Despite spending my days writing about, analysing and cataloguing trends, every so often a new-season shift sneaks past me—until suddenly, it’s everywhere. That’s exactly what happened with this one. It wasn’t until a colleague casually pointed it out that I realised just how widespread this subtle trend had become. She was right: this season, every fashion-forward person I know seems to be ditching baby tees and jeans in favour of long tops worn over trousers.
This styling trick marks a noticeable shift away from the dominance of cropped, midriff-baring silhouettes that ruled recent seasons. In their place comes a more refined, grown-up approach that embraces length and fluidity. Tops are falling well below the hip, hovering somewhere between the upper thigh and knee. Playing with proportions, that trend elongates the torso and skims the body, creating a silhouette that feels relaxed and elegant.
While long tops of all kinds are having a moment, there’s one pairing in particular that fashion people are gravitating toward the most: the lace-trim top styled over wide-leg trousers or floaty, relaxed-fit bottoms. This easy, breezy combination grazes the frame—never clinging—keeping you cool in the heat while retaining an effortless sophistication that feels just right for late summer dressing. Come autumn, simply layer a soft knit over the top and allow the delicate lace or silky hem to peek out underneath, adding depth and texture to your transitional outfits.
Really, though, the options are endless. Short slip dresses, tunic-length camisoles or asymmetric-hem tops can all be styled in the same way. I'm willing to bet you'll already have pieces in your wardrobe that work, making this styling trick one that's cost free, too. However, if you’re keen to invest, brands are offering plenty of chic new iterations this season.
Graceful, grown-up and surprisingly low-effort, read on to shop my edit of the best long tops and the trousers to wear with them.
Shop Long Tops and Trousers:
I'd easily believe you if you told me this was designer.
The brown slip above will look gorgeous paired with cream strides like this.
Shop this while it's on sale.
Try black on black for a cool evening look.
You know long tops are a thing when The Row gets involved.
Red trousers are a huge trend right now.
This also comes in four other shades.
The pleats give these trousers the most beautiful drape.
Style this with jeans or wear it with a flowing trouser.
A long top makes sheer trousers much more wearable day to day.
This stunning top also comes in black.
Capris also work with this trend.
Add a pop of colour to your summer rotation.
Why not try doubling up on silky textures.
This looks so much more expensive than it actually is.
Mirror the shape of an asymmetric top with a pair of flared trousers.
This elegant plum shade is perfect for pre-autumn styling.
For a '90s look, try a lace camisole with grey tailored trousers.
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