Let's cut to the chase: The anti-trend pant trend of the season has arrived, and it's poised to dethrone trusty white, black, and blue jeans. Enter chinos—a silhouette that's been quietly gaining attention this spring, and it's not the slim-fit, preppy iteration you remember from the '90s and early 2000s. No, this is a completely reimagined take that's designed with wide legs, a high-quality and lightweight cotton fabrication, structured pleats, a belted waistband, and that effortlessly sophisticated khaki hue.
At first glance, elevated chino pants are deceptively simple, but don't let their minimalistic exterior fool you. This style acts as a foundation, offering endless opportunities for creative styling through color, texture, and shape. The spring/summer 2025 runway collections made a compelling case for this versatile staple, pairing chinos with everything from tough leather jackets to airy linen shirts and footwear that ranged from sandals to pointed-toe boots.
As the new season shifts into full bloom, now is the time to invest in a pair of these luxurious chinos. Think of them as the ultimate transitional piece—perfect for easing you into the lighter, breezier looks we'll all be sporting throughout late spring, summer, and even the early days of fall. Whether paired with chunky knit sweaters or delicate sheer blouses, these pants promise a world of styling potential.
Keep reading to see how this anti-denim silhouette was styled on the runways and how the fashion-forward set is already wearing them with ease. Of course, I've also rounded up the best pairs to shop for now.
On the spring/summer 2025 runways:
Victoria Beckham S/S 25 Show
Tod's S/S 25 Show
SaraWong S/S 25 Show
Shop the best elevated chinos:
As a woman on a budget, I had to prioritize the affordable but expensive-looking option.
These have been on my wish list for far too long. I believe it's time to add them to my rotation.
No notes.
Style Notes: Achieving a chic look with this pant style doesn't require much effort. As Anouk Yve demonstrates, simply pairing the bottoms with a white quarter-sleeve top and black heels is enough to look put-together.
*Adds to cart.*
Who What Wear editors always come back to COS for its wardrobe essentials.
One thing about Theory is that the brand creates the most comfortable pants.
Style with the matching Organic Cotton-Twill Shirt ($500).
The intricate pleats, voluminous wide legs, and simple button-closure waistband are all exquisite touches.
Chinos paired with a navy top form an outfit I never realized I needed to re-create.
Style Notes: The pairing of utilitarian and sporty designs is a trend I keep seeing, so it makes sense that fashion people are wearing wide-leg chinos with sneakers and funnel-neck leather jackets.
I love the waistband on these.
So elegant.
You may know Frame for its flattering jeans, but what you might not realize is that its trousers are equally impressive.
A workwear staple.
Style Notes: Use your wide-leg chinos as a base for layering and trying out various textured tops.
From these elevated chinos to a handful of lightweight knits, WAO has all of your essentials for the upcoming season.
Max Mara is a master at creating elevated chinos.
For under $75, these chinos are a great deal.
Watch how these beautifully elongate your legs.
Cropped pants may be headed for a revival.
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