I'm just going to come right out and say it: Skinny jeans are officially on pause. Sorry if that sounds a little dramatic, but let me explain. No matter how you feel about the revival of the super-slim denim, there's no denying that wide-leg trousers are the reigning silhouette right now, and my own wardrobe is conclusive proof of this.
I recently did a massive wardrobe cleanout and in the process realised that nearly all the trousers and jeans I moved to the 'on pause' were skinny and snug fits. I owned multiple pairs at one point but have since found myself drawn more and more to relaxed trouser silhouettes. It's not just me, even celebs like Sienna Miller are in complete agreement too, plus every fashion person I know. There's something undeniably cool about voluminous, wide-leg trouser, not to mention that they've made more sense than ever over the last couple of years seeing as comfort has become our top priority when getting dressed. The relaxed but still polished trousers just might be the answer to avoiding another sweatpants slump. Plus, they're so versatile, with the ability to be dressed up or down and for all and every season with a simple swap of layers and accessories.
If the above isn't enough, I have a strong feeling that once you see just how chic the fashion world is making wide-leg trousers look, you're going to agree with me here. If you're ready to retire your skinnies, keep scrolling to fill up on wide-leg trouser outfit ideas so you know how to best style shoes, tops and jackets with these looser silhouettes. And, you can shop all the pieces you might need to help recreate the looks.
13 Wide-Leg-Trouser Outfits That Look Good With Everything:
1. Blazer + Wide-Leg Trousers + Pointy Shoes
Style Notes: For transitional weather, pair the roomy trousers with a tailored blazer and if it gets chilly, you can always shoulder robe a jumper or throw on a trench on top.
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Timeless but far from boring.
COS has some of the best wide-leg trousers out there.
These look so expensive, and trust me come spring, they're going to sell out everywhere.
2. Denim Jacket + Wide-Leg Stripe Trousers + Sandals
Style Notes: Throwing on casual stripe trousers is always a good idea for a lazy weekend. For a luxe upgrade, pair with indigo was denim and a barely-there sandal.
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You can't go wrong with a simple denim jacket.
The comfort of a casual cotton trouser is simply unmatched.
A Who What Wear editor favourite.
3. Waistcoat + Wide Leg Tousers + Crossbody Bag
Style Notes: You can't go wrong with a classic waistcoat and tailored trousers combination, especially when the weather starts to warm up. If it's still too mild for sandals, try a suede loafer for the perfect off-duty weekend outfit that says "casual cool".
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I'm excited for the warm to wear this.
You can't look anything but chic in these.
Stylish and practical.
4. Oxford Shirt + Polo Neck + Wide-Leg Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: Layer up a monochrome look with matching hues like aubergine and black, broken up with a fresh pop of white.
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This shirt is made infinitely cooler by the silky finish.
Burgundy is still everywhere at the moment.
The sharp execution is all about that tailored fit.
5. Biker Jacket + Shirt & Tie + Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: Leather and tailoring is always a good idea, especially when you toughen up an office-appropriate ensemble with a cool jacket. Just this season's most discussed accessory—the tie, to bring the look right up to date. .
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Be still my beating heart.
No need to size up for a slouchier fit.
The check makes this feel even smarter.
Such a cool silhouette.
6. White Tee + Maxi Coat + Wide-Leg Chinos
Style Notes: This humble white tee is a great way to make these relaxed pants look a bit more elevated, especially with a belt and longline coat too. Add a leather tote in a near-complementary shade to bring it all together.
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This coat will look perfect with relaxed trousers.
Pair these with denim for the weekend.
You're going to be hard pressed finding me wearing any other trousers this spring.
7. Head-to-Toe Colour Blocking
Style Notes: The fashion girls' go-to way to wear the trousers right now? With various layers in the exact same shade—the easiest way to add laidback appeal to tailoring.
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This instantly elevates an outfit.
Its easy to see why Rohe trousers are a fashion-person fave.
A staple that you will wear all year round.
8. Button-Down Shirt + Wide-Leg Trousers + Trainers
Style Notes: Create an effortless and timeless look when you lean into wardrobe basics like the smart button-down shirt and simple sneakers.
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Wear loosely and roll up the sleeves for maximum style points.
A loose and flowy leg with a high waist—perfection.
These forever-shoes are immune to trends.
9. Crew Neck + Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: Instagram's best dressed are all about giving their trousers a modern minimalist feel by replacing blouses with pared-back knits. Add a pair of flats and a sleek tote for the full effect.
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A comfy crew neck is a year round wonder, come summer you can wear it around your shoulders, and in autumn/winter you can layer up for warmth.
You could also wear as the full co-ord to complete the look.
This is how you complete an outfit.
10. Cut-Out Top + Wide-Leg Pleated Trousers
Style Notes: If you want to dress up casual pleated trousers for evening, I suggest this chic look involving a cutout top and square-toe heels.
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Effortless, evening chic.
So versatile. Pair these with a T-shirt whilst running errands or dress them up with heels.
A pretty sandal that still prioritises comfort.
11. Colour Pop Top + Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: Another current trend that just so happens to look great with wide-leg pants? Bright tops. It doesn't get more impactful than this, especially ahead of the sunnier seasons.
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This literally looks designer.
The stretchy, high waist and wide leg is a winning combo.
I'm obsessed with this colour clash.
12. Form-Fitting Top + Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: Balance out the wide-leg proportion with a form fitting top like Amy's elegant approach to evening dressing that feels right on time for spring. Obsessed.
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It's the off-the-shoulder moment I've been looking for.
To break up the cream.
One of the most versatile basics you can own.
Kitten heels and wide-leg fit might be my new favourite combo.
This story was published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
