Balloon trousers, parachute pants or harem, whatever you choose to call them, the voluminous styles—loved by the likes of Christina Aguilera and Britney Spears in the early '00s—are back. And they are, quite literally, bigger than ever. I can't scroll for two minutes on Instagram without seeing fellow fashion people in a pair of the baggy trousers. And although to begin with I thought my petite legs (I'm 5' 4", for reference) couldn't possibly pull off the stretch-hem trousers, I was wrong. I recently got a brown satin pair from Jaki, and I'm now converted. Usually with a stretch waist, they're way more comfy than jeans, you can get them in a fabric that doesn't feel sloppy like some joggers (satin, cool cotton or a more tailored wool mix are perfect for spring) and they're actually suitable for all heights. While M&S has balloon trousers in different lengths, the stretch hemline also means you don't have to have legs for days to wear them. Volume is the key here, so it doesn't matter if the hem means you have to pull them up higher and pump up the volume on the legs. And if we've learnt anything from the popularity of horseshoe and barrel-leg jeans over the years, is that wider leg trousers are actually super versatile.
Need further proof? Here's five balloon pants looks that'll convince you to embrace the return of these controversial trousers. I have, and my jeans have been ignored ever since.
Outfits With Balloon Trousers to Copy This Spring:
1. Balloon Trousers + Striped Shirt + Thong Sandals
Style Notes: When I look at this outfit, it makes me SO excited for spring. From the striped shirt (I'm inspired by how Sarah has doubled up) and the toe-baring thong sandals to those airy white balloon pants. It screams warm days on the way to brunch (al fresco, of course), and I for one, can't wait.
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Minimalists can't get enough of these in white and black.
Make like Sarah and do the double shirt.
A classic.
All about that boxy shape.
2. Balloon Trousers + Blazer + Heels
Style Notes: Grey is a key colour for spring/summer 2026—spotted at Victoria Beckham, Stella McCartney and Attico—and Nnenna shows how to wear it with this monochromatic look. I love how the tailored blazer and sleek courts adds a polished edge to the slouchy grey marl trousers. Effortless.
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This tailored take on the trend is so good—well done, COS.
The shape of this blazer is exquisite.
Khaite has approved the return of white courts.
I add sunglasses to any outfit, no matter the weather forecast.
3. Balloon Trousers + Trench + Cardigan
Style Notes: This is one of those running errands outfits you'll wear on repeat from now on, trust me. Spring days still call for light layers, so a cardigan and trench is the perfect pairing to go with slouchy balloon trousers. As comfy as joggers, but more put together, I wonder how we ever lived without them really.
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If you're petite like Monikh, this M&S pair comes in extra short and petite lengths (as well as regular and tall).
A cardigan so perfect, it comes in 26 colours and prints.
Grab a size up to go even more oversized.
I love the vibe of a coat worn with flip flops.
4. Balloon Trousers + Cami Top + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: Khaki is also another colour du jour this season so you'll be ticking off a double trend with this one. Gigi's cinched waist cami feels very 2026 and I like how she's taken the silk scarf away from the waist (something we all relied on heavily throughout 2025) and worn the 2026 way—as a head scarf.
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I also want these in white.
So pretty with jeans, too.
So many ways to style this pretty scarf.
The ankle strap makes mesh flats feel new for 2026.
5. Balloon Trousers + Knit + Pointed-Toe Shoes
Style Notes: Okay, I'm copying this colour pairing immediately. I wouldn't have necessarily thought to put lime green with beige balloon trousers, but I'm into it. Neutral, yet still statement thanks to the zesty shade, this is a trans-seasonal outfit to get on board with. Plus, you can easily switch out the heels for a ballet flat or ruched loafer.
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This super slouchy pair looks effortless with the matching jacket.
Zesty lime works so well with beige, tan and even lighter shades of brown.
Pointed toe shoes work so well with the voluminous trousers.
Mixed metal jewellery gets a yes from me.