Rhinestone Pants: How to Wear Embellished Trousers for Evening

The short answer: rhinestone pants are evening trousers, so treat them like a sequin dress cut in two: a plain black top, a heel and very little jewellery. Choose a flared leg for the longest line, like the Black rhinestone-embellished flared pants from Essentiel Antwerp, with subtle rhinestones and slits at the outer hems. Shop every pair of designer pants, our guide to how to wear flare pants, and the Essentiel Antwerp collection.

Embellished trousers are the clever alternative to a party dress: warmer, easier to move in, and they work with a knit you already own. Essentiel Antwerp is the Belgian label Inge Onsea and Esfan Eghtessadi founded in Antwerp in 1999. It started as a T-shirt line in twenty colours and grew into a full ready-to-wear house known for graphic print, bold colour and a sense of humour.

What top goes with rhinestone pants?

• A fine knit: the Black off-shoulder sweater gives a soft line against sparkle.
• A body: a sleek black bodysuit keeps the waist clean.
• A blouse: the Pink cape-effect top adds movement.
• A blazer: the Black cropped double-breasted blazer for a party suit.

Our pick

1. Black rhinestone-embellished flared pants

A slightly stretchy viscose blend, a high waist and a close fit that flares from the knee, with subtle rhinestones and slits at the outer hems for movement.

2. Black trumpet-shaped tailored pants

The plain version of the same line: a close fit through the hips and a flare from the knee, with pressed creases.

3. Argyle-print socks with rhinestone embellishments

Rhinestones at ankle height, for a loafer and cropped trouser on a less formal night.

Which shoes go with rhinestone pants?

A pointed pump, a platform, a sleek ankle boot. Flared trousers should almost touch the floor in heels, so try them on with the shoes you plan to wear. For more party looks see New Year’s Eve outfits.

Frequently asked questions

Are rhinestone pants too much for a work party?

Subtle rhinestones on black trousers, worn with a plain knit, are festive without being loud. Keep the jewellery small.

How do you wash rhinestone pants?

Follow the care label: most embellished trousers need a dry clean, never a tumble dry.

Can you wear rhinestone pants in the day?

With a chunky knit and flat boots, yes. The rhinestones read as texture in daylight.

What jewellery goes with rhinestone pants?

One piece, such as statement earrings. More sparkle at the neck competes with the trousers.

Do rhinestone pants run true to size?

The Essentiel Antwerp pair is designed for a close fit and comes in UK 4 to 16. See the size guide.