The best tailored trousers take seconds to pull on, but they instantly feel more elevated than any other pants. Whether I’m racing to get dressed for a busy day in the office or I’m hurrying to meet friends for an overdue night out, I know that well-cut slacks will make me feel put-together (and look the opposite of rushed). Even when I wear them with the most basic top—like a white T-shirt or a button-down—they convey a strong sense of sophistication.
This fall, I’m reaching for single- and double-pleat trousers drenched in neutral shades. My personal favorite? Aritzia’s sleek Effortless Pants, defined by a relaxed silhouette and puddle hemlines. Madewell’s High-Rise Barrel-Leg Pants are another must-have in my style playbook—impeccably stitched with a billowing construction. These bottoms might look like something off a quiet luxury mood board, their appeal will outlast the trend.
Ahead, you’ll discover all the tailored trousers that have earned a special place in my capsule wardrobe, plus several options that rank high on my wish list. (You’ll even find that I’ve included a number of styling tips for your convenience.) These pieces are guaranteed to provide an instant outfit enhancement, no matter what occasion you're dressing for this season.
Shop the Best Tailored Trousers
Go ahead and incorporate this sharp look into your work outfit rotation.
Staud’s Jerome pleated pants are the quintessential everyday trousers. With a neutral hue and a simple shape, every detail is made for outfit repeating. Dress these pants up with a soft sweater, a trench coat, and some black boots for fall.
When I think of the all-time best basics, The Frankie Shop immediately comes to mind. The brand's simple but stunning 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 the Daytona trousers, a wide-cut pair of pants that can slot into an outfit formula with ease.
You know the feeling of stepping into a narrow pair of pants and discovering an awkward gap in the waist? Well, Madewell designed a trouser that makes this quirk a distant memory. With a high-rise waistband and and a barrel silhouette, you don't need to worry about gaping fabric (or needing a belt).
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 frames. 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.
When Hailey Bieber debuted her capsule collection with Wardobe.NYC in 2022, the line featured versatile essentials that fulfilled every minimalist's dream. If I had to select a favorite piece from the collection, I’d choose these trousers, which have a voluminous shape and an easy-to-style color palette.
Zara's long pants are especially good when you have a dress code requiring heels. Whether you're in the office or out for dinner with friends, the brand's tailored pants are the perfect companion to your favorite pair of stilettos, which will let the hem 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 them to gather around your ankles for a puddling effect.
Reformation’s Gale pants put a sultry twist on tailored trousers with satin fabric. Style these with the brand's matching top for an elegant edge.
While most tailored trousers are cut with a bit of room, slim-fit pants like Theory's offer a more contoured design that are great for playing with proportions. Just add a top with more volume.
A flared silhouette can bring more character to an outfit without overwhelming it. Uniqlo's bootcut tailored trousers have a nice bell-bottom shape that gives them a fun sense of movement.
For sweltering fall days that feel more like summer, slip into Everlane's linen trousers. These breathable pants will keep you nice and cool.
Anyone who's drawn toward retro pieces will fall head over heels for Favorite Daughter's houndstooth trousers. This pair could have easily 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 old-school appeal.
Not every pair of trousers can last in your wardrobe all year round, but these pleated pants from & Other Stories 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 Effortless 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: Veronica Beard's pants are a fascinating hybrid between the typical silhouette and the convenience of cargos, with its large belt loops and side flap pockets.
For your next going-out outfit, try a pair of leather trousers. (At more casual offices, this can be made to feel work-appropriate with an oversized cashmere cardigan half-tucked into the waistband.)
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.
