With ultra high-waist trousers you can keep the high waist visible with a short or tucked-in top. In winter that works with a fine-knit polo or top, a short coat or a cardigan that ends at the waist. Keep the rest of the outfit calm and choose colours that belong together: black, cream, brown or navy. Because the waist is clearly present, a simple top works well. Below you can read how to approach it, step by step.
What are ultra high-waist trousers?
Ultra high-waist trousers sit above the natural waist, at or just above your navel. The high waist changes the proportion between upper and lower body. Which combination works well depends on your own proportions and preference. In winter that calls for a smart choice, because you wear more layers and do not want to lose the waist under a thick sweater.
The rules for the top
- Short or tucked in. A top that reaches the waist, or a top that you tuck in, shows the high waist.
- Fine knit. A thin polo or knit is easier to tuck in than heavy knitwear.
- Calm blocks of colour. Preferably wear the same shade on top and bottom, or a shade from the same family. This keeps the colour contrast limited.
- A belt as an accent. A belt at the waist finishes the line, especially with a tucked-in top.
Combinations with knitwear
A fine-knit polo is the simplest top. The Ophelia in black is made of 100% lyocell and is easy to tuck into trousers. Wear it with plain black trousers such as the Daphni in black (95% polyester, 5% elastane) for a fully black, tonal combination. If you want it lighter, choose the Daphni in cream with the Eleanor in white, a knitted cardigan made of 79.9% viscose and 20.1% polyamide that you wear open over a plain top. White and cream are close together and give a calm, warm picture.
Looking for a softer, warmer variant? The Augusta in cream is made of 90.2% wool and 9.8% cashmere. Wear it with brown trousers such as the Philippa in brown, a trouser made of 100% polyester. Cream and brown together form a classic winter pair. You will find all trousers in the trousers for women collection, and matching knitwear in knitwear for women.
Coats and boots
With a high waist you can choose a short coat or a long coat. A short coat to the hip keeps the waist clearly visible. A long wool coat also works, but wear it open, so the line of the trousers stays visible. For shoes, a boot with a small heel or a loafer suits a straight leg. Make sure the leg is long enough: a high waist with a leg that is too short makes the whole look short and squat.
Three winter outfits
- Office: Ophelia in black, tucked into the black Daphni, with a black belt, loafers and a short coat.
- Weekend: Eleanor in white and Daphni in cream, white and brown sneakers and a warm scarf.
- Dinner: Augusta in cream with Philippa in brown, a piece of jewellery in warm gold and boots with a small heel.
What if you have a longer torso?
With a longer torso, a higher waist can change the proportion between upper and lower body. With a shorter torso you can try different waist heights to see what you like best yourself. In a fitting room, try first with the top tucked in and untucked, and see which line suits you best. Fit is personal, and what works for one person can be a little too much for another.
How do you get the trousers to fit well?
With ultra high-waist trousers the fit matters more than with ordinary trousers. The waistband must fit closely without pinching. Check especially while sitting that the waistband stays comfortable. In the fitting room, also test whether you can sit well. The waistband should not dig in when seated. The leg should fall straight, without pulling over the hip. A small alteration by a tailor at the waist or the hem can make a big difference.
Colours that work in winter
| Trousers | Top | Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Black | Black or white | Long, calm line |
| Cream | White or ecru | Soft and warm |
| Brown | Cream or beige | Classic, wintry |
| Navy | White or light blue | Fresh and polished |
Accessories that strengthen the line
A narrow belt at the waist, a scarf worn loosely around your neck and small earrings keep the whole calm. If you are looking for a bag, choose a compact model that fits on your hip or under your arm. A compact bag gives less volume around the upper body. In winter you often add gloves and a hat. Keep those in the same colour family as your trousers, so everything keeps matching.
Care of high-waist trousers
A high waist calls for a good fit and a waistband that does not shrink. Wash, dry and iron the trousers according to the care label. The care instructions page has general guidelines.
Shop the look
Ophelia: polo, black
Daphni: trousers, black
Daphni: trousers, cream
Eleanor: cardigan, white
Augusta: polo, cream
Philippa: trousers, brown
Frequently asked questions
Which top suits ultra high-waist trousers best?
A short or tucked-in top in fine knit keeps the high waist visible.
Can I wear a long sweater?
You can, but then wear it loose over the trousers with a belt, or tuck in the front. A thick, long sweater hides the waist.
Which shoes go with it?
Boots with a small heel, loafers or smart sneakers. Make sure the leg is long enough for the shoe.
