Victory is mine! I’ve waited years, and although it’s been a snaillike process, the thong baring, low riding pants have finally gone back to buttcrack hell where they belong.



A few years ago the high waist reemerged, but it’s taken designers awhile to get it just right.

For 2008, designers are putting the high tide on just about everything; pants, capris, shorts and even skirts. I love reinventing the fashions of decades passed, so when this 1940s trend popped up again, I was stoked. And I’m no shopping novice, so I immediately went on the offense, scouring some of my favorite spots for the perfect piece.



My first stop, as usual, was a thrift store. I can’t resist. I love the chance to bust out my shark like lunchroom negotiation skills, and I don’t think the salespeople at Macy’s will haggle with you. I went first to Salvation Army, one of my faves for the prices and variety. Did I score you ask? Indeed.



The super high waist and lighter wash on these jeans ($4) give off that cool ’70s vibe. Plus they make your legs look like they go on for miles. Great for us shorter gals. High waist jeans should be just long enough to graze the floor, with a little toe peeking out. The wide legs can sometimes make you look footless, so you have to be careful.



At T.J. Maxx I found an amazing knee length skirt in deep teal, made by Lapis. ($16.99) Unfortunately, the high waist had a matching belt. Ugh. I immediately replaced it with one of my own, a purple ’80s stretchy number with a seashell buckle. It added instant funk, but was still super sexy when paired with some purple crocodile heels.



Next I drove to Forever 21, where I found my favorite piece of all. A black belted satin skirt with a high button waist. This baby isn’t for the faint of heart. It shows off your curves like nobody’s business. Paired with a tucked in button-up, it’s perfect for the office. Since it’s fairly long, you can add a pair of fishnets to spice it up for evening, without looking skanky.



For those of you who like to be cozy, but still trendy, Pringle of Scotland makes a perfect trouser with a high ruffled waist and large tie belt. They’re made of a loose-fitting cotton/poly for extra comfort. ($695, neimanmarcus.com)



Just remember, not everyone can pull off the high waist. But if done right it can be super feminine. Very Katherine Hepburn.



[Salvation Army, 12904 Meridian Ave. E., Puyallup]

[T.J. Maxx, 3216 S. 23rd St., Tacoma]

[Forever 21, 633 Southcenter Mall, Tukwila]