Robert Downey Jr.’s presence on the red carpet is often hard to miss, in part for the goofy energy he brings – case in point: doing a little shimmy for the paps – but mainly because his ‘fits are undeniably good.
There was the grape double-breasted suit at the Golden Globes, and the tie and tux at the Critics’ Choice awards, and most memorably, the heeled boots and grey tailcoat at the Baftas that was flipped to reveal his rear. (Tushie… sorry, I mean touché, Mr Downey Jr.)
As expected, the Oppenheimer star wore another eye-catching number at last night’s Oscars, where he picked up a statuette for Best Supporting Actor and gave a shout out to his stylist, Erica. Decked in Saint Laurent, the 48-year-old donned a monochrome suit with a bolo tie. And despite the lack of formal neckwear, it was his high-waisted, wide-leg trousers that has grabbed our attention.
He wasn’t the only star to embrace this seventies style; Colman Domingo opted for a flared bottom to his Louis Vuitton suit, while Bradley Cooper followed in Downey Jr.’s footsteps with a wide-leg style tucked under his double-breasted jacket, also dressed in LV. Say goodbye to the skinny suit, because this marks the start of billowing bottoms in formalwear.
The move towards a looser leg is hardly surprising when it’s been a staple part of ready-to-wear fashion for some time now. It was first seen in the streetwear-sphere, then adopted by minimalists via roomy jeans and even those who prefer preppy fashion, with the chino's slim fit swapped for a baggier one. Now with suiting becoming ever more experimental, from colour palettes to bijoux details, it seems natural that a more relaxed silhouette is permeating classic tailoring.
And don't be put off that it's made its first appearance on the red carpet, this can be worn by those who aren't up for multiple award nominations. For those used to the traditions of tailoring, opting for a new trouser silhouette may have you a little lost. Do it like Downey Jr. and keep the look all one colour for a modern twist, and keep the shirt tucked in to show off the length of the leg silhouette. Make sure the trouser hem falls to your shoes, as showing any laces or ankles will create a weirdly boxy shape.
Follow after these stylish men by copping yourself a pair below.
Kenzo Pinstripe Cotton and Linen Trousers
De Bonne Facture Pleated Straight-Leg Cotton-Corduroy Suit Trousers
Mfpen Studio Straight-Leg Wool Suit Trousers
Saint Laurent Pinstripe Wide-Leg Trousers
Kaptain Sunshine Straight-Leg Linen Suit Trousers
Stòffa Straight-Leg Pleated Wool-Flannel Drawstring Trousers
The Frankie Shop Beo Wide-Leg Pleated Woven Suit Trousers
Loewe Wool and Mohair Bootcut Trousers
