The Expensive-Looking Trend All My Stylish Friends Are Wearing Instead of Jeans

As soon as chilly weather hits, denim becomes one of the first things I reach for when getting dressed. When the instinct kicked in again this year, 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.

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. One key way everyone has been wearing their silk pants this season is with an oversize sweater and classic footwear, usually ballet flats or low-heel pumps.

See how stylish women are wearing the pant trend and shop the best silk pants here, including the $30 pair that looks 10 times that (and comes in seven colors).

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 Zürich

The lustrous silk-satin takes on an entirely new level of chic in rich chocolate brown.

In London

If a relaxed sweater and jeans are your go-to winter outfit, I suggest you try swapping in a pair of silk trousers for your denim on more temperate days. It's just as easy to put together but the result is far chicer, if you ask me.

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 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 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. Just add a coat and swap to leather flats now that it's proper winter.

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 seasonless—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.