Parachute Pants from the '80s Are Back—Here's How to Wear Them in 2024

Fashion’s enjoying a major ‘90s and ‘00s revival at the moment, but there’s another decade that’s getting a little love, too: the colorful, bombastic, unapologetic 1980s. The resurgence of parachute pants is proof of that. This baggy, nylon pant falls in line with the more relaxed styles we’re seeing, though it lends a very distinct feel. Keep reading for the full DL on what parachute pants are and how styling experts recommend wearing them.

What Are Parachute Pants?

Parachute pants have a voluminous silhouette that’s nipped at the waist and ankles—usually with elastic—and billows out along the leg. Often, they’ll have ties on the side to tighten the top and bottom of the pants, and often a pocket or two as a nod to cargo style pants.

“Formally, parachute pants were originally named as such as they resembled a parachute,” explains stylist Katie Rivera of Style Outside the City. “They were made from similar parachute material, rip-stop nylon, and had a billowy effect.”

They’re different from wide leg pants or flare jeans since they’re fitted at the ankle, though they do somewhat resemble a barrel jean with its ballooned shape. Barrel jeans tend to have a bit more structure to them, though, while parachute pants have a lightweight look.

A Quick History of Parachute Pants

This origin of this relaxed streetwear actually lies in the military where heavy nylon materials were used for practical purposes. The pant eventually gained popularity in the ‘80s, most notably in urban culture.

“Breakdancers started wearing these so they could get down against the concrete with no repercussions,” notes Carolyn Taylor Bosco, fashion expert and founder of Ouishopp. “Not only was it protective, but it also decreased friction which increased the speed of the dancers.”

Over time, the parachute pant has evolved. Today, designers often use lighter materials that are easier to wear but don’t sacrifice any style points, and some versions are even made with cotton or denim. Still, the billowy shape and urban streetwear aesthetic remains.

Where to Wear Parachute Pants

While parachute pants were originally used primarily for activewear situations, today’s variations are much more versatile. Depending on how polished they are and how you style them, parachute pants are appropriate for anything from a casual day at the park to taking meetings at your 9-to-5.

“They make a great loungewear or streetwear staple because the roomy style is so comfortable, especially if it's hot out and you don't want to feel too trapped in material,” Bosco says. “You can take it a step further and find versions made for yoga and workouts. However, you can also dress parachute pants up and wear them out to dinner or even to events. It all depends on the material used to make them.”

How to Style Parachute Pants

The versatility of parachute pants means you can style them a ton of different ways. Generally, Rivera says you want to think about maintaining some level of balance. Since the pants are so voluminous, a tighter-fitting top or a cinched waist can help create more shape. Still, an all-over-baggy look is one you can try if you like the ultra-relaxed vibe.

• Try a Breakdancing Look: “If you're wearing them for a streetwear aesthetic, embrace the breakdancer look and throw on a cropped tank top and heavy jewelry,” Bosco says.
• Wear Them to Date Night: For a night out, slip into some pointed heels and pair your pants with a super simple fitted tee. Add a few pieces of jewelry and a cool bag and you’re set.
• Take Them To Work: “If you have a parachute pant that is more polished, you could style it with a tailored top and refined high heel to wear to a creative office or event,” Rivera says.
• Keep it Loungey: “For a more loungey look, try a very thin white button down that's loose but not too much extra material—perhaps button two to three buttons—and wear a bralette underneath,” Bosco suggests.