The Perfect Tailored Trousers Can Transform Your Entire Look

Say hello to Staud’s Luisa pleated pants, the quintessential everyday trousers. With a neutral hue and a simple shape, every detail was chosen for easy outfit repeating. For the winter season, dress these pants up with a soft sweater, a trench coat, and some black boots.

When I think of the all-time best basics, The Frankie Shop immediately comes to mind. Their stunningly simple pieces, worn by minimalist muses like Katie Holmes and Kendall Jenner, are perfect for building an uncomplicated wardrobe. If you’re aiming for a no-frills approach to dressing, invest in their Ripley trousers, a wide-cut pair of black pants that can slot into an outfit formula with ease.  

Curvy shoppers know the feeling of stepping into a narrow pair of pants and discovering an awkward gap in the waist. Madewell finally designed a trouser that makes this quirk a distant memory. With a contoured waistband and extra room at the hip, the Harlow wide-leg pants were designed to eliminate gaping fabric (and the need for a belt along with it). 

I love wearing tailored trousers, but I can’t stand it when the hem drags across the floor. Standing at around five feet four inches tall, I constantly run into this problem—but I've found a solution in a few select pants designed specifically for petite sizes. I recently came across J.Crew’s wide-leg trousers in the "Burnished Saddle" shade, and I’m set on making them my new go-to pair. In addition to the petite-friendly proportions, these trousers are cut from four-way stretch fabric that's comfortable enough to wear all day.

When Hailey Bieber debuted her capsule collection with Wardobe.NYC in 2022, she introduced a line of versatile essentials that fulfilled every minimalist's dream. If I had to select a favorite piece from the collection, I’d choose these wide leg trousers, which have a flattering voluminous shape and an easy-to-style color palette.

Shona Joy’s long Irena pants are fitting for all sorts of occasions, especially ones with a dress code requiring heels. Whether you're in the office or you’re out for an evening dinner with friends, slipping into a pair of stilettos will let the hem of these tailored pants hover just above the ground. Heels aren’t required to enjoy this high-rise trouser, of course. You can also wear ballet flats or sneakers, allowing the hem to gather around your ankles for a puddling effect. 

Let's say your trouser collection has already covered basic neutrals. Which pair comes next? A.L.C.'s pinstripes are the answer. Not only will they look upscale and a little vintage, but they’ll also feel ultra plush, as they’re crafted with a luxe wool fabric blend.

Reformation’s Stevie pants put a playful twist on tailored trousers with an exposed waistband resembling a collar. Style these bottoms with a crop top to flaunt its unique design.

While most tailored trousers are cut with a bit of room, slim-fit pants are also an option. Theory's RLX pants feature a contoured design that's fitted through the thigh. Pair these pants with a spacious top to balance out proportions.

A flared silhouette can bring more energy to an outfit without overwhelming it. Vince's bootcut tailored trousers have a nice bell-bottom shape that gives them a bit of character (and a fun sense of movement).

One glance at Everlane's linen trousers, and I’m already daydreaming about spending summertime weekends by the ocean. During balmy summer days, I know these breathable pants will keep me nice and cool. And for the office, Everlane also carries an editor-approved chino version in the same relaxed, single-pleat cut.

Anyone who's drawn toward vintage-esque pieces will fall head over heels for ASTR the Label's checked trousers. This pair easily could have been designed in the '70s and discovered like a long-lost grail at a vintage boutique years later. Coordinate yours with earthy brown accessories to really amp up the retro appeal.

Not every pair of trousers can last in your wardrobe all year round. & Other Stories’ pleated trousers are the exception. They're created with an insulated wool blend, making them a great choice for chilly winter days or breezy spring evenings.

Aritzia's satin pants are an investment-worthy piece, particularly if you value comfort above all. The soft texture and flowy construction will allow you to move around with ease while looking super sophisticated; they're even relaxed enough to wear while traveling.

These aren’t your ordinary tailored trousers. Frame's pants are a fascinating hybrid that features a typical trouser-like silhouette and specific design elements that are often found on cargos, like large belt loops and side flap pockets. 

For your next going-out outfit, slip into a pair of leather trousers with some undeniable edge. (At more casual offices, this pair is also work-appropriate with an oversized cashmere cardigan half-tucked into the waistband.) Since these pants are a bit cropped at the hem, consider wearing a pair of ankle boots to balance out the look. 

Elevate your travel capsule wardrobe with Alo Yoga’s snug tailored trousers. They’re made with a cozy cotton blend for comfort, but they also feature a pleated front for a refined feel.