I Just Tested H&M's Cult Wide-Leg Trousers for 2024—Here's My Verdict
When a high-street item starts garnering a certain amount of hype, it seriously piques our interest here atBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing . That’s what happened recently, anyway, when word got around about how great H&M’s wide-leg trousers were. Last year, we sold over 1000 pairs through our site, and after delving deeper, we realised that most styles were consistently receiving incredible reviews online. So of course, we had to see how good they were for ourselves.
I was tasked with trying on as many pairs as I could get my hands on (harder than it sounds when they fly out of stock as quickly as they do) to see whether they lived up to expectations and to figure out which styles, in particular, were worth spending money on. Turns out those reviewers weren’t wrong, and there were quite a few brilliant ones that looked and felt expensive despite their affordable price tags.
I have to admit I used to think wide-leg trousers were a difficult trend to wear, especially since I’m only 5’2”, but H&M’s styles completely changed my opinion. Although they give that smart, tailored look, they were all surprisingly comfortable. They've become my go-to for office days, but I've also taken to wearing them while working from home and at weekends so I can still feel a bit polished. Undeniably, wide-legs are a new staple in my wardrobe (sorry, jeans), especially since they're surprisingly versatile when it comes to shoe pairings too—they work with trainers, ballet flats, boots, loafers and even chunky sandals during the summer.
Below, you’ll find my verdict on the five best new-in pairs I tried recently, as well as links to more of H&M's fan-favourite styles that all work really well for the seasons ahead.
1. Tailored Trousers
Verdict: I love the expensive-looking beige of these trousers—they'll work perfectly in an autumn capsule wardrobe. I will say, they were quite low-rise, and fit a little on the smaller side, so consider sizing up if you're in between sizes or prefer a looser look—for reference I'm a size 10 and wearing a 10 here. At 5'2" I appreciate that I probably wouldn't even have to take the hems up, but if you're much taller they could well sit closer to the ankle (take a look at H&M's model for reference). For under £30, these trousers are hard to argue with—and they have a matching blazer too.
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2. Wide Trousers
Verdict: As classic black wide leg trousers go, these are basically all you could ask for. True to size, not too baggy, not too tapered or straight. Yes, they're a budget-friendly pair, so the fabric doesn't feel super luxurious or anything, but it will certainly do the trick. A great work trouser if ever I saw one.
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3. Wide Twill Trousers
Verdict: Despite still being very affordable, this pair tricked me into thinking they were much more premium. The fabric is a little sturdier than the first couple of pairs I tried, with a lovely woven texture that feels as luxe as it looks—ideal for heading into cooler months. The cut and fit isn't going to stand up against a The Row pair, let's be honest, but I found them to be true to size, with a classic high waist and not too long a leg.
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The loose and billowy material is comfortable but looks sophisticated at the same time.
These are slightly more expensive than other pairs but well worth it in my opinion.
4. Tailored Trousers
Verdict: Coming from H&M's premium selection, and with a much higher price tag than the other pairs I ordered, I had big expectations for these trousers. Luckily, I could really notice the difference—the fabric, stitching and cut all felt much more premium—making them worth the extra investment in my opinion. I loved the chic greige colour and the fact that, although long enough for me to have to get taken up, they weren't overwhelmingly oversized in other areas so as to swamp me—they still cut a straight, wide-leg shape that feels so polished dressed up or down.
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From the shade to the premium feel, you'd never guess these were from the high street.
I'm also fan of the dark grey colour which are slightly cheaper due to a different fabric composition.
5. High-Waisted Tailored Trousers
Verdict: I'm cheating a little bit with these trousers as I actually own them in grey from last year. I wore them on repeat, and so I thought a black pair would make a great investment, especially for autumn. They may be high-waisted, but there's an elasticated panel under the waistband that keeps them feeling comfortable, while nipping you in at the same time. It's a win, win really.
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Shop More H&M Wide-Leg Trousers:
Emily Dawes is the very definition of a fashion multi hyphenate. An editor, stylist and writer with over eleven years’ worth of experience in the industry, Emily is known for her impeccable taste, elegant outfit choices and being able to spot the next big thing in fashion from a mile off. Our readers loyally trust her advice and shopping suggestions; so much so she began her own column documenting the most expensive-looking pieces on the high street, which has become a top-performing piece of content for theBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing brand.
Emily has worked forBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK since 2020 in a myriad as roles, spanning from contributing editor and branded content editor. Now, she holds the position of affiliate editor and is responsible for the brand’s overall affiliate strategy, ideation and content execution. Working closely withBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing UK’s affiliate manager, Emily has been instrumental in securing and nourishing brand partnerships, surpassing her goals as standard. Leading the team in tentpole shopping moments including Black Friday and Peak Trading, with Emily’s guidance and leadership, teamBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing is in a stronger affiliate position than ever before.
Prior to joining theBest Knockoff Luxury Clothing team, Emily served as YOU Magazine’s acting fashion editor where she managed the fashion team and oversaw all fashion content output for the fast-paced weekly title. Emily is a stylist in her own right, having worked with a slew of VIP clients including writer and television personality, Elizabeth Day, as well as styling and art directing several celebrity cover shoots for glossy print publication, Grazia. Her adept fashion knowledge means brands regularly sought out to work with her as a consultant: previously she has developed marketing and content plans for brands for Cocoon and Edge of Ember. Before entering the industry, Emily obtained a Bachelor of Arts in English and American Studies with International Study from Nottingham University. Fun fact: Emily spent a year studying in America which saw her join a sorority during her time there.
When she’s not working or tracking down the chicest, new-in items to share with our audience, you’ll find Emily bestowing her East London home with her stylish flair, reading everything from the classics to cowboy romance novels and escaping to the country with husband, baby boy and dog, Roo, whenever she can.
Emily is currently on maternity leave.