As the long days of summer prepare to gracefully give way to the golden hues of autumn, it's time to embrace the style shifts that the season brings, and my first port of call is trousers. Autumn 2023 is ushering in an array of trouser trends that are sure to captivate fashion people, most of whom have been embracing trousers in a big way this year.
I'm sure, if you're reading this, that you can count yourself amongst them—I know I've worn more trousers than ever over the past few months, and I'm ordinarily a dress kind of girl. From sleek and tailored silhouettes to effortlessly chic wide-leg wonders, this autumn's trouser trends are an ode to both sophistication and comfort.
Drawing inspiration from lush natural landscapes, expect to see an earthy palette taking centre stage—think deep burgundies, rich olive greens and warm, rusty tones—sitting alongside timeless hues of navy, white and black. Patterns are not to be forgotten, with classic pinstripes making a triumphant return to gift our legs with instant polish. These autumn trousers effortlessly transcend from office chic to weekend wanderings, making them a smart addition to your wardrobe.
The leaves may not be falling yet but it never hurts to get ahead, so scroll on to see the eight autumn trouser trends that are set to take over, as told by the A/W 23 runways.
1. Slouchy Leather
Style Notes: And just like that, it's almost leather season. I for one am ready for the shift. A chic alternative to jeans and just as versatile, this season is all about leather strides with a slightly slouchier (and comfier) silhouette.
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A handy investment not just for this autumn, but every autumn.
Puddle pants—trousers with legs that hit the floor—are still very much a thing for autumn.
2. Cigarette Cut
Style Notes: Slim-fit trousers made a comeback in earlier in the year when we began taking note of the A/W 23 trends as they unfolded before our eyes on the runways. Now, consider this your reminder that skinny pants are going to have a big impact on your wardrobe this year.
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These H&M trousers have sold out previously, but I just got notified of a restock.
Just add ballet pumps and a striped jumper.
3. '80s Pinstripe
Style Notes: Once considered "dated", pinstripes are officially back on the fashion map thanks to fresh colourways and styling techniques. Embrace all that was good about '80s power dressing with a matching blazer, or stick to a pair in black and white and wear with a simple vest and flats for a low-key take.
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These will never feel passé.
Shake up your palette with a hit of crimson.
4. Workwear Grey
Style Notes: Grey trousers make me think of two things: my going-out looks circa 2007 and '90s work outfits. Funnily enough, either aesthetic works this season (I saw both in the latest collections) but one thing's for sure—grey trousers are in.
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These come in an extended size range.
Grey on grey is a vibe.
5. Silk and Satin
Style Notes: Following on from the pyjama trousers that emerged in the summer months, for autumn, things are taking a sultry turn by way of fluid silks and satins. It's bedtime, only bougie.
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You know I'm just as into the matching Studio Organza Blouse With Creased Effect (£129).
These also come in classic black.
6. White Denim
Style Notes: White jeans might be synonymous with summer, but after seeing more than a pair or two as I conducted my runway research (more like 20!), their hold on the season has to be acknowledged. Consider them a gateway between the seasons and style them with a leather blazer and loafers.
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Our editors love the fit of these jeans.
From the high waist to the long hemlines, this pair ticks so many trend boxes.
7. Extra Wide
Style Notes: Wide-leg trousers have dominated the trend agenda for the past few seasons, but instead of tiring of them, fashion is going bigger. As in, circus-tent proportions. Keep your top half fitted to add more emphasis to the shape below.
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So. Much. Volume!
Another key attribute of this trend is a floor-skimming hem.
8. Magpie Silver
Style Notes: Silver is one of the biggest trends of the year, first taking over our jewellery boxes and shoe collections. Now though, the metallic shade is infiltrating our wider wardrobes too, with one of the sleekest ways to wear it proving to be in the form of trousers. Counter their statement-making finish with simple separates such as crisp white shirting and beige cashmere.
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The perfect example of how to style silver trousers.
The cropped length is ideal for showcasing a chic shoe moment.
Next Up: Experts Agree: These Autumn/Winter 2023 Fashion Trends Really Count
Opening Image: @smythsisters
