Fashion trends come and go all the time, but since their resurgence a few years ago, wide-leg pants have shown impressive staying power. I’m not surprised, nor do I have any complaints, about the shift toward more relaxed silhouettes. Like many of you, I embraced 70s-inspired looks that prioritized comfort and versatility.
For me–a busy mom who is passionate about classic and effortless style–trousers are a no-brainer. These menswear-inspired pants personify quiet confidence and effortless style. They are also impressively versatile, giving you tons of styling options, and available in numerous styles, ensuring there’s a trouser pant for everyone. If you’re not sure where to start, you’ve come to the right place. Today I’m sharing a round-up of ways to wear trouser pants for different occasions. Let’s get started.
How To Wear A Trouser
Between getting dressed everyday and curating styles for UNNISHOP, I’ve spent a good amount of time learning about fashion and what it takes to put together a stylish outfit. Because of their supreme versatility, and the fact that they’re so darn comfortable, trousers have become one of my most worn wardrobe essentials for women. I want to talk a bit about how they should fit and share some tips on how to style trousers in hopes that you’ll see them in the same light I do.
What Are Trouser Pants?
Trouser pants, or “trousers,” generally refers to a style of pants that are designed for more formal occasions. Typically more tailored in both appearance and fit, trousers come in styles ranging from formal dress pants to more casual attire depending on the material and construction of the pants, with variations including slim-fit, wide-leg, straight-leg, and high-waisted.
How Should Trousers Fit?
Women’s trousers should sit comfortably at the waist. A good rule of thumb is to ensure you have enough room in your waistband for two fingers–not too snug but not loose. They should drape smoothly over your rear and the top of your thighs, but not so much so that the material sags. You should also be able to fit comfortably without the material billowing at the front.
The length, however, depends on the style of the trousers as well as your height. Straight-leg pants should hit just below your ankle bone, at the top of your shoes, while ankle pants should hit just above the ankle bone. Wide-leg pants should hit right above your shoe line.
The easiest way to determine trouser inseam length is to use your height:
- 5’2″–5’4″: 26″ inseam
- 5’5″–5’8″: 28″ inseam
- 5’9″–5’10”: 30″ inseam
- 5’11″–6’1″: 32″ inseam
How To Style Trousers 5 Ways
With A Casual Pullover
Pair your trousers with a casual pullover for a chic laidback, everyday look. This look is pretty standard for me when I’m running errands or dropping off and picking the kids.
For casual days when I want to be comfortable but don’t want to look like a total slob, I reach for these wide-leg pants from Varley and the matching pullover.
With A Sweater
High-waisted trousers can be styled with a sweater to create an elegant cold weather outfit. Cropped sweaters are a great option, but since I love monochromatic looks, I paired these wide-leg trousers with this black Cross Shoulder Cashmere Merino Sweater from Elie Tahari for a sleek all-black outfit.
With A Denim Jacket
My denim jacket is probably the most worn item in my closet. I wrote an entire post on how to style a denim jacket, but one of my favorite ways to wear it is with a white tee and relaxed-fit pants, like these wide-leg belted dress pants. Keep things casual with your shoes. To me, Adidas Sambas are the perfect street-style sneaker.
With An Oversized Blazer
You can also pair trousers with an oversized blazer for a polished and trouser outfit. For example, create an elevated neutral-toned look with these wide press-crease trousers from & Other Stories by pairing them with this classic blazer from Aritzia. A black lace embroidered cami and gorgeous beige or black pumps pull it all together.
With A Basic Top
Further showcasing the versatility of trousers, you can also style them with a basic top, like a tank or tee, for an easy everyday look. Seriously, you’re only as limited as your imagination, so challenge yourself to create different looks with the basic tops in your wardrobe.
Trousers are stylish, timeless, versatile, and a must for every woman.
I can’t say enough how much I appreciate a good pair of pants. Trousers are just as comfortable as they are stylish, and give you unlimited outfit options all year long. If you haven’t yet added them to your wardrobe, this is your sign to grab a pair.
For more of my favorite wardrobe essentials, check out this post.
