Sorry, Skinny Jeans—I'm in a Committed Relationship With Wide-Leg Trousers
I'm just going to come right out and say it: Skinny jeans are officially on pause. Sorry if that sounds a little dramatic, but let me explain. No matter how you feel about the revival of the super-slim denim, there's no denying that looser trouser shapes are the reigning silhouette as far as jeans and trousers go, and my own wardrobe is conclusive proof of this.
I recently did a massive wardrobe cleanout and in the process realised that nearly all the trousers and jeans I moved to the 'on pause' were skinny and snug fits. I owned multiple pairs at one point but have since found myself drawn more and more to relaxed trouser silhouettes. It's not just me, celebs are in complete agreement too, plus every fashion person I know. There's something undeniably cool about voluminous, wide-leg trouser, not to mention that they've made more sense than ever over the last couple of years seeing as comfort has become our top priority when getting dressed. The relaxed but still polished trousers just might be the answer to avoiding another sweatpants slump. Plus, they're so versatile, with the ability to be dressed up or down and for all and every season with a simple swap of layers and accessories.
If the above isn't enough, I have a strong feeling that once you see just how chic the fashion world is making wide-leg trousers look, you're going to agree with me here, so if you're ready to retire your skinnies, keep scrolling on to fill up on wide-leg trouser outfit ideas and shop all the pieces you might need to help recreate the looks.
Style Notes: For spring weather, pair the roomy trousers with a pretty broderie anglaise top and shoulder robe the jumper.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Abercrombie has some of the best wide-leg trousers out there.
These look so expensive, and trust me come spring, they're going to sell out everywhere.
Style Notes: The fashion girls' go-to way to wear the trousers right now? With an oversized blazer and peek of the Miu Miu bralette, it adds laidback appeal to tailoring.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Its easy to see why Zara trousers are a fashion-person fave.
Style Notes: Create an effortless and timeless look when you lean into wardrobe basics like the smart button-down shirt and simple sneakers.
SHOP THE LOOK:
The perfect nipped waist, well-thought-out cut, and loose, flowy leg.
Style Notes: This delicate blouse is a great way to make these relaxed pants look a bit more elevated, especially in rich shades of mustard, tan and green.
SHOP THE LOOK:
I can never say no to Issey Miyake plissé.
Pair these with a denim and chunky boots for the weekend.
You're going to be hard pressed finding me carrying any other bag this spring.
Style Notes: Instagram's best dressed are all about giving their suits a modern feel by dressing them down with tees and sneakers.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Just add a white tee to complete the look.
The obsession with New Balance continues.
Style Notes: All grey everything is always a good idea, especially in an oversized fit. Just add chunky loafers.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Style Tip: If you want to dress up casual linen, I suggest this chic look involving a cutout top and square-toe heels.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Style Tip: Another current trend that just so happens to look great with wide-leg pants? Bustier tops. It doesn't get more impactful than this.
SHOP THE LOOK:
The high waist fit with the sharp pleats is a winning combo.
Style Tip: Skip the tailor and let your trousers pool around your ankles for a look that feels very right now.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Style Tip: Balance out wide leg proportion with a form fitting top. Obsessed.
SHOP THE LOOK:
It's the off the shoulder moment I've been looking for.
Kitten heels and wide leg fit might be my new favourite combo.
Style Notes: You can't go wrong with a classic navy pea coat and white jeans, when the weather starts to warm up, the chunky loafer is perfect for an off-duty weekend outfit that says "casual cool".
SHOP THE LOOK:
I'm actually excited for the cold to wear this.
You can't look anything but chic in these.
Stylish and practical.
Style Notes: Throwing on luxe cashmere is always a good idea for a lazy weekend.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Style Notes: My favourite thing abut this look? Retro sneakers are a great way to transition cropped trousers into the weekend.
SHOP THE LOOK:
If you like your basics with a little something extra.
Next Up: The Spring/Summer 2024 Fashion Trends That Really Matter
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Opening image: @smythsisters
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.
-
6 Stylish Influencers Shared Their Ultimate Spring Wish Lists With Me
Exclusively for you.
By Bébhinn Campbell
-
I'm a Fitness-Loving Fashion Editor, These Are My 5 Go-To Leggings
Every brand, tried and tested
By Rebecca Rhys-Evans
-
It's My Job to Find Amazing Shopping Picks—These 9 New Buys Are Too Good to Miss
A fashion editor's favourites.
By Remy Farrell
-
Copenhagen Fashion Week Brands Are Prioritising These 5 Trends for Autumn 2024
The Scandi style gods have spoken.
By Erin Fitzpatrick
-
Grey, Pleated Miniskirts Are Trending Right Now—3 Fresh Ways I’m Styling Mine
Could this skirt complete your spring capsule?
By Natalie Munro
-
I Need VB to Explain How She Got Through Airport Security in These Shoes
This is a pressing matter.
By Eliza Huber
-
This Classy 2-Part Outfit Will Make Getting Dressed So Much Easier This Spring
Your new wardrobe hero.
By Natalie Munro
-
When It Comes to Chic Jumpers, This Anti-Trend Style Is the Main Player
The 15 best on the market.
By Florrie Alexander