Sorry, Jeans—These Classic Trousers Are Replacing You This Winter

A friend once told me that I'm much more of a cold-weather dresser than that of a hot one. I prefer to layer, build up textures and to tie it all together with some wool-content items for good measure. My long-time go-to item of clothing has and will always be a wide-fit pair of trousers with a pleat detail and belt loops. I feel like you just can't go wrong with the right pair and they can be styled with knitwear, fitted tops, chunky tops, slouchy tops, big coats, small coats, trainers, loafers...I could go on.

The beauty of this tailored style of trousers is that they go hand in hand with non-tailored items so well. Don't get me wrong, a waistcoat and blazer also helps nail the look, but I thrive on styling mine with a fitted jersey top or t-shirt and a bomber jacket or similarly loose-fitting piece. 

The added benefit? This style of trouser is so versatile, it can work for any event. From day to night or office to bar, a shoe change from loafers or trainers to boots or heels instantly transforms your trouser-led outfit with so little effort. They're comfy too, meaning that my jeans have been relegated and pushed to the back of my wardrobe this winter, and tailored trousers have taken centre stage.

There are a lot of great examples of chic tailored trousers out there right now across all price ranges and in all materials. Some of the best are fluid spun-wool fabrics, which hang off the waist beautifully or a thicker wool for a more traditional style. Read on for my edit of the best tailored trouser outfits and shop all the pieces you may need to help recreate the looks at home.

1. Sharp and Monochromatic

Style Notes: Here, Tanice combines the sharp tuxedo-style tailoring of her coat with a relaxed t-shirt for a modern and clean look. I especially love the sharp pressed edge down the front of her trousers. Her whole look is pulled together with a simple black leather belt and simple sandals (although I've selected a more winter-and-toe-friendly option below.)

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2. Relaxed and Layered

Style Notes: Tray effortlessly combines stripes with a light jacket (buttoned only at the top, stylish) underneath an on-trend khaki quilted jacket for a laid back look. The cropped ankle length of her tailored trousers along with polished leather accessories beautifully pull together her layering. 

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3. Trendy Yet Timeless

Style Notes: Victoria mixes fluoro with grey in an unlikely but slick pairing and then tops it all off with a black leather blazer. Who knew? This look is a contemporary take on the trend and the nipped in waist balances out the wider fit of her trousers. 

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4. Slouchy and Elegant

Style Notes: Yusra knows a good accessory when she sees one. The french-tuck of her polo-neck knit to reveal her leather belt shows us how to effortlessly combine slouchy with loose and not look too heavy. I've edited the shopping to a little more winter-ready footwear below.

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5. Playful and Eye-Catching

Style Notes: Remember when I said that I wasn't good at summer dressing? This would be the perfect example of me embracing a sleeveless top but still insisting on it being wool knitwear! Yasmine styles her super-slouchy pair of wide leg pleated trousers with an eye-catching patchwork knitted vest and dad trainers for a comfortable, relaxed yet playful take on the trend. 

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Next Up: I'm a Stylist—9 Easy Trouser Outfits I Plan on Copying This Winter