Work or Play, These Trousers Will Unlock a World of Chic Outfits

As fantastical as fashion has been lately (think ultra-bright hues, lashings of texture and more embellishment than Liberace's tour wardrobe), there's no point buying into statement pieces unless you have the proper basics to style them with. And no piece is more fundamental in your closet than some expertly cut black trousers. Okay, we get it—they're not the most exciting purchase you'll ever make, but if you put the time into finding the perfect pair for you, we promise the endeavour will be worth it in the long run. Case in point? Your favourite influencers.
From Brittany Bathgate to Tamu McPherson, it seems everyone has been wearing classic black trousers for the last couple of months—and the effects are certainly being felt in the retail space.
Lyst told us that searches for black trousers have increased by 49% month-on-month since the start of 2019, and in the last 14 days, four styles, in particular, have been dominating our shopping baskets. First up, there's a leather trousers from & Other Stories that have been selling faster than discounted Manolos. Culottes are also proving popular, with pairs from Valentino and Gucci cinching a place in the top four. Then, completing the quartet is Nanushka's vegan leather high-waisted trousers.
You can see them for yourself below, but if none of them takes your fancy, we've rounded up the best black trousers to shop now. From Topshop and Dorothy Perkins to Ralph Lauren and Joseph, keep scrolling to add a serious dose of chic to your daily wares.
Following in suit of this season's top denim trend, these straight-leg leather trousers will look great on all body types.
Call off the search—you've just found the perfect culottes.
If leather trousers weren't directional enough for you, feast your eyes on this sculpted high-waisted pair.
These wide-leg strides will look just as cool with chunky sliders as they will elegant court shoes.
THE BEST OF THE REST
From flattering fits to gorgeous detailing, we've rounded up the other black trousers worth investing in.
D-ring buckles are still one of the top details to loom for in office attire.
In our opinion, these trousers look so much more expensive than their price tag.
Paper-bag trousers will help enhance your hourglass silhouette.
Related: Summer 2019 Fashion Trends: Looks You Need to Know
Lace-up detailing will never fail to look sexy—just add a sheer blouse and kitten heels for your next night out.
As classic as black trousers come. Try pairing these strides with box-fresh kicks when you're off-the-clock, too.
Tie-waist fastenings are excellent for flattering your stomach area.
Related: I'm a Minimalist—These Are All the Simple Shoe Styles I Own
Covered buttons always make clothing look more expensive. Case in point? These kick flares.
Cargo trousers are set to make a huge comeback for spring/summer 2019. We advise investing early.
The satin finish will look beautiful paired with a tulle blouse and metallic heels.
If you're a minimalist at heart, then you need to see our try-on session at the high street's best pared-back shops…

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s Deputy Editor and has over fourteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and authoritative content for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, talent interviews self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their search and keyword planning, works closely with the fashion and beauty team on strategy and continues to pen many of her own articles. Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine's contributed to publications including Grazia, InStyle Marie Claire, Elle and Look, amongst others.
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