Summer 2009 pants trends: Who, how and where?

The trend: Harem, pyjama pants and saroual

Celeb sighting: Eva Mendes

This summer, pants are making a major comeback. Styles from the 80s and 90s are being given a modern-day spin and are suddenly cool again. Harem pants, a 90s style of MC Hammer fame and the hottest pants this year, were the first to top the runways in the past few seasons and into the fall with a variety of styles as well as fabrics. Alexander McQueen, Chloé and Betsey Johnson, are just a few designers who embraced the Aladdin-style pants for spring summer '09, showcasing them in a wide array of colours with everything from cotton to metallic finishes.

Find out how to wear harem pants.

How to wear harem pants

Celeb sighting: Jennifer Lopez

Whether you want to go for a harem style or a pyjama style this season, remember to keep proportion in mind. A cropped or body-conscious top works best with these bottoms, balancing the silhouette while exaggerating their volume. "These pants are so comfortable and for summer 2009, they work with a cool gladiator sandal and statement jewellery," says Karen Richter, showroom manager for H & M. Get yours now: Zara, H & M, Mango and Urban Outfitters are all a great place to start when looking for some casual takes on the summer pants.

Find out what other pants are trendy for summer 2009.

The trend: Pleated and carrot pants

Celeb sighting: Rihanna

One of the great things about the pants of the season is their versatility. With so many styles, there's one (or two!) to suit all your wardrobe qualms and wishes. With a dressier look in mind, designers revamped their slacks for summer. Drawing inspiration from the popular 80s cut, the season's hottest pants are pleated in the front, increasing the volume in the hips. From tapered to wide-leg styles, pleated pants stormed the runways, from Chloé to Lacoste, Lanvin and Stella McCartney.

Find out how to wear this trend.

How to wear pleated and carrot pants

Celeb sighting: Naomi Campbell

In crushed silk, light cotton, and occasionally satin, this trend has a naturally dressy feel and works really well for daytime. Dress them up for the office with a blazer and oversized waistband-grazing tank. Throw on a strappy sandal and you've got the perfect workday look. Style them with a silky tank, oversized clutch and flat sandal for a casually stylish weekend look that's as comfortable as it is trend-setting. Night on the town? These pants go from day to night in a flash. "It's all about the right accessories. Change your day heel to a metallic one for night and your bag for a sleek clutch," Karen says. When you've got a piece this functional, you're sure to get a lot of wear out of it. Check out your local thrift stores. They have many one-of-a-kind treasures. Or head over to H & M, Banana Republic, French Connection and Mango for some of the best styles out there.

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