I'm not sure I'm at all happy about the return of slim-fit trousers, but my work as an editor is to bring you the latest fashion news unaffected by my own style likes and dislikes. I admit that I love wide-leg tailored trousers because I'm not partial to showing my legs, but as they have been booming for quite a few years in a row now, I understand exactly why this is happening. It's the natural cycle of fashion, offering up the opposite silhouette as something fresh again. What's different in this era, however, is that it doesn't automatically mean that baggy trousers have to exit the building just because skinnier ones are coming back. In fact, it's all about finding what works for you. If you enjoy wearing puddle pants, then I say hold onto them forever more!
Emily Dawes in H&M's £28 slim-fit trousers.
Our data backs up the recent rise of slim-fit trousers on the runway. Over one month, 150 pairs of H&M's basic Cigarette Trousers were on their way to our readers. Interest suitably piqued, editor Emily Dawes tried them on and could understand why they were so organically popular—they proved to be an effortless and comfortable take on such a smart wardrobe staple. What's more, they go up to a size 22. It's not as far as we'd like to see that sizing range go, but it's certainly a noticeable step ahead in comparison to many other high-street stores.
If you, like me, still need a little convincing, then I think the starting point to getting back on board with skinny trousers is knowing which shoes look best with them this season The last time I wore slim-fit trousers was during a "fierce" time of stacked platforms and Balmain-worthy shoulder pads. Things have (fortunately) moved on, and there are some more casual and understated ways you can restyle a pair of lean-cut trousers. Keep scrolling for some winter outfit inspiration on which shoes to pair with slim-fit trousers.
How to Wear Slim-Fit Trousers in 2025:
1. KITTEN-HEEL BOOTS
Style Notes: There's something about a kitten heel that feels a little more Left Bank Parisienne rather than Canary Wharf commuter rush. Not to mention, your feet will stay warm and dry throughout those pesky British summer rainy days!
Shop the Look:
The office-famous H&M trousers!
An elegant shoe option.
2. LOAFERS
Style Notes: Is it a coincidence that pared-back loafers and skinny trousers are coming back at the same time? I think not! This is a classic formula that dates way back to midway through last century (not just the noughties), and it still looks just as chic today.
Shop the Look:
The added pleats on this pair sold me.
The ultimate loafers.
3. BALLET FLATS
Style Notes: Treat your slim-fit trousers as you might a pair of wide-legs—just add ballet flats! A combination of comfy flats with tailoring can work as a great high-low option for those days when you want to be casual yet smart.
Shop the Look:
I love the cropped length on this pair.
So many ballet flat-styles to love, so little time.
-
Elegant Dressers in Manhattan Are Trading Suede Flats for This Equally Rich TrendA worthy investment.
-
The Unexpected Shoe Style Fashion People Are Reaching For This SummerHere are seven ways to wear it.
-
32 Shoes From the Nordstrom Half-Yearly Sale That Are Bound to Sell OutShoe refresh ahead.
-
Jorts Are Trending—7 Stylish Shoes to Wear With ThemReady to try them this summer?
-
Oh, Hello! Meet the New It Ugg Boots You'll Spot on Fashion People and CelebsThese are about to be everywhere.
-
Before You Invest In Mesh Flats, Consider the Newer Version I Keep Seeing Fashion People in Lisbon and Miami WearingCopenhagen, New York, and Barcelona, too.
-
I Couldn't Help But Notice That L.A.'s Coolest Dressers Always Wear This Shoe Trend With Black TrousersIf you guessed ballet flats, you'd be wrong.
-
Fashion People in Their 20s and 50s Wear This Flat-Shoe Trend With Skirts to Look ChicHint: It's not loafers.
