If You're Bored of Jeans, Try These 6 Chic Alternatives for Autumn

Jeans have many redeeming qualities. The humble wardrobe staple is probably my most-worn item, after all, especially during the transitional months in autumn and spring when the dress code is so often up in the air. Jeans and a fresh T-shirt or crisp button-down is my absolute go-to outfit since it works with various layers and accessories for so many occasions. The problem is, like anything you do on repeat, after a while, it can get a little—shall we say—uninspiring. So having some easy alternatives in the bank to turn to on busy mornings is never a bad thing.
After a long time spent researching autumn outfit inspiration for my own wardrobe, I’m here to round up the six best jeans alternatives I’ve come across that happen to work perfectly for the season ahead, including every fashion person’s latest obsession (tailored wide-leg trousers) and slip skirts that are probably much comfier than your favourite denim. And the good news is that they all go just as easily with your favourite T-shirt or tank top, striped knit or trench coat.
Below, you’ll find my full list of autumn alternatives that should hopefully inspire you to think outside the box a little when getting dressed in the morning (like they did for me) as well as curated shopping picks for each section, including only the best items I can recommend. Keep scrolling to see and shop.
1. Tailored Trousers
SHOP THE LOOK
2. Leather Trousers
SHOP THE LOOK
3. Miniskirt
SHOP THE LOOK
4. Cargo Pants
SHOP THE LOOK
5. Slip Skirt
SHOP THE LOOK
6. Pleated Trousers
SHOP THE LOOK
Up Next: I Just Tested H&M's Cult Wide-Leg Trousers for Autumn—Here's My Verdict

Emily Dawes is an editor, stylist and writer with over 12 years in the industry. Known for impeccable taste, our readers trust her advice, especially in her top-selling column, expensive-looking high street buys. Working for Who What Wear UK since 2020, Emily has been a contributing editor, branded content editor and affiliate editor. Now, as senior shopping editor, she leads the e-commerce content strategy. After obtaining a BA in English and American Studies from Nottingham University, Emily interned at The Mail on Sunday’s YOU. As the magazine’s fashion editor, she managed the fashion team and travelled the globe to style and direct fashion editorials and celebrity cover shoots. As a freelancer, she styled Grazia cover shoots, developed brand marketing and content plans and worked with VIP clients including Elizabeth Day.
-
Olivia Munn Just Wore the Only Denim Trend That Could Disrupt Skinny Jeans' Resurgence
Elegance personified.
-
Linen Pants! Full Skirts! Long Shorts! Zara Has Every Single Chic Bottoms Trend—40 Picks That Are Worth Your Attention
Good luck picking just one.
-
3 Aesthetic Pairings to Try If Your Wardrobe's Starting to Feel Stale
Foolproof solutions.
-
Not Skinny, Not Wide-Leg—the Specific Denim Trend Frequent Flyers Always Wear to the Airport With Sneakers
"Just right" jeans.
-
On the Streets of NY, It Girls With Expensive Taste Know to Never Wear Skinny Jeans With This Outfit
Swap in either of these denim styles instead.
-
Hold the Sneakers—These Are the Elegant Shoes Parisians Are Wearing With the Jeans of Summer
Elevated and chic. Period.
-
I Can't Stand It When People Follow These Fashion Rules to a T
It's time to break the rules.
-
10 Style Tips That Will Make You Look Rich This Summer
Number four is already trending.