Finding the perfect pair of trousers is a tricky, but not insurmountable, task. Firstly, you have to find a fit that’s right for you, then there’s sizing variations, length, and of course, colour considerations. Our advice? Try before you buy and be flexible with your choices. Luckily, this season brands have been offering up their own iterations on the perfect pant. High-street heroes, Arket, Cos and Me+Em, continue to dominate with smart tailoring, while tried-and-tested names, such as Victoria Beckham and Toteme, offer a shape and style for any occasion.
From wide-leg trousers that will see you from day to night, to the best leather trousers on offer, study Vogue’s guide to the best trousers to stock up on now.
- Best wide-leg trousers: Filippa K Darcey Wide-Leg Trousers, £198
- Best black trousers: JW Anderson Fold-Over Trousers, £750
- Best high-waisted trousers: Peachy Den Lennox Ink Wide-Leg Tailored Trousers, £125
- Best leather trousers: Isabel Marant Ariet Trousers, £330
- Best cargo trousers: The Frankie Shop Maesa Pleated Woven Wide-Leg Cargo Pants, £200
- Best barrel-leg trousers: Cos Pleated Barrel-Leg Wool-Blend Trousers, £115
- Best capris: Free People Bette Super Slim Capris, £78
- Best high-street trousers: Uniqlo Pleated Wide-Leg Trousers, £35
Wide-leg trousers
A good wide-leg trouser can add a lot to any outfit. A lightweight pair composed of linen or cotton is ideal for warmer months or winter sun, while a wide-leg trouser in a heavier fabric, like wool or cashmere, is a non-negotiable for any office wardrobe.
Black trousers
The ultimate workwear staple, a black trouser goes just as well with a tailored blazer and smart blouse, as it does with a vintage tee and trainers. Add a pair into your everyday rotation and you’ll be surprised how often you reach for them.
Read more: Shop Vogue’s Edit Of The Best Black Boots
Leather trousers
You’d be hard-pressed to find a single item of clothing that carries the same power as good leather trousers. Capable of adding an edge to the most casual of outfits, leather trousers come in any style and shape you could imagine, including cropped, cargo, flared and straight-leg.
High-waisted tailored trousers
High-waisted trousers are a woman’s secret weapon. So comfortable you’ll be happy to wear them from dawn ’till dusk, they’ll pair perfectly with a simple tank, but dress up easily with a matching blazer or shirt.
Barrel leg
Sculptural, barrel-leg trousers have recently witnessed a moment in the spotlight. This curved shape – which we’re calling the horseshoe – is a bold alternative to wide-leg trousers, and looks just as stylish in denim as it does in wool-blend fabrications or corduroy.
Cargo trousers
In recent years, cargo pants have made a return in a big way. Designers like Saint Laurent have given them a more grown-up finish, rendered in more structured silhouettes than their Noughties counterparts, complete with neat pockets and made from beautiful fabrics. These cargos will look just as stylish in the office, as for weekends in the park.
Capri trousers
Nothing says summer quite like a pair of capris. Style them like the fashionable crowds of Copenhagen with a slouchy blazer or leather jacket, or keep it casual with an athletic-inspired long-sleeved top or white vest. Trust us when we tell you that these are the missing ingredient in your warm-weather wardrobe (if you haven’t yet discovered their versatility).
High-street trousers
It’s no secret that the high street has been offering up some seriously good fashion finds in recent years. With lightweight options from Whistles and Uniqlo that are perfect for warmer office days, and impressively tailored iterations from & Other Stories and Arket, these options will see you through the year in style – without breaking the bank.