Culottes Are the Trouser Trend Set to Define Spring Workwear
When it’s too warm for full-length pants, and shorts aren’t an option, this cropped style offers a perfect middle ground.
Dressing for work during a sweltering heat wave can pose quite the challenge, especially when choosing pants. Sure, you could opt for tailored trousers, but you risk breaking a sweat. On the other hand, thigh-skimming shorts aren’t really an option, particularly if your office dress code leans toward the formal end of the spectrum.
So, what’s the secret to finding a happy medium? The answer lies within a perfectly stitched pair of culottes.
Unlike capris, culottes boast a higher hemline that typically falls somewhere between the knee and calf. The vintage-inspired style is also recognized for its roomy construction, which resembles a skirt split into two parts.
While the billowing silhouette is often considered polarizing, it doesn’t have to be. In fact, the Spring 2026 runways proved that these cropped bottoms are not as intimidating as they seem.
At Fforme, flat-front culottes were paired with ribbed T-shirts and wide-collar trench coats for a transeasonal appeal. Meanwhile, Max Mara embraced a coordinating look with matching blazers, and Celine tapped into spring’s most delectable color trend with a cherry-red shirt sandwich.
Culottes on the Spring 2026 runways of Fforme, Max Mara, and Celine.
Although the outfit formulas pictured above work well for professional settings, culottes aren’t limited to nine-to-five occasions. Beyond glitzy catwalks, street stylers are wearing the look with a variety of casual separates, ranging from midriff-baring cardigans to low-cut tank tops.
Bottom line? Culottes are a versatile choice for the rising temperatures ahead. Whether you’re in the office or off the clock, you’ll want to incorporate a pair or two into your outfit rotation. Ahead, allow Marie Claire to help you do just that. Shop our handpicked edit, featuring a mix of affordable and luxury labels.
Shop Spring’s Culotte Trend
I’ve been on the hunt for a pair of plain black culottes that will effortlessly rotate through my capsule wardrobe. Thanks to Reformation, I just found my match.
With plenty of beach getaways ahead, I plan to snag these breezy bottoms from Banana Republic. Stitched with lightweight linen fabric, they’re perfect for moments by the shore.
Stand apart from the crowd with Gap’s barrel-leg culottes, designed with a spacious shape that commands attention.
Low-rise pants have never been for me. I’ve always preferred higher waistlines that offer a more secure fit. For that very reason, I’ll be adding these Veronica Beard bottoms to my wish list.
While I’m partial toward this delectable chocolate brown colorway, Aritzia’s Parkview Shorts also come in shades of ivory and navy blue.
Anthropologie puts a utilitarian twist on the culotte trend with this laid-back pair of cropped jeans.
I can always count on COS to deliver the most polished work essentials. Take, for example, these chic wool-blend culottes—which will pair well with button-downs and blazers.
If you’re not afraid to show some skin, try Sea’s Arianna slacks. They’re made with delicate lace fabric for a peekaboo effect.
Yes, you can wear suede trousers for spring. Just make sure to pair them with warm-weather staples, like a T-shirt and strappy sandals.
The next time you have post-work happy hour plans, slip into Grlfrnd’s Foster pants. Styled with a sleek blouse and slingbacks, they’ll easily transition from your desk to a cocktail bar.
Culottes are here to stay, so you might as well invest in a premium pair that will endure season after season. I’d recommend these wide-leg shorts from Max Mara, crafted from high-quality pure linen that's made to last.
For those of you who are constantly on the go, consider Favorite Daughter’s Nicole pants. They’re designed with mid-weight stretch fabric for extra comfort.
Defined by a neutral hue and a streamlined silhouette, these culottes from Joe's Jeans are beyond versatile. Wear them with a collared shirt and high-vamp heels for work, or with a tee and sneakers for a chill errand run.
Toccin’s Nina pants practically style themselves with a built-in belt that cinches the entire look.
Priced right under $100, Open Edit’s culottes are a great budget-friendly choice.
These suiting pants from Sacai deliver a touch of texture with dramatic pleats and satin side stripes.
Unlike traditional culottes, Zara’s version boasts an extra-long hemline that falls right around the ankle.
