They are the very devil to pin. They are on the loose/ baggy side up top (except the waist) but are quite tapered towards the bottom and pinning messes with the way they hang -- you just can't really tell how they will look! (There's a lining, too, and that complicates things further). 

The shorter length is about 5.5 inches higher. The longer length is maybe 1.5 or 2 inches (not sure) but at any rate is a couple of inches above my ankle, which is where they seem to be showing them these days and where several people suggested I try pinning. 

There were also a number of suggestions that I have these pants further tapered. That would mean tapering at the top, because there is no way to make them narrower (and still fit me) in the calf area. 

The thing is, they do not have any stretch, and I'm not sure how they would look or feel if they were a whole lot narrower. However, I'm willing to consider that if it seems like the best idea. I don't want to go looking 15 years out of date. For myself, I quite like the look and feel of baggy pants. But maybe these look just too dated? 

Also, these are the RW&Co. shoes I bought yesterday. Will they pass muster? 

Thank you all for your thoughts and help on this. 


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52 Comments

  • replied 10 years ago

    Definitely not Angie:) I do prefer the longer length because the pants would look dressier and more evening like. Also, that is the length most women sport on cropped pants where I live, in more proffesional settings, so I did fully adjust the look. I think a litlle tapering would work nicely, but don't go too tapered, as to leave them super tailored. You want the roomier fit of the blazer to continue with the pants.
    I don't find them leg shortening because of the light shoes, which by the way are super fab!
    However, I think the length that Angie recommends the most is the shorter.
    Not much help, eh?

  • Angie replied 10 years ago
    I'm here. Glad I caught you as I am about to log off till tomorrow.

    Suz, no need to taper - I hear you on the lack of stretch and discomfort.

    With the right shoes - LOW contrast - the picture changes considerably. I like both lengths equally, but the longer is dressier, so lets go with that length. 3 inches above the top of the ankle bone :)
  • krishnidoux replied 10 years ago
    Longer! Tapered! A good seamstress will advise you how and what is possible. Maybe a slit at the hem to release at the calf area. Which I see already exists. Hmmm. Tough call. 
  • replied 10 years ago

    Honestly, both lengths look good to me, and I think the shoes are great! You are going to stand out in an awesome way because you are going to be wearing something different that looks amazing on you. Your comfort in this suit is immediately apparent -- with the dress you looked like you were wearing a costume!

  • krishnidoux replied 10 years ago
    We need to see this with heels.
  • Ingunn replied 10 years ago
    Suz, you will make a true statement in this suit, in the best way possible! I prefer the longer length for this occasion. I also think the shoes are super, and an excellent choice.
  • Suz replied 10 years ago
    Krish, these are the heels!! Well, unless they are no good. But this is more or less what I had in mind. 

    I really don't want a super tight pant look at all - I just don't think it would be right for me or for the occasion. If the pants were low waisted and a bit slouchy, I would be more tempted to taper in the leg. But these are high waisted pants. Somehow I feel there's a danger in ending up with a dog's breakfast neither here nor there look if I try to pretend they are skinnies. 


  • Suz replied 10 years ago
    Thank you, Angie, and all for weighing in on this - I so appreciate it. It does sound like the consensus is for longer, which will be an easier alteration (thank goodness). 
  • krishnidoux replied 10 years ago
    Sorry Suz, for some reason I was seeing flats! Something's wrong with my eyes I think!!! 
    How about a length like in pic 3, no tapering, and top tucked with an obi type belt?
  • missvee replied 10 years ago

    I think you are going to look smashing in this outfit. Angie's advice is spot on (as it always is...) The shoes are great too. Have you finalized your handbag and top yet? Sorry if I've missed that thread.

  • Suz replied 10 years ago
    I could see tucking with an obi belt, Krish. I'd need to find a cummerbund type one in off white or cream, I think. Because the top will be very plain (i hope...assuming i find it -- off white silk shell.) 

    Miss Vee -- I have a bag, (my mother's gold clutch) but don't have my top sorted yet. Still looking!! 

    Mr. Suz thinks the shoes look awfully cheap in person. I fear he is right. But they are more comfortable than the pricey ones. 
  • replied 10 years ago

    I think comfy is worth the most really -- how many people are going to be staring at your feet? Will you try the Bella Vita ones from Amazon?

