I'm Sorry, or You're Welcome—2025 Marks the Skinny-Pant Era, so Here Are 8 Looks to Try

Trouser styles and pants in general tend to move at an especially glacial pace, cycling in and out a decade at a time, so when a shift does happen for our go-to trousers, it's newsworthy. Well, you may not like what I'm about to say next, but I can state with confidence that we're entering a new era of skinny pants. Whether or not we're all ready, skinny trousers are coming for our closets once again.
After popping up on the spring 2025 runways at Prada, Sportmax, Proenza Schouler, and more, the silhouette is now starting to make its way onto the street and, therefore, onto our feeds. If the idea still shocks you, I'd bet good money that at least one of the eight skinny-pant outfits below will have you warming up to the slim-fitting look. Don't say I didn't warn you. Up ahead, see eight fresh ways to style cigarette pants that are chic, polished, approachable, and very 2025.
When it comes to styling any pair of skinny pants, it's all about creating interesting shapes. Claire Rose had the right idea, pairing hers with a sculpted peplum-hem top that gives off a beautiful silhouette even though her overall outfit is monochrome.
Jasmine Tookes's styling idea makes her legs look miles long, but it's really quite simple. Opt for trousers with a high rise and tuck a billowy blouse into them, finishing the look off with a sleek belt cinched at the waist. A pair of pointed-toe slingbacks brings it all together.
I love this idea because it's shockingly simple—just black pants and a relaxed sweater—but still so striking. Use the combo as the canvas for a few standout pieces of jewelry and a great pair of flats.
If you are itching to add a trendy element to the mix, a cinch-waist jacket is just what the doctor ordered. Whether you opt for a Phoebe Philo–esque elasticated waistband or a belted version, it creates a nice silhouette that offsets the pants' slim fit.
Of course, we can't talk about a new trouser trend without mentioning pantsuits, and this retro Staud suit is perfect in every way, from its slim-fit pants to its shrunken blazer and color.
Shoes can really make or break it here, so pay attention to styles that are ultra-sleek like a pair of pointed-toe flats.
Usually when wearing something fitted, I'd suggest balancing it out with something roomier, but there's something about this sleeveless turtleneck and skinny pants that just, well, works. I think the pumps and slit hems are what keep it all looking elevated.
When can you really go wrong with a pair of black pants and a white shirt? Honestly never. Take notes from how Andrea Ricci finished off the tried-and-true duo with a wide waist belt to add even more dimension.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
Anna is an NYC-based senior fashion editor who has been a member of the Who What Wear team for over seven years, having begun her career in L.A. at brands like Michael Kors and A.L.C. As an editor, she has earned a reputation for her coverage of breaking trends, emerging brands, luxury shopping curations, fashion features, and more. Anna has penned a number Who What Wear cover interviews, including Megan Fox, Julia Garner, and Lilly Collins. She also leads the site’s emerging travel vertical that highlights all things travel and lifestyle through a fashion-person lens.
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