Wide-legged pants are definitely one of the chicest looks this fall, and when done right, this is one silhouette that's amazingly flattering. Skimming gracefully over everything below the waist, these sleek trousers might evoke images of Katharine Hepburn and 1940s glamour, or they can lend a masculine edge to a girly top when done in a classic menswear fabric like houndstooth or tweed.

However, wide leg pants do come with a few caveats - if you're petite, for instance, ultra-wide styles might be a bit too much for your frame. Also, what you pair them with is of ultimate importance; wearing something fitted on top is key to balancing out the volume on the bottom. Clearly, this shape is a godsend to those of us who are more pear-shaped, but almost every shape and size can rock the wide-legged look.

One thing to remember is that proportion is key. Doing volume all over will just make your figure look...well, voluminous, so skip the trapeze, empire, or otherwise baggy tops (cropped swingy jackets can work if you're tall, but be sure the hem of the jacket hits above the waistline of the pants). Wearing a sweater or knit top that fits close to the body is a good idea, as is a tailored shirt or feminine ruffled blouse. Wearing a wide belt can help define your waistline as well, and of course, a pair of high heels can add much needed height.

So go head and give your skinny jeans a break this fall and winter, and try out a pair of fabulous wide leg trousers - you'll be able be to comfortable and fashionable at the same time!