If I’m running out of the door, odds are the first thing I throw on is a pair of jeans. Using the3-word method, I’d call them versatile, comfortable, and cool. But, having cycled through my few favorite pairs time and time again, they’re starting to feel a bit stale. Especially in the midst of winter, when most of my skirts, dresses, and shorts get relegated to the back of my closet, it’s time to invite a few new pants options into the mix.
Currently, there are three styles that I’ve had my eye on in particular. Firstly, the corduroy, a humble, comfortable pant that can look surprisingly elevated thanks to its luscious texture. Second, pleated trousers, tailored pants with a relaxed attitude that I think works for so much more than the office. Lastly, I’m focused on track pants, which thanks to labels like Gucci and Loewe have gotten a dressy twist — they’re no longer relegated to working out. With each style, you’ll find relaxed silhouettes for weekends, structured shapes for work, and even cropped options to show off yournew sneakers.
If you’re ready to add these stylish denim alternatives into your winter wardrobe, I’m laying out my favorite options below, so don’t be afraid to choose one of each to maximize your pant options for the months ahead.
Courduroy
(Image credit: @theannaedit)
Winter is all about embracing cozy, lush textures like corduroy. Its woven wales are soft and velvety to the touch, adding not only extra warmth but a lush hand feel to pair with anything from casual cotton to slinky silk.
J.Crew
Wide-leg corduroy trouser
Wide-leg trousers are a staple for the office.
Agolde
Low Slung Baggy Cotton-Corduroy Wide-Leg Pants
The casual fit of these baggy cords is perfect for a weekend look.
Everlane
The Corduroy Way-High Pant
Swap your jeans for a different pair of blue pants.
Rag & Bone
Casey High Waist Corduroy Flare Pants
If you prefer a little flare, these pants are our pick.
Madewell
Wide-Leg Corduroy Pants
Style these wide-leg pants with a crew-neck sweater for a polished combo.
Faherty
Corduroy Wide Leg Pants
Update your winter whites with a pair of cords.
Eileen Fisher
High Waist Ankle Straight Leg Corduroy Pants
An all black look is always polished.
H&M
Corduroy Pants
The perfect preppy staple.
Sea
Cooper Corduroy Wide Leg Pants
Wide-leg cords are almost as cozy as sweats.
Pleated Trousers
(Image credit: @taffymsipa)
During winter, I'm more inclined to break out structured, polished pieces which is why I'm loving pleated trousers. A looser fitting pair is as comfortable as sweats, but fitting for important meetings.
Mango
Pleat Straight Trousers
The relaxed silhouette of these trousers make them perfect for dressing down.
The Reformation
Mason Pant
Impress your boss with these stylish trousers.
Vince
Satin Wide Leg Pants
You can easily tuck a button-down into these high-waisted pants. Just finish with a belt.
1.State
Front Pleat High Waist Wide Leg Pants
Don't be afraid to try a little color.
Favorite Daughter
The Shortie Favorite Pants
Neutrals will work with other neutrals or paired with pops of color.
By Malene Birger
Cymbria Pleated Twill Wide-Leg Trousers
A cropped trouser is ideal for showing off your shoes.
& Other Stories
Pleated Trousers
Try investing in trousers and a matching blazer or vest.
Zara
Pleated Trousers
Style voluminous bottoms with a more fitted top.
Betusline
Straight Leg Trousers
Wear them with sneakers on the weekend.
Track Pants
(Image credit: @annelauremais)
Track pants aren't just for gym class. In fact, the style is a comfortable option that you can use to balance out dressier tops or shoes. Our favorite way to wear a pair of track pants is with tailored winter pieces like a trench coat or wool jacket.
Wales Bonner
Three-Stripe Recycled-Polyester Track Pants
These stylish track pants come courtesy of Adidas and Wales Bonner.
Free People
End Zone Track Pants
A relaxed silhouette is ideal for a weekend spent running errands.
H&M
Track Pants
Try styling black track pants with heels for a cool night-out look.
Nike
Air Dri-FIT Running Pants
Style your cropped track pants with a pair of red socks.
Zara
Soccer Pants
Great for the pitch, or hitting the pub afterwards.
Norma Kamali
Side-Stripe Cotton-Blend Jersey Track Trousers
No one will be able to tell if you wear heat-tech under these.
The Upside
Franca Striped Organic Cotton-Jersey Track Pants
A little pop of color will lift your wintery spirits.