I'm in a Relationship With Wide-Leg Pants—Skinny Jeans Are the Collateral Damage

wide-leg trousers

Photo:

@anna__laplaca

I'm just going to come right out and say it: Skinny jeans are officially canceled from my closet. Sorry if that sounds a little dramatic, but let me explain. No matter how you feel about classic denim, there's no denying that looser trouser shapes are the reigning silhouette as far as jeans and pants go, and my own closet is proof of this.

I recently did a massive closet cleanout and realized that nearly all the pants and jeans I ditched were skinny and snug fits. I owned multiple pairs at one point but have since found myself drawn more and more to relaxed pant silhouettes, and the fashion world is in complete agreement. There's something undeniably cool about voluminous wide-leg pants, not to mention they make more sense than ever this year, 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.

I have a strong feeling that once you see just how chic the fashion world is making wide-leg pants look, you're going to agree with me here, so scroll on to fill up on styling ideas and shop my favorite pairs.

Style Tip: For summer, pair the roomy trousers with a pretty puff-sleeve top to soften their tailored feel.

Such a summery puff-sleeve top. 

These are so quiet luxury, I love them. 

how to wear wide-leg pants

Photo:

@greceghanem

Style Tip: Fashion girls' go-to way to wear the pants right now? With an oversize leather jacket and sporty sneakers.

How cool is this moto jacket? And it's under $100. 

This color automatically looks so luxe.

cool outfits with wide-leg pants

Photo:

@cassdimicco

Style Tip: Skip the tailor and let your trousers pool around your ankles for a look that feels very right now.

I'm all about a lightweight knit sweater. 

Linen blend for the warmer months. 

easy outfits with wide-leg pants

Photo:

@smythsisters

Style Tip: Create a timeless look when you lean into wardrobe basics like a button-down shirt and simple sneakers.

Style Tip: Balance out loose-fitting pants with a crop top for an on-trend look.

I'm obsessed with this twist detail.

I own the shorts version of these, and I can attest to their impeccable fit.

While these aren't necessarily a wide leg trouser, these baggy pants also pair well with a simple yet chic crop top. The baggy look gives the same affect as the wide leg as well. 

ways to wear wide-leg pants

Photo:

@sasha.mei

Style Tip: Create a relaxed, casual vibe when you pair a collared shirt with wide-leg trousers and flats.

One of the most versatile basics you can own.

A summer print in a fall-ready color palette.

stylish outfits with wide-leg pants

Photo:

@chainkyr

Style Tip: Another current trend that just so happens to look great with wide-leg pants? Bustier tops.

casual outfits with wide-leg pants

Photo:

@fakerstrom

Style Tip: Fashion girls are all about giving their suits a modern feel by dressing them down with tees and sneakers.

This New Balance silhouette is bubbling up more.

Style Tip: A crisp white tee is a perfect way to wear a pair of bright trousers.

Perfect whether or not you live in the City of Angels.

A pretty addition to your necklace stack.

fancy outfits with wide-leg pants

Photo:

@femmeblk

Style Tip: A delicate blouse is a great way to make these relaxed pants look a bit more elevated.

Pair these with a pretty top and sandals.

wide-leg pant outfits

Photo:

@lefevrediary

Style Tip: Try something fitted up top and sleek for the shoes to offset the wide-leg fit of the pants.

One of Reformation's best-selling trousers.

Style Tip: Throwing on a big blazer is always a good idea. 

The boxier the blazer, the better.

outfits with wide-leg pants and sneakers

Photo:

@dwfashion

Style Tip: Retro sneakers are a great way to transition the trousers into the weekend.

If you like your basics with a little something extra.

If they're good enough for Hailey Bieber…

Style Tip: If you want to dress them up, I suggest copying this chic look with a cute top and square-toe heels.

The coolest trousers Ref has ever had. 

Style Tip: Tuck a chunky knit sweater (or sweater-vest) into high-waisted pants when the weather starts to cool off.

Sweater-vest season is almost upon us.

This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated. Next: These Are Officially the Trendiest Jeans at Nordstrom, H&M, and Shopbop