The Expensive-Looking Trend All My Stylish Friends Are Wearing Instead of Jeans
As soon as true fall weather hits, denim becomes one of the first things I reach for when getting dressed. I know the instinct will kick in again this year, but when I searched for fresh denim outfit inspiration, I was surprised to see that classic jeans were (ever so slightly) losing favor. That's not to say that everyone has decided against them, but I've spotted an even chicer alt in many of the European cities my most stylish follows are based in. London, Paris, Monaco—Europe's best dressed all seem to be in unison on silk pants being the ultimate luxe staple, and I've even noticed it start to trickle over to fashion people in New York and L.A. Jennifer Lawrence is a huge fan, for one.
While few things will ever truly top classic jeans in terms of timelessness and versatility, silk trousers are posing a serious threat by looking so elevated and expensive without requiring much in the way of styling. Speaking of styling ideas, one key way everyone has been wearing their silk pants this season is with an oversize sweater and classic footwear, usually ballet flats, low-heel pumps, or minimalist sandals.
See how all the stylish women from Monaco to New York are wearing the pant trend and shop the best silk pants here, including the $30 pair that looks 10 times that.
In New York
On Jennifer Lawrence: Leset Yoko Oversized Button Down ($250); Luv Lou The Poppy Sunglasses ($160)
Being the queen of casual style that she is, Jennifer Lawrence has already been all over the silk pant vibe. She styled hers multiple times over the summer with easygoing staples like relaxed button-downs and sneakers, and it's a look that feels just as relevant for winter with the addition of a long wool coat.
In Paris
Naturally, French women have adopted silk pants into their effortless outfits. Sabina Socol got it right when she opted for a pair in a merlot shade, marrying winter's "richest" color with this luxe pant trend.
In London
If a relaxed sweater and jeans is your go-to fall outfit, I suggest you trying swapping in a pair of silk trousers for your denim. It's just as easy to put together but the result is far chicer, if you ask me.
In the Netherlands
Monochromatic outfits look best when you play with contrasting textures. I love the idea of wearing satin pants with a knit sweater or bouclé jacket in the same hue for maximum impact.
In Zürich
The lustrous silk-satin takes on an entirely new level of chic in rich chocolate brown.
In Monaco
Styling the pants with elevated staples like a top-handle bag and crisp button-down shirt plays into the wealthy-looking vibe of the pants.
In Los Angeles
The outfit combination worth repeating over and over? A sweater with silk pants and ballet flats. It truly doesn't get any chicer or more comfortable than that.
In New York
Offset the pajama-like nature of the pants when you style them with elegant pieces like pumps (and a pillbox hat if you're feeling extra).
In London
They may be especially relevant this season, but silk pants are truly season-less—just ask Monikh Dale, who styles her Toteme pair year-round.
In Copenhagen
Silk pants are low-key the best pants for travel because they feel like pajamas, take up no space in your luggage, and can be dressed up or down.
This post was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Anna is an editor on the fashion team at Who What Wear and has been at the company for over five years, having begun her career in the Los Angeles office before relocating to New York, where she's currently based. Having always been passionate about pursuing a career in fashion, she built up her experience interning at the likes of Michael Kors, A.L.C., and College Fashionista before joining the team as a post-graduate assistant editor. Anna has penned a number of interviews with Who What Wear's cover stars over the years, including A-listers Megan Fox, Issa Rae, and Emma Chamberlain. She's earned a reputation for scouting new and emerging brands from across the globe and championing them to our audience of millions. While fashion is her main wheelhouse, Anna led the launch of WWW Travels last year, a new lifestyle vertical that highlights all things travel through a fashion-person lens. She is passionate about shopping vintage, whether it be at a favorite local outpost or an on-the-road discovery, and has amassed a wardrobe full of unique finds. When she's not writing, you can find her shooting street imagery on her film camera, attempting to learn a fourth or fifth language, or planning her next trip across the globe.
-
Stylish Women in Paris, London, and NYC Prefer These Pant Trends Over Skinny Jeans
Very chic alternatives.
By Copelyn Bengel
-
So *This* Is the Gwyneth Paltrow Way to Style Skinny Pants and Boots
Get ready for Goopy goodness.
By Drew Elovitz
-
It's Not Denim's Fault That Chic People Prefer This Stylish Fall Pant Trend
It's too good.
By Eliza Huber
-
Zendaya Wore the Elegant Pant Trend That's Prettier and More Comfortable Than Jeans
Your next pant purchase, found.
By Allyson Payer
-
Hailey Bieber Wore the Pant Color Trend Fashion People in Europe Are Buying in 2024
It's as useful as black.
By Allyson Payer
-
Hailey Bieber and Addison Rae Just Made a Case for the Return of This Nostalgic Pant Trend
I don't know how to feel.
By Nikki Chwatt
-
Katie Holmes Wore the Pant Trend That'll Earn Way More Compliments Than Jeans
"Where'd you get those?"
By Eliza Huber
-
I Thought This Pant Trend Was "Dated," But J.Lo's Elegant Outfit Changed My Mind
Watch out, puddle pants.
By Nikki Chwatt