Trousers have come a long way from their reputation as the obligatory officewear piece or, dare I say it, their longstanding affinity with schoolwear *shudders*. We’ve all been there, forcibly scouring the high street as pre-teens for less-than-inspiring bootcut slacks. Now, however, they’re hailed as a hero piece—a wardrobe essential we’ve welcomed into our adult uniform with open arms. The circular nature of fashion has resulted in trousers of all sorts gaining some traction over the last couple of years.
Through pop culture icons such as Diane Keaton in everything from Annie Hall to Baby Boom, Melanie Griffith in Working Girl and, of course, Princess Di circa the 1990s, it’s clear to see the power of a woman in a strong trouser look through the eyes of fashion history. Let’s not forget the Parisian influence. The French do trouser outfits year-round paired with a stone trench and ballet pumps for an understated look.
However, I'm of the opinion that you don't need to spent a fortune to upgrade your outfits as such—the high street has produced some timeless trousers with beautiful compositions and fits to see you through the years. When it comes to picking trousers on the high street, it’s all in the detail. A tapered waist or the addition of belt loops offer versatility, as you’re able to pull in the waist and accentuate the length. Also, look for quality tailoring. Pressed creases and darting provide a more pronounced shape, giving styles a high-end look. From sweeping palazzo pants and tapered-leg trousers to relaxed wide-leg styles and chinos, there is something to suit all styles.
The styling options are endless. A barely there open back or boat-neck vest is my favourite way of styling simple trousers for the evening. Throughout the day, I wear mine with a button-down shirt and heeled boots or trainers, depending on my mood. Day-to-day trouser looks is here to stay, and I can’t say I’m complaining. Here are the best high-street trousers to consider investing in this season.
Shop the Best High-Street Trousers on the Market
H&M's wide-leg trousers never hang around for long.
Leather trousers of this quality are like gold dust on the high street.
Reformation's iconic Mason trousers come in an array of colours and sizing options.
Never before have leggings looked so chic.
The chicest cargos on the high street, hands down.
Wool trousers always have a premium feel about them.
Such a great set.
This colour is so rare, even in the designer market.
Cigarette trousers are just as current-feeling as wide-leg strides.
An elevated take on the tailored trouser.
Some will say jeans don't belong in a trouser edit, and I'd usually agree! But these are too good not to share here.
Marks Spencer's linen trousers are already being searched for on Google, they're that good.
These also come in elegant navy.
I just added these to my basket for a springtime hit.
Pinstripe trousers are a major trend this season in their own right.
Seriously, how do I not own navy trousers already?
Slightly flared silhouettes always look stylish.
A frugal way to tap into the silver trouser trend.
Barrel and horseshoe silhouettes keep cropping up this season. Now I've pointed them out, you're going to start noticing them everywhere.
Chic, chic, chic!
How's that for a wide-leg.
The contrast waistband gives this Zara pair a unique selling point.
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