The best culottes to buy now

We get it – culottes can seem intimidating. And they're not always well-received by your other halves, as Ruth Langsford recently discovered!Their mid-leg length is slightly awkward, not to mention that wide-leg silhouette. But these short-trouser hybrids are actually very versatile, and work with plenty of pieces already in your wardrobe.

You can pair them with a crisp white shirt for an office-worthy look, or team them with a crop top for a more weekend-appropriate vibe. If it's slouchy you're after, you can make like Victoria Beckham and add an oversized jumper.

As for footwear, almost anything goes. Heels will elongate for a super-flattering silhouette (we love a good pair of strappy sandals or mules – see Olivia Culpo), while trainers make for the ultimate cool-girl look. For further fashion points, pair with an ankle boot that meets the end of the culottes.

To get you started, we've picked our top ten favourite culottes - happy shopping!

Pleats please! We love these voluminous culottes from Oh My Love. Team with a graphic t-shirt and trainers for a contemporary take on casual.

Box Pleat Culottes by Oh My Love, £45, Topshop

Created with black floral lace and featuring a delicate scalloped hemline, this is a lovely, feminine take on the culotte trend.

Diane Von Furstenberg Holly Lace Culottes, £358, Harrods

Heading off to the sun? Give your holiday wardrobe a dose of Mara Hoffman charm with these gorgeous printed culottes. The tropical flower print and dainty dots creates a vibrant look - perfect to throw over your swimsuit as you head to the beach.

Mara Hoffman printed culottes, £268, My Theresa

Looking to update your Sunday wardrobe? Swap your sweatpants for these irresistibly slouchy, yet still super stylish, knitted culottes. The tie waist means you can loosen up to make room for that Sunday roast!

Noisy May Knitted culottes, £32, Lipsy

Up your occasion wear game with this pair of silky culottes. The gorgeous floral print makes these ASOS numbers a great Spring/Summer wedding outfit option.

ASOS Occasion Printed Culottes, £26.50

Swap out your pencil skirt for this season's much cooler culotte offering. These crepe pants from Jacques Vert will add instant style points to your workwear wardrobe.

Jacques Vert Crepe Culottes, £23.30, John Lewis

For a more subtle take on the trend, opt for these gorgeous check culottes from ASOS - you might find their slightly less wide-leg a more wearable option.

ASOS Culotte with Tie Waist in Mini Check, £26.50

We love the versatility of these New Look culottes - you can use them to add a pop of colour to your workwear wardrobe or dress them down for a weekend look. Jacques Vert Crepe Culottes

New Look Mid Pink Tie Waist Culottes, £19.99

Add some serious volume to your look with this wide-leg culottes from Warehouse. When it comes to styling, treat them almost as a midi-skirt - you can pretty much wear them with anything.

Warehouse Wide-leg culottes in tan, £30