Each week we leave a question box on our Instagram Stories for your shopping dilemmas, and each week, queries about wide-leg trousers flood in. Trousers in general appear to be the category you all need advice for most, and this week, wide-legs took centre stage.
It was only right then that I dedicated extra time to solving this common shopping problem. So, where to go for the best wide-leg trousers on the high street? And what should you look for? How about if you’re on a budget, or you’re tall, petite or curvy? Keep scrolling, I’ve got you…
Where to buy the best wide-leg trousers in 2023
Staple wide-leg trousers
If you’re looking for a classic no-frills pair that you can have in your weekly workwear rotation without anyone batting an eyelid that your cost-per-wear is down to 10p, this is the style you need to know. Go for navy, camel or black and they’ll slot into any work outfit seamlessly.
Investment wide-leg trousers
When you’re planning to get maximum wear out of them, consider investing a little more on your wide-leg trousers if you can and plumping for the best quality. Massimo Dutti and Jigsaw are the best fit you’ll find on the ‘high high’ street at under £150. Wear them with contrasting blazers and trainers.
Read more on new season workwear:
- The best smart trainers to wear for work in 2023
- The forever blazers that tailoring fans need to know about
- The best Max Mara dupes on the high street now
- From denim to midi dresses, here’s the best of Mango new-in
Wide-leg trousers on a £30 budget
Such a simple cut is a rather safe bet when you need to spend less. If you’re looking to spend under £30, I’d recommend you go for a plain style – prints and bright colour can easily look cheap, while black and navy is infinitely easier to appear more expensive.
Wide-leg trousers if you’re curvy
If you have fuller hips and a smaller waist in comparison, avoid ‘straight’ styles. It’s unlikely they’ll fit at the waist if they fit your thighs since the shape is straight and not hourglass, which means a trip to the tailors. Instead, notice on this Monki pair that they have a rounded shape and a high waist, which is exactly what you want.
Wide-leg trousers if you’re tall
Whether you’re 5ft10 or 5ft6 but all leg, a long trouser is a must as a too-short pair can ruin an otherwise chic outfit.
When you’re trying yours, wear the shoes you would plan to wear them with. The height of chunky trainers will make a difference to the trouser length in comparison to loafers or ballet flats.
The best wide-leg trousers if you’re petite
Our Chloe raves about the ease of ASOS when it comes to buying trousers. Just tick the petite filter and you’re inundated with styles specifically designed for your frame – which makes a haul so much easier. Topshop Petite is an OG on the high street, while Forever New’s petite range is a stylish new entry for us.
Wide-leg trousers if you want to wear them out out
When we talk about getting maximum wear out of your clothes by day, that also includes the ability to dress them up and take them through to your evening plans, too.
Some styles are much more versatile than others, and if one of your main concerns is a dressier pair, head straight for sleek colours like ivory and black, and luxe materials like silk and satin. Wear with a jumper and trainers by day, then a bodysuit and strappy heels by night.
The It wide-leg trousers to try now
Cargo pants are the most on-trend trouser style of the season, so if you’re hoping to buy one thing to bring your spring looks up to date, make it these. Frankie Shop’s sage offering is gorgeous and looks smarter than the typical utility style, but Na-Kd’s are perfect if you want the same look on a budget.
Wide-leg trousers that are essentially smart joggers
Comfort is key, especially if you’re sat at a desk for eight hours a day, so it’s no wonder there were multiple requests for ‘smart jogger’ recommendations. The key elements to look for are an elasticated or tie-waist, super-soft jersey or viscose material, and a loose-fit that hits an inch above the floor.