The Trousers That Are Replacing Our Jeans This Year

It doesn’t take a ton for us to hop on the bandwagon of a fresh and fun new trend, and when joining in on it simultaneously means we get to opt out of jeans, we’re all ears. And this year, trousers are here to save the day.

If you’ve fallen victim to the TikTok or Instagram doom scroll in any capacity this past year or two, you already know that workwear continues to be on the rise. Lucky for us, that means relaxed, effortless trousers are here to stay. And don’t worry: with a looser fit and full lengths, they feel like anything but those stiff, business casual pants you bought for your first-ever interview (and still have nightmares about).

With how easy they are to style paired with how our favorite celebs have crowned them a street-style essential, we’re all in on trousers—and you should be, too. Here’s how we’re rocking ours, plus, which ones are worth adding to your cart:

How to style them

With a blazer

Graphics by: Aryana Johnson

There’s nothing that screams, “fall,” quite like throwing a plaid blazer over a nice pair of trousers. Bonus points if they’re the Straight Leg Trouser Pant from Lane Bryant, which is the classic-meets-trendy pant of our dreams. Give it a modern twist with a fitted tank and long gold earrings that perfectly match the detailing on your leather purse, and finish with heeled boots that add an air of effortlessness. This work-ready outfit doubles as a put-together look for your weekends off.

With a striped button-up

Graphics by: Aryana Johnson

striped button-down (extended) | trousers (extended) | necklace (extended) | purse (extended) | loafers (extended)

Rather than reaching for your go-to denim, switch up styling a classic striped button-up with relaxed trousers instead. Statement loafers give this traditional outfit formula a slight refresh—try dressed-up metallic silver or casual slip-on black chained loafers. Match your accessories by playing off the colors of your outfit to tie the whole look together.

With a soft cardigan

Graphics by: Aryana Johnson

cardigