These Trousers Are a Capsule-Wardrobe Staple—7 Fresh Ways to Wear Them That Are Sure to Invite Compliments

Black trousers are gradually taking the place of jeans as a steadfast wardrobe classic. As we approach the period for transitional dressing, we've pulled 7 chic outfits incorporating black trousers.

black trouser outfits for autumn
(Image credit: @monikh @_marisamartins_ @annelauremais)
By
last updated
Contributions from
in Features

Style may be personal, but certain pieces have universal appeal. True-blue jeans, classic LBDs and cosy knitwear are staples that exist in nearly everyone’s wardrobe. Today, I'm spotlighting one that has always held a special place in mine: black trousers.

Black trousers have been a constant in my closet, evolving with me through every phase of my twenties—and even earlier (looking at you, American Apparel disco pants). They may come in many shapes and sizes, from kick-flares to wide-leg silhouettes, but their versatility is never up for debate. The reason is simple: black goes with literally everything. With a timeless noir foundation, you have the freedom to be bold with the top half of your outfit, experimenting with colour, pattern and texture.

That said, my favourite black trouser outfits lean into the elegance this piece naturally exudes. Admittedly, bright colours make me nervous, so I tend to stick with a neutral palette that lets the black take centre stage, rather than fade into the background. The following seven looks are prime examples, showcasing how effortlessly chic these “boring” trousers can be with minimal effort.

7 Black Trouser Outfits to Copy This Winter

1. Wool Coat + Wide-Leg Trousers + Loafers

Black trouser outfits: @lizzyhadfield wears a beige coat with wide-leg trousers and loafers

(Image credit: @lizzyhadfield)

Style Notes: A wool coat and black trousers pairing is what I live in all autumn and winter long. Throw in some masculine-style loafers, and you've got yourself a versatile formula for both your work and weekend outfit rotation.

Shop the Look:

2. Cardigan + Loose-Fit Trousers + Loafers

Black trouser outfits: @_marisamartins_ wears a cardigan with black tailored trousers

(Image credit: @_marisamartins_)

Style Notes: It's important to have some tried-and-tested classic outfits in your arsenal. Marisa's elegant look incorporates wardrobe staples—a cardigan and tailored trousers—this retains a timeless feel.

Shop the Look:

3. Relaxed Blazer + Tapered Trousers + Chunky Boots

Black trouser outfits: @_livmadeline wears a blazer with tapered black trousers and boots

(Image credit: @_livmadeline)

Style Notes: Not a fan of the wide-leg look? Choose a tapered cut and reserve the boxy proportions for the top half of your outfit with a roomy blazer. Easy peasy.

Shop the Look:

4. Black Maxi Coat + Tailored Trousers + Trainers

Black trouser outfits: @anoukyve wears a long black coat with tailored trousers and trainers

(Image credit: @anoukyve)

Style Notes: Colour me boring, but I always feel so chic stepping out in an all-black outfit. Plus, it requires little to no effort to assemble. If you're craving a hint of colour, complete the look with a green or burgundy sneaker.

Shop the Look:

5. Burgundy Jumper + Wide-Leg Trousers + Square-Toe Boots

Black trouser outfits: @aysha.sow wears a burgundy jumper with black trousers

(Image credit: @aysha.sow)

Style Notes: Instead of reaching for a pair of jeans to wear with your favourite jumper, next time opt for a pair of tailored wide-leg trousers and square-toe boots. Just as comfortable, but so much more polished.

Shop the Look:

6. White T-shirt + Barrel-Leg Trousers + Flip Flops

Black Trousers

(Image credit: @monikh)

Style Notes: You may attribute black trousers to formal occasions but here Monikh shows how you to style black trousers casually with a loose fitting leg and this seasons hot take on the flip flop, courtesy of The Row.

Shop the Look:

7. Fringe Suede Jacket + Flared Trousers + Ballet Flats

Autumn Black Trouser Outfits

(Image credit: @annelauremais)

Style Notes: A simple way to elevate your trouser outfits is with a showstopping jacket and this season, suede is back and bigger than ever.

Shop the Look:

Bébhinn Campbell
Freelance Fashion Editor

Bébhinn Campbell is an Edinburgh-based fashion and lifestyle writer and editor. She started her first blog at age 14 and went on to intern at publications in Berlin and London, including Dazed Confused and Indie magazine.

A job at a fashion startup took Bébhinn from Ireland to Scotland in 2019, where she now works as a freelance journalist and copywriter covering everything from travel and interiors to styling advice. As a contributor toBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing , Bébhinn always keeps her eyes peeled for emerging trends and looks worth writing about. She prides herself on her ability to cut through the noise and identify solid investment buys, exciting new brands and fresh takes on classic design.

With contributions from
Latest
You might also like
View More ▸