Mindy Kaling Wore Flare Jeans and a Springy Red Cardigan

Welcome to The Blueprint, where we break down the celebrity looks we want to wear right now and build them back up, piece by piece.

Mindy Kaling may not be Running Point on these celebrity-worn trends, but she is running toward them — and so am I. 

Earlier this week, the actress shared a series of Instagram Stories promoting her new project with Kate Hudson that made my heart skip a beat. Why? She was wearing a pair of flare jeans. The leg-elongating style practically has Hollywood in a trance — Drew Barrymore, Meghan Markle, and Kelly Clarkson are all wearing them — and it’s all I’ve been seeing lately. 

She also wore an upscale-looking cardigan and black shoes with more than one funky element to look at: Not only were they tall and chunky, they had a T-strap and horsebit, too. 

They always say why fix something if it’s not broken, and Kaling’s outfit is an example of that. Jeans and sweaters are easy and casual, yet look cohesive and stylish together. They’re also smart for that sweet spot in between winter and spring when you can finally leave the bulky coat at home but still need to cover up a bit. 

Mindy Kaling’s Outfit Blueprint 

Levi’s 726 High-Rise Flare Jeans

Flare jeans always seemed too retro for my liking, but not anymore — they’re totally back “in.” These Levi’s jeans are a little more understated, so they’re a toned-down way to first dip into the trend. They also have a zipper-fly, which I prefer, and fit a little more snug around the thighs, according to the brand, to accentuate your shape. 

And it’s not just me who thinks flares lengthen your legs: “I feel like the flare bottoms give an illusion of longer legs,” wrote one shopper, adding that “the fabric is softer than a normal jean.” 

Grace Karin Button-Down Cardigan

Cardigans used to only remind me of my high school uniform, but then I realized celebrities have really been closing in on them. I’ve since tried a few, and now I’m not sure why I ever dropped them in the first place. Before buying a new one, I always consider the buttons, because they’re usually a giveaway for whether the item was cheap or high-end. 

This one has classy-looking pearls and some gold finishing that, frankly, looks better than some of my more expensive sweaters. Shoppers also say it reminds them of a “lady jacket,” so that only adds to its value in my mind.  

Dream Pairs Loafer Flat

I’ve been looking for good loafers, but it didn’t occur to me to get a chunky, almost heel-like pair like Kaling’s. I’m already pretty tall, so I don’t usually need the extra height, but now I definitely want it. Plus, in conjunction with flattering flare pants, my legs will look longer than ever before. 

This pair has the horsebit detail that’s so classic, while these from Coutgo have a cool T-strap, making them resemble a loafer and a Mary Jane. They’re both under $45, which for me, is a steal.

Keep scrolling to shop more flare jeans, cardigans, and shoes inspired by Mindy Kaling now. 

Kunmi High-Waisted Flare Jeans 

Grapent High-Waisted Flare Jeans 

Prettygarden Button-Down Cardigan 

Lillusory Oversized Cardigan 

Coutgo Platform T-Strap Mary Jane Shoes

Dream Pairs Platform Loafers