8 Trouser Styles to Wear in 2022 (and There's Not a Low-Slung Pair in Sight)

We're suckers for a new trend, and with spring/summer on the horizon (it's no longer dark by 3 p.m., at least), it's time to invest in pieces that'll see you through the year. And trousers have been the talk of the town. The likes of Missoni, Molly Goddard and MSGM assume we'll all be wearing low-slung jeans for 2022. And while we swerve this trend at all costs (circa 2011 Britney Spears and Paris Hilton can keep these), we're here to tell you the trouser styles we'll likely all be wearing now through to the new season and beyond. 

Jeans are, of course, still in the mix, with punchy printed styles and effortless off-white being key. Leather has had a colourful update, flares are part of the big '70s revival, and wide-leg trousers are the relaxed nod to tailoring your outfits will thank you for. 

So here we have it, the eight trouser styles you'll actually want to put on for 2022. And there's not a low-slung pair in sight. 

1. Tailored Wide-Leg Trousers

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(Image credit: @marisamartins)

Look sharp with minimal effort with a pair of sleek, tailored wide-leg strides. 

2. Pleated Trousers

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(Image credit: @daniellejinadu)

The crinkled plissé fabric will save you time steaming in the a.m. Wear these as a co-ord for a spring-ready look that'll never fail. 

3. Printed Denim

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(Image credit: @emilisindlev)

Denim is never dull when these printed jeans are around. Make like Emili and go for head-to-toe colour for extra impact. 

4. Knitted Trousers

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(Image credit: @abimarvel)

Let's face it. Comfort still comes first this year. Soft, knitted trousers aren't just reserved for lounging. 

5. Coloured Leather/Vinyl Trousers

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(Image credit: @smythsisters)

Leather (real or faux) and vinyl trousers are looking fresh for 2022 in bold colours. Style them much like you would your trusty black pair–with Breton tops, fine-knit sweaters and crisp shirts. 

6. Off-White Jeans

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

A coffee-spillage nightmare, but a fashion person's dream. Ecru and off-white denim will be a hero item to rely on all-year round. 

7. Animal-Print Trousers

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(Image credit: @hannahlewisstylist)

Party pants get the seal of approval in the form of animal print. Leave leopard alone—this one is all about zebra and tiger (to be worn with classic wardrobe staples).

8. Retro Flares

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(Image credit: @venswifestyle)

As part of the '70s revival, flared trousers are back. A smart pair will work seamlessly with your existing wares—from knit vests (like Renia) to polo tops and camis come spring. 

Next up, 5 Easy Jeans-and-Shoes Pairings I'm Stealing From Celebs

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Freelance Fashion Editor

Harriet Davey is a freelance fashion editor who has been part of Who What Wear's extended team since 2017. She previously worked in print at Look magazine and has since worked across print, digital and social for many other titles, including British Vogue, Stylist, Grazia, Refinery29 and Marie Claire. Also a stylist, Harriet has had the pleasure of producing cover shoots and editorials along with commercial shoots for brands including Boux Avenue, Watches of Switzerland, Benefit Cosmetics and Revolution. To add to this, Harriet also works in live TV styling for ITV’s This Morning. Back to Who What Wear. With hundreds of published stories on site, Harriet knows what the WWW reader wants. Keeping up to date with the latest It buys and runway trends, she can guarantee to keep you one step ahead of the most stylish people. When not writing or styling, Harriet loves to go shopping (yes, more fashion). If she’s not in a local Hackney bar or restaurant, you can find her forever searching for her next holiday destination.