If you're looking for a no-brainer way to level-up your summer outfits but aren't into dresses or skirts, rest assured, trousers can lend themselves just as well to the hotter summer months as their floaty counterparts, if not even more so. Just as versatile as other bottom-half alternatives, well-chosen pairs of summer trousers present an endless array of outfit options that can easily be transitioned from day to night, from brunch dates to rooftop drinks, and from hot, sunny mornings to rainy, humid afternoons.
Whether you're looking to embrace the relaxed sophistication of linen trousers or want fresh ways to wear your favourite denim, I consulted my preferred reference point—Instagram, of course—to find the sleekest summer trouser outfits I could. My goal was to inspire your looks for the season while giving myself some easy 'fits to copy in the process. No one said being a fashion editor was completely selfless, after all.
So, if you prefer trousers to dresses or are just looking for new ways to develop your style over the next few months, scroll on to see eight easy summer trouser outfits that are prepped and ready for the heat.
See the Chic Summer Trouser Outfits I'm Copying This Season:
1. Scarf Top + Linen Trousers
Style Notes: Nothing says summer quite like a scarf top. I'm enjoying the pairing of lightweight silk and linen in this summer trouser outfit.
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I love the vintage look of this silk scarf top.
I consider these to be a summer staple.
Toteme flip flops? I'm in.
2. Vest Top + Tailored Trousers
Style Notes: Tailored trousers will always look great during the day, but I particularly like styling them for nighttime. Take your cues from Marianne (pictured) by pairing yours with a simple vest top and a slick leather belt for any evening alfresco dining moments that come your way.
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Arket always delivers on premium basics.
The easiest way to elevate your looks is with a luxe belt.
I hear such great things about these trousers.
3. Button-up Shirt + Jeans
Style Notes: A button-up shirt is a summer wardrobe staple. Style yours with a pair of classic jeans, sunnies and a raffia tote for the ultimate warm-weather ensemble.
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This oversized shirt will look super stylish tucked into some jeans as well as on it's own as a dress.
When it comes to denim, don't sleep on Other Stories.
This is at the top of my holiday wishlist.
I'm obsessed with the shape of these.
4. Satin Camisole + Wide-Leg Trousers
Style Notes: When temperatures hit their peak, you'll want to keep your fabrics cool. Consider tucking a silk or satin camisole into your trousers for a sleek look that requires minimal effort.
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A top you can use to dress up your low-key pieces.
I wear my Missoma hoops every single day.
Perfect for work or play.
5. Tank Top + Jeans
Style Notes: Jeans absolutely fall under the category of trousers (at least they do in my book), and personally, I can't wait to re-create Lindsey Holland's low-key look (pictured). The subtle distress to the knee and wide-leg silhouette will be more comfortable to wear in summer temperatures than straight-leg styles.
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Knitted tops will save you on cooler summer days and evenings.
A bag that will never date.
Both Lindsey Holland and fellow influencer Monikh Dale own these exact jeans.
6. Waistcoat + Striped Trousers
Style Notes: I've been looking for a pair of striped linen trousers ever since I saw Sasha Mei's look (pictured), which also ticks off another major trend this year—the waistcoat.
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I'm into this fitted cut.
These are so breezy!
Give your neutral looks an unexpected twist with a colourful shoe.
7. Loose T-Shirt + Track Pants
Style Notes: When the weather is too hot, and you want to look stylish with minimal effort, a casual tee and tracksuit pants combo will see you through. You can then elevate the look with accessories such as a chic designer tote and a stylish sandal.
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You can buy this shirt in so many colours and patterns.
The kind of track pant you can wear to work.
You can fit so much in this tote.
8. Baby Tee + Loose Trousers
Style Notes: Between the cropped baby tee, the billowing linen trousers slung low on the hip and a silver choker necklace, this summer trouser outfit is practically a love letter to all that was good about '90s fashion.
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I've just ordered this in navy, black and white.
Silver jewellery will never date.
Arket is my go-to for expensive-looking linen pieces.
9. Linen Co-Ords
Style Notes: The easiest way to wear trousers this summer? As part of a set. Double up with a linen co-ord set for an easy, breezy summer look that still looks effortlessly polished.
This top would also look great with white shorts.
The full ensemble.
Add just a little lift with these mules.
Super sleek.
This piece was originally published at an earlier date and has since been updated.