  • Suz replied 10 years ago
    The trouble with the Bella Vitas is that they are not sold by Amazon proper, but by a seller. So if they don't work, returns are going to be a big pain. And pumps almost NEVER work for me -- seriously -- I have such a hard time with them because of my narrow heel. I love the Bella Vitas and trust Angie, but shoe fit is so personal, you know? 
  • Sarah A replied 10 years ago
    I think the shoes have a really nice shape and no one will be on their hand and knees examining the construction of them IFKWIM. You are so making me regret purging a similar pair of pants/jacket I had in black shangtung last summer!!!! The fuschia makes the whole outfit for sure though. I think the cream cumberbund would be an easy find at a decent menswear store (or even one that caters to prom goers!) And would allow you to disguise the hieight of the pant waistband if you are concerned about it. Oh... and the longer pant :)
  • Vix replied 10 years ago
    Hi Suz --

    I've been following along here and there re wearing this for your role as one of the Gala's guest stars and think you'll have so much fun in your choice! 

    You may recall I was a big fan of the bargain purchase and really think it's one of those "undateable" outfits to most. Is it modern? 60s Retro? 90s Back of closet? That's too hard to pin down for the average person -- so whatever you decide about shoes/crop length/pairings I encourage you to relax into flaunting this bold and the beautiful look.

    That said, I do have opinions. ;) Given the material and pairing with the blazer I prefer the longest hem length/crop shown in #3.

    I like the idea of going with a very, very simple top -- preferably fairly matte and light in color. Not sure if the one shown is an example or "the" one but it looks good from here.

    I'm not a shoe person and have PITA (feet?) feet, so I think these are fine despite Mr Suz's doubts. BUT I also think you could explore a strappy sandal or even more of dressy wedge/cage look...and that since you have a lot of shine with the suit you don't need to limit yourself to metallics. [Though as someone with a nearly all-metallic sandal situation it pains me to type that!]

  • Suz replied 10 years ago
    LOL, Vix...I was thinking of your dye experiments....

    Okay. I will continue to keep my eyes peeled on the shoe front but keep these in reserve. They DO stink up the closet, I must say!!

    Pants are going to be the longer length. 

    Top is..well, an open question so far. What I have on is just a cami and not serviceable as a top. But I am looking for the plainest, simplest thing I can find. A non shiny silk, preferably. 

    Thanks, all!!
  • catgirl replied 10 years ago
    I think longer will be more formal and versatile, but whatever you do you will look amazing!
  • replied 10 years ago

    Top: Check Banana republic, Ann taylor and Ann taylor loft. They had a bunch of shells.

  • Diana replied 10 years ago

    I like both lengths. Longer one is fab with heels. And I have to say I love the idea of the fuchsia suit for the gala!

    Re: the shoes. I know your feet are like mine in that they are narrow at the heel so pumps don't stay on. I wonder if you'd like my wedding shoes, the Naturalizer Prissy sandals. They are best for slightly narrower feet though, but they don't bug my bunion. I have them in silver ( the wedding shoes) and black. I got through about 6 hours of wedding stuff (including tramping around in some fields for photos) before changing shoes; it would have been fine the whole night had I just been a guest. They are real leather and very reasonably priced.

    Eta: link. Can you buy from USA amazon? I can't find them on amazon.ca
    http://www.amazon.com/Naturali.....B000MQ6LRI

  • Vicki replied 10 years ago
    I love the longer length in 2 and 3 and there is that cute little slit, too, which draws attention to your nice-looking ankles!  This is going to be a lovely outfit, in one of your signature colors, Suz!  On to the tailor!
  • Suz replied 10 years ago
    Thanks, all! Vicki, you are too sweet. 

    Diana, you are amazing - can't believe you popped on here. Did you see that I tried the dress you recommended? It looked really good, too -- just not "me," you know? I was so grateful for your help. I'm going to check out the shoes, too. Although it might be tough to get past that name. "Prissy." Oy!!

    Zap, thank you! The AT one might be on its way to me; a kind YLF friend is getting it in the US so I don't have to pay the unbelievable shipping rates that Fifty-One charges ($25 for a single blouse) not to mention duties. The BR ones all have some detailing that won't work too well (e.g. epaulets) although there's a keyhole one that might work in a pinch and at least I know I could get it in time. 

    YLF is the BEST!!!
  • replied 10 years ago

    I just had a peek and pewter and taupe is sold by Amazon.com, plus navy, black, etc. too bad not gold!

