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Fashion
Can’t stand jeans? 5 trending (and comfortable) trouser styles to try instead
By Holly Bullock &Soraya Gaied Chortane
2 years ago
All products on this page have been selected by the editorial team, however Stylist may make commission on some products purchased through affiliate links in this article
4 min read
Sure, there are exceptions, but as a general rule, jeans aren’t winning any Most Comfortable Trouser awards any time soon. Here’s our guide to the best trousers that aren’t jeans to shop this season…
There are a few topics that can be relied upon to ease an awkward conversational lull and get the chat up and running: the weather, of course; anything transport-related – how you got here, how you’ll be getting home and which Tube line is your favourite (it’s the Victoria line, btw); and why jeans are great in theory but very often less than great in reality.
Of course, there are exceptions. Levi’s baggy dad style, for example, are as comfortable as pyjamas, and Arket’s low loose jeans, which sit low on the waist to avoid cutting in, are equally wearable. On the whole, though, it’s a widely accepted fact that jeans can be challenging: there’s the waistband (ideal for standing up and not ideal for sitting down), the seams, the stiff fabric…
See? There’s so much to discuss when it comes to our love-hate relationship with denim. But luckily, there’s just as much to say about the alternatives – and, in news that will be music to the ears of jeans avoiders everywhere, stretchy jersey, drawstring styles and khaki trousers are all trending.
From low-slung cargo pants at Balenciaga to loose tailoring at Dries Van Noten and Chloé, the spring/summer 2023 catwalks provided ample inspiration for stylish jeans alternatives. Elasticated waists are also finally being embraced by fashion brands, meaning there’s never been a better time to branch out. Keep reading for our guide to the best non-denim trouser styles to wear this season…
Lean into tailoring
White Stuff Jenny wide-leg trouser
Whether you wear them with a graphic T-shirt or a crisp white shirt, these sleek trousers from White Stuff are the perfect swap for denim.
Jigsaw modern crepe sailor trouser
Inject some colour into your wardrobe with these Jigsaw tailored trousers. Available in purple, red, green, black and navy – every shade is a welcome alternative to the blue/black rut that we often get stuck in with jeans. We’d pair these with a stiletto heel and matching mini handbag.
M&S crepe tab detail wide-leg trousers
If white jeans feel daunting, try these off-white wide-leg trousers from M&S with a pair of trending trainers (think black Adidas Sambas or colourful Gazelles).
Try tweed
& Other Stories slim-fit tweed trousers
The perfect replacement for blue jeans, these comfortable tweed pants are a sunshiny light yellow – the serotonin boost we all need.
Ralph Lauren pleated houndstooth tweed trouser
Made from the most extraordinary Italian houndstooth, these Ralph Lauren tweed trousers give a vintage-inspired feel. Pair with a crisp white shirt and, if the mood takes you, the matching blazer.
White Stuff Belle tweedy wide-leg trouser
In a wide-leg tweed style, these trousers from White Stuff really are autumn-appropriate. When a pair of trousers can accommodate our WFH day, we know they’re a keeper.
Wear leggings
Calvin Klein Milano jersey flared leggings
You’d be hard-pushed to find a pair of trousers more comfortable than these – the black shade and stretchy logo detailing makes them feel sporty yet chic. An elasticated waist and soft fabric feels infinitely more appealing than denim.
Jigsaw stretch leather legging
If a legging conjures up images of sweaty gym sessions, why not opt for a leather version. These buttery soft pull-on trousers have the same flexible, wide waistband – just with more grace.
Frame Jetset stretch-denim flared pants
If you thought jeggings were a thing of the past, these stretchy denim trousers prove otherwise and are well worth the throwback. We’ll be wearing them with everything from shimmery going-out tops to oversized office blazers.
Choose khaki
Everlane organic wide-leg pant
Ideal for days when you want to look polished but simply cannot bear the thought of dressing up. These organic cotton khaki trousers will see you through.
Arket barrel-leg cotton chinos
A utilitarian take on classic khaki trouser, this pair will work as well in the office as they will at your local park. Wear with a white ribbed tank top and black bomber for an ultra-cool look.
Gap high-rise girlfriend utility trousers
With a button closure zip and stretch twill weave, these khaki trousers marry comfort with office-friendly nods to tailoring.
Look for a drawstring
Benetton yarn trousers with drawstring
If you prefer a sportier look, try these drawstring trousers from Benetton. Cool and, most importantly, casual, they are made from the softest viscose blend and are available in four terrific colours.
Raey drawstring-waist mega trousers
A more dramatic take on pyjama-style trousers, this exaggerated pair will amp up your wardrobe. We suggest wearing casual basics – a white T-shirt or tank – for a pared-back look.
Shop Raey organic-cotton drawstring-waist mega trousers at Matches, £295
Aligne Koi wide-leg trousers
With just enough pyjama references to feel comfortable but put together, these pinstriped trousers include the holy grail of casual bottoms: pockets.
Images: Getty; courtesy of brands
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