No Doubt About It: I'm Going to Wear These Easy Anti-Jean Trousers for Months to Come

It hasn't even really got going yet, but I’m already dreading the end of summer. Hasn't it been refreshing to pop some on lightweight clothes, slip into sandals and ditch all of the fussy layers? One wardrobe staple in particular has become such a favourite that I'm inclined to start wearing them all year round: wide-leg linen trousers.

As an editor I spend a lot of time researching trends and analysing street style, and believe me when I say that this failsafe anti-jeans option is something that remains a classic, suits everyone and is easily the comfiest trousers you'll wear all year. I have already been getting heaps of use of of a perfect-fit Totême pair, but the high-street options for looser-leg linen silhouettes abound: COS, H&M, Arket, M&S, Abercomrbie… every retailer has their take on the capsule wardrobe essential, and they're selling like hotcakes. What's more is that I genuinely believe linen trousers can look really chic paired with a leather blazer, a denim shirt or a chunky knit, meaning you actually can take a summery pair into the autumn.

White or cream linen trousers are almost always available from designers and on the high street every summer, but fast-forward to 2024, and there are a few details that have brought the classic trousers well up to date. Look for belted high waists, pleat-fronts, ultra wide-leg silhouettes and new colourways like olive green, khaki and brown. 

This trend has been regularly spotted on influencers as well. Studio Arva owner Abi Omole, previously featured on Best Wardrobes in Britain, pairs her cream trousers with a peach vest and a pistachio cardi. Lorna of Symphony of Silk styles a padded vest with white linen trousers, a Prada bag and Converse shoes, and Jessica Skye has opts for a one-shoulder vest with linen trousers, sandals and a beach-ready raffia bag. 

Meanwhile, in the Who What Wear office, we have a few particular styles that have become our tried-and-tested favourites. Editor-in-chief Hannah Almassi swears by Reformation's Mason pants, Emily Dawes rates multiple M&S pairs, and managing editor Poppy Nash has found the perfect fit at Uniqlo. So, without further ado, scroll on to shop the best wide-leg linen trousers available now.

SHOP MY EDIT OF THE BEST WIDE-LEG LINEN TROUSERS