Curved pants, hailed by South Korea’s MZ generation as the new wardrobe staple, are sweeping the fashion world. Emerging after the wide-leg trend, the style is defined by a roomy fit through the thighs and a curved silhouette that tapers toward the hem.
On March 27, Musinsa reported that searches for “curved pants” jumped 3.4-fold year over year between Jan. 1 and Mar. 25. Interest spans both men and women, moving the item from a niche preference into a mainstream trend.
Curved pants are also called jar pants or balloon pants. Unlike simple wide-leg cuts, their structured, three-dimensional design both flatters proportions and changes a look, a combination that has resonated with consumers.
Sales figures back up the trend. Musinsa currently lists roughly 3,000 products under the “curved pants” keyword. In February, curved styles occupied top positions in the cotton-pants category, and some models reached No. 1 in the overall pants rankings.
Musinsa’s own label, Musinsa Standard, sold nearly 20,000 units of its curved-pants line within about a month of launch. Curved denim, in particular, has spread by word of mouth and remained among the top sellers.
In the women’s segment, the “Women’s Cotton Curved Pants” has led growth. Constructed from sturdy cotton and offered in cream, beige, and black, the item posted the highest weekly sales among women’s pants. On social media it has been nicknamed the “Han So-hee pants,” which amplified its visibility.
Casual brands are following suit. Dimitri Black’s curved chino sold more than 10,000 units within two months of release and rose into the upper ranks of popularity.
Designers have recently introduced curved variants that incorporate parachute, cargo, and sweatpant details, broadening consumer choice.
Retailer 29CM, which caters to a high proportion of female shoppers, has seen a similar surge. As of March 25, transaction value for curved pants this month rose more than 400% year over year. Analysts say minimalist brands that emphasize curved silhouettes are driving that demand.
An industry official said, “With wide pants already established as a basic item, demand for distinct shapes has concentrated on curved pants. Because they deliver both comfort and individuality, we expect them to lead bottom-wear trends going forward.”
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