  • krishnidoux replied 10 years ago
    Suz... let's think laterally here. How about this?
    http://shop.lululemon.com/prod.....omen-tanks
    Don't laugh! I think it would look very nice under the jacket.
  • krishnidoux replied 10 years ago
    Or this!
    http://shop.lululemon.com/prod.....omen-tanks
  • Rambling Ann replied 10 years ago
    I can't recall you ever wearing this color, but a shell/petal pink top would be a little less contrasty than white/off-white. Or a soft grey. Either would really show off some goldtoned baubles. There will be baubles and sparklies, right? 
  • Suz replied 10 years ago
    Krish, I like the tanks! But sadly, I need something with a higher neckline due to my figure flattery concerns. Long neck, short hair, small boobs, and a chest that is now on the bony side. Not as extreme as some, but not my best feature, shall we say!  I used to wear V necks and deep U necks as a younger woman and they looked fine (or I thought they did, LOL), but as I age I think they are less than flattering. A very narrow V that isn't deep can look nice on me, but wouldn't be the right shape under the jacket. 
  • Suz replied 10 years ago
    Ann, those would be lovely colours for a top, too. I do wear grey and love it. So I will keep eyes peeled for that as well. 

    As for baubles, I'm going to keep that pretty simple, actually. I've got a lot of shine going on in the outfit. So I'll wear earrings of some kind, a cuff (probably) and that's it. Again, this is true to my normal style -- I don't wear much jewellery as a rule and feel quite "costumed" in it -- even though I admire it a whole lot on other women and sometimes WISH I enjoyed wearing it more! 
  • replied 10 years ago

    Suz, maybe get someone to run you up a Sorbetto top? The pattern is free and they are very easy to make. There are lots of variants that people have posted online.

    e.g. Neckline changes
    Sleeves, taking out the pleat etc.

    http://www.coletterie.com/cole.....rbetto-top

  • Rambling Ann replied 10 years ago
    Eileen Fisher grey tank, a little darker than I was thinking, probably not right neckline.
    http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/ei.....s-_-3_21_A

    and a completely orthogonal idea, a print. Maybe for a different outing with the fushia suit
    http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/vi.....ategory-pe

    light grey, boatneck
    http://shop.nordstrom.com/S/vi.....ntextualca

    if you can't wear baubles this night, when? Don't mind me, I dress like a parrot.
  • Lyn D. replied 10 years ago
    Just chiming -in to say I remember admiring your fushia suit when you first found it. Sometimes we just need a special occasion to wear a unique outfit like this.
    You are going to SHINE!
  • Parsley replied 10 years ago
    Would something like this be too much shimmer?
     I suppose Eileen Fisher is available near you? I know her stuff runs big, so maybe it wouldn't work.

    http://www.saksfifthavenue.com.....38;PRODUCT
  • Caro in Oz replied 10 years ago
    I'm so glad Angie approves of the longer length. I think it will be more versatile as it's more classic. I think you look fantastic Suz:)

    The shoes look good for here but if Mr Suz thinks the shoes look cheap I'd trust him & be looking hard for another pair. Imo cheap looking shoes will ruin the punch this outfit has - hope you don't mind me saying.
  • Suz replied 10 years ago
    Caro, I absolutely don't mind your saying that. I'm keeping them in reserve but hanging onto the bill and hoping I can do better. Keep in mind that Mr. Suz doesn't have a magpie gene (which he freely admits) so pretty much ANYTHING shiny looks cheap to him. But in this case I fear he has a point! On the other hand, to be completely honest, they do not look any cheaper than the Ann Klein ones I tried, that were twice the price in my store (though not online in the US, where they were super cheap, but let's. NOT. Go. There. 

    Marcy, I love that top...but it is too low a neckline for me. I need something with a jewel or crew neck. I think it's too much sparkle as well. I am generally quite overwhelmed/ outsized in Eileen Fisher stuff although not on absolutely every item; I do own a shirt by her that works. 

    Thank you, Lyn - I am amazed you remember when I bought the suit! 
  • replied 10 years ago

    Suz, if the shoes look cheap, that is going to bring the whole thing down. I hope you find something better. Sad because they look awesome.

    ETA: Why do I think that way? Because this look depends a lot on how you style it, so it looks current, as opposed to the shiny suit of the 80's worn by "the ladies who lunch". You need a little fun thrown in with shoes and accessories. I love the pics Krish added below.

    Also, I totally agree with a higher end shoe, if budget allows. I think one of the items where you can see your money's worth is shoes. An extra $40 - $50 bucks go a long way.

  • Caro in Oz replied 10 years ago
    Ah - I understand. Don't show him my silver boots then :)
  • Jaime replied 10 years ago
    Suz I am not sure I ever commented on your original post showing this suit (it was just so long by then!) but I love this idea and think you will look positively smashing! I like the longer length with the little side slits if possible and I think most everyone has agreed. So I will focus on the shoes. I happen to think Mr. Suz has excellent taste. The shoes look great in the photo but I would question him about what is bothering him - is it the shine or something else? I don't want you to de-elevate (is that a thing) a fantastic, but attention getting, outfit with less than stellar shoes. Especially when the suit is vintage and bright I think it is important to have top rate shoes. Of course I am shoe obsessed, so please feel free to dismiss the ravings of a shoe maniac. I have full confidence you will be belle of the ball!
  • Suz replied 10 years ago
    Shevia, I hear you. And I agree. I am really on the fence about these. Truly, they do not look cheaper than the AK ones I tried (those ones had glitter) ...but let's just say that I am on the lookout for another, better quality pair as well. I can return these if I find something better. In the meantime, at least I will have something to put on my feet if I don't find anything! And my feet won't hurt if I wear them. 
  • Deborah replied 10 years ago
    Suz, I actually like the orginal length, but I did note Angie's comment and I would defer to her wisdom...I am glad that she prefers the longer crop as I agree it is more dressy and sophisticated.  You are going to 'knock em dead' a the event.
  • annaj replied 10 years ago
    What an amazing suit Suz! I love it!!

    I find it interesting hearing people's preferred trouser length. My personal preference is for the longer length, however, I was "taught" by one of our local stylists that the shorter length is the "correct" length. I think what Angie said about the shorter length being more casual is absolutely on the mark - and the reason that I generally prefer that length. 

    Can't wait to hear/see you wear this!! Love it!!
  • Caro in Oz replied 10 years ago
    http://www.shoeme.ca/collectio.....-annette-5

    Suz, Have you seen these? Sorry can't remember if you have a narrow foot or not - but they have a buckle so can be adjusted to stay on :)
  • CocoLion replied 10 years ago
    I would actually like to see these even longer than the length you have seen, so you have some options.  You could roll them for a shorter, sassy look.  (When wearing for less formal occasions without the jacket.)
  • krishnidoux replied 10 years ago
    Suz, here are a few pics from celebrities in cropped pant suits on the red carpet... maybe the way they styled it might be of inspiration.

     ... Looking at these, I wonder if what you really need to do isn't to find yourself a very very sexy, chic and comfortable high heeled shoe/sandal, even if it means shelling the big, big bucks for it. Because they would multiply your wardrobe possibilities in terms of formal wear, without having to buy a dress or a suit in the future. If they are comfortable, which is possible with higher end brands. 
  • Lantana replied 10 years ago

    Joining the flood of replies,Suz because I missed applauding your original purchase. I was struck then by how luminous your eyes are in this colour and fabric.
    I am a small almost lone voice pleading to conserve this divine fabric. It is so beautiful and the amount of fabric in the legs balances that in the upper body and one day you might want them to be full length.
    Just my thoughts.
    Sigh.

  • Inge replied 10 years ago
    Chiming in very late, but I just wanted to say that I'm in awe of your party outfit planning stamina, Suz!! And I love your fuchsia suit at the longer length. You are going to be the belle of the ball!-)

    As far as tops are concerned, here are a few more ideas:

    http://www.massimodutti.com/we.....108502/CAM

    http://www.anntaylor.com/ann/p.....308395?col

    http://www.anntaylor.com/ann/p.....86526?colo

    http://www.zara.com/webapp/wcs.....TOP+WITH+S

    http://www.zara.com/webapp/wcs.....COMBINED+J

    http://www.jcrew.com/womens_ca...../38396.jsp

    http://www.brooksbrothers.com/....._ShopStyle

    http://www.brooksbrothers.com/.....038;conten

    http://www.vincecamuto.com/pro.....louse.html

    http://www.vincecamuto.com/pro.....louse.html

    http://shop.mango.com/CA/p0/ma.....38;s=prend
    (I think the silver metallic would look very smart and elegant too)

  • merwoman replied 10 years ago
    Very late to add my thoughts - but YES to this pantsuit and YES to the longer length. I know that you are having a hard time with what topper to wear underneath - I prefer your tuxedo shirt to the shell/cami you are wearing. Two reasons - I like the white next to your face for "brightening" impact (not that you need help in that dept) as well - the scoop neck dresses down the outfit.I like the tuxedo shirt or something similar for providing more formal tone - and furthering that lovely adrogynous  look you do so well. 
  • Isis replied 10 years ago
    I love the suit!  

    I also prefer the original length.  (But what do I know?) 
  • Suz replied 10 years ago
    Thank you SO much, everyone. I am so grateful for your thoughts, opinions, and suggestions here! 

    Isis, Lantana, AnnaJ, Deborah  -- very interesting that you like the original length. I think it really does need to be brought up at least a little because at the current length it is neither here nor there, if you know what I mean. Not truly full length but not exactly cropped length either. 

    Denise -- I think that probably answers your suggestion as well. Sadly, I can't really roll them up (and wouldn't ever be able to)  -- they are too tapered in the calf for me to do that. This is a frequent problem for me with tapered pants; my calves are not skinny. For example, when I take my Camerons off, I often have to pull them inside out because they stick on the calf. Takes some shrugging to get them off down there. These pants are lined (and the lining is obviously more narrow than the pant itself) which complicates things.

    Merwoman, interesting that you like the tux shirt. You may be the lone vote for that one. I quite like the look, too, but think I will be physically more comfortable in a shell (since I don't plan to remove the jacket) and the right one shouldn't dress it down. But luckily I have the tux shirt in reserve. 

    Inge, you are a complete wonder and shopping genius. You have found a number of things that I had not located in a full day's searching yesterday. Even better -- I have already ordered a few of your suggestions following my own hunt! Yes indeed! This makes me feel much better about my own shopping powress. So some of these things are already on their way to me, I can order more in the next few days, and all that I order can be returned if they do not work out. Yay! 

    Krish, it sounds as if you are really in favour of a higher heel. I am not against it, in principle, but the ones I have are about 2 inches, which is pretty good for me. I can go up to 3 but not a lot higher than that -- not even for evening wear. It just isn't "me." I need to be able to move freely. But I do plan to look some more in my shopping tomorrow. And cross fingers! If the right 3 inch heel comes along I will gladly snap it up. 

    Caro, those shoes look like a possible option, and available in Canada!! WOW!! Thank you! I would prefer a slightly higher heel (to Krish's point!) but if I don't find anything tomorrow in store, I may well order them to try! 

    Thanks again, everyone. You are so helpful! 






  • Gaylene replied 10 years ago
    Suz, have you checked out Ron White Shoes? The flagship store is in Toronto, but you can order online as well.

    Here's a sale shoe that is similar to the one you bought; it has a 3" heel, but there is an 1/2" hidden platform which might make it easier for walking.
    http://www.ronwhiteshoes.com/s.....038;view=0


  • Joy replied 10 years ago

    Just logging in to say that this fuchsia suit is so gorgeous on you?
    I doubt anyone will be looking to closely at the priceyness of your footwear, especially if low contrast to blend in.

  • Sarah A replied 10 years ago
    I am excited to see you have some more shoe options on the way... stinking up the closet with off gassing would be a deal breaker for me :( Ill give a report on the bella vita wows when the arrive tomorrow or the next day ... although you are right fit is SOOO personal I am turned off from ordering usually if the return will be difficult or costly.
  • jenanded replied 10 years ago
    Looks gorgeous, love the longer length in the pant... If you are still going the cummerbund did I see them at Danier in leather but in several colours? Maybe one to tone with the top or the shoes you decide? I find cummerbunds difficult to locate which is why I zoned in on them at Daniers...
  • K. Period. replied 10 years ago
    3 inches above the ankle bone FTW!!!  LOL because I know that Angie must have been laughing with me (maybe even a wink!) when she wrote that, given our back to back posts recommending x inches above the ankle bone. Too hilarious! How crazy are we with our ankle bone cropping instructions. Now I've got a lot riding on this. I sure hope (fingers crossed!) that that length looks incredibly fab on you.  Of course, how could it not, beautiful Suz! :)  

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