The Best Wide-Leg Trousers—Plus 7 Street Style-Approved Outfits

Forgive us for the pun, but wide-leg trousers have, well, wide appeal. (Sorry, we had to.) Jokes aside, they’re one of those rare wardrobe staples that truly work for almost everyone, in almost every setting. Roomy and forgiving yet still polished and sleek, wide-leg trousers strike the balance between comfort and sophistication, seamlessly transitioning from office hours to off-duty plans without missing a beat (and just a switch of shoes).

Last fashion month, the silhouette was everywhere on the street style scene, worn in all its variations: crisp gray suiting styles, relaxed khaki pairs, and classic cropped black trousers. The beauty of the wide-leg trouser lies in its versatility, and its accessibility, too. From sharply tailored iterations by Saint Laurent to clean, minimalist options at Cos, the shape spans the price spectrum. We pulled inspiration from the streets to show you exactly how to wear them now.

Photographed by Phil Oh

The Heather Grey

As evidenced by this stylish showgoer, gray trousers and a pop of red are a match made in heaven.

Photographed by Phil Oh

The Cuffed Pair

Classic pieces, like trousers and white shirting, take on a more fluid feel with long, loose cuts. Stay in the neutrals family by topping this grey wool pair off with a simple white button-down and lightweight black jacket. Cuffing the bottoms (whether intentionally purchased this way, or done so at your tailor) helps prevent them from dragging.

Photographed by Phil Oh

The Relaxed Khaki

Khaki trousers are preppy, but not stuffy, in a wide, pleated silhouette. Pair them with a blue button-up and anorak for a bit of old-money charm.

Photographed by Phil Oh

The Warm Ivory

Here, ivory trousers in a roomy cut make the perfect backdrop for a statement sweater and sunnies.

Photographed by Phil Oh

The Pleated Beige

Make a statement in a completely monochromatic look, like this chic showgoer demonstrates in various shades of camel and olive.

The Plaid on Plaid

Go maximalist in a print-on-print pant set, and keep the rest of the look low-key with sneakers and classic eyewear.

Photographed by Phil Oh

The Classic Black

Cropped, wide-leg trousers in simple black are the perfect cut to sport with a long, leather jacket and show off a pair of pumps—slingback, mules, or even an embellished style.

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