Amal Clooney Knows: Cigarette Pants and Heels Make a Failsafe, Elegant Outfit

Amal Clooney’s appearance at the 2018 Met Gala was unforgettable. Beyond her role as co-host at this prestigious event centered on the museum’s Heavenly Bodies: Fashion & The Catholic Imagination, her choice of cigarette pants made an audacious style statement. In a sea of extravagant gowns, Clooney effortlessly grabbed attention. Heaven sent.

Her ensemble featured a complete Richard Quinn design, showcasing a dazzling metallic silver corset paired with a floral skirt and a dramatic train, which was styled to reveal her tailored blue satin trousers—an iconic style that epitomizes Clooney’s fashion repertoire and is easily adaptable for this season.

Over the years, Amal Clooney has cultivated a sophisticated sartorial signature. This includes remarkable vintage gowns from Galliano’s Dior era for events in Lake Como or her appearances at the Cannes Film Festival, accessorized with eye-catching earrings and oversized hats, all completed with a flawless blowout. She masterfully navigates dramatic shapes and understands what flatters her figure. Clooney’s footwear choices are also standout, often featuring satin Jimmy Choo mules, classic Manolo Blahnik heels, and Prada pumps.

Among her signature looks is the versatile combination of cigarette pants (or jeans) and chic heels. Clooney is often seen more casually, enjoying a stroll through New York in blue cigarette jeans, paired with a snug turtleneck and heeled boots. Alternatively, she has dressed them up with sparkling crop tops, blazers, and strappy sandals or with classic Chanel ballet flats.

Cigarette jeans have historically made waves in the fashion world since the ‘80s, with icons like Lady Diana, Cindy Crawford, and Farrah Fawcett championing this trendy silhouette. Princess Diana sported them with trainers, while Sarah Jessica Parker added an oversized blazer to her look. Recently, even Bella Hadid has embraced this style, as fitted silhouettes continue to dominate the runways—ranging from indie sleaze-inspired skinnies at McQueen and Balenciaga to the elegant straight-leg and cropped trousers offered by Chanel. The cigarette pants favored by Amal, along with those worn by Dakota Johnson (styled with loafers), create an ideal blend between skinny and straight cuts.

Taking cues from Amal Clooney’s style, wearing your own pair of cigarette jeans is straightforward—just team them with a neutral-toned blouse or a delicate knit, topped off with striking heels like animal print ankle boots or classic Manolo Blahniks.