Otherwise known as “Ali Baba” pants, harem pants are making a comeback this season, since everything from the 1980s is hip again. Many will remember rapper MC Hammer as being synonymous with harem pants, as worn in his music video “You Can’t Touch This”.

During the Spring/Summer shows, brands such as Chloe, Givenchy and Vivienne Westwood were spotted showcasing these pants and giving them a more modern twist.

Chloe presents harem pants for Spring / Summer 2009

Tapered at the ankles or calves and roomier at the hips, harem pants are more suitable for lanky figures rather than curvy ones because they add bulk to your hips and thighs.

Curvy Maria Sharapova looks bulky in her harem pants

Keep it tight and fitting for your tops if you don’t want to lose your silhouette, and add on some thin belts to further enhance your shape. Also remember to wear them with heels if you don’t want to look like a true blue Arabian princess. To adapt these pants for the office, throw on a fitted jacket and blouse.

Ralph Lauren’s casual combination (left) contrasts with Philip Lim’s formal interpretation of harem pants (right)