J Brand Houlihans- Are they worth it?

I bought my first pair of J brand jeans almost 6 years ago. I tried a pair on 6 months post-pregnancy with my first son and I couldn't believe how they made my lower half look. I needed all the help that i could get in the butt department so even though the price tag made me want to throw up a little I gave in and splurged. Years later, they are still a staple in my closet and I have remained a loyal Jbrand fan ever since. When the Jbrand Houlihan made it's debut a few years ago, I vowed to get myself a pair. I mean, look how great they looked on these celebrities:



I envisioned myself wearing them to the parc, to the grocery store, out on a hot date with the hubby, but alas, the price (of almost $300) made it impossible to own a pair of these hot pants. Until recently, a friend of mine showed up on a girl's night out wearing the vintage olive houlihans (with an awesome purple and black drapey top and gorgeous miu miu booties) and I screamed with delight when she told me that she got them for half price. I literally ran to the nearest Mendecino where the sales person confirmed the rumors- that the houlihans were ALL 50% off  as they were clearing them out for the new and improved 'distressed houlihans' (which, by the way if you ask me look no different from the original ones and were almost $400- eek!) So, as I am such a bargain hunter I finally got myself a pair of these babies. And here's a pic:




Pants: J brand Vintage Olive Houlihans, Shoes: Town shoes





They are everything that I thought they would be: stylish, versatile and extremely comfortable. I love the detailing of the pants, the side zippers add a dose of cool while the back pockets help plump up a flat butt (like mine). Even though they are cargo style you don't have to wait till spring to wear them. They look great with over the knee boots for the chilly weather now and you can definitely style them up with nude or brown sandals for summer. I loved the houlihans so much that I decided buy two more colors to add to my collection:

So my verdict is if you're in the market for pair of everyday pants that can go from casual school drop-off to absolute stunner in a pair of high heels and a blazer then these are the right pants for you. I wouldn't be so enthusiastic if they weren't half price though, so run, don't walk to your nearest J brand retailer.

Do you own a pair of the J brand houlians? What are your thoughts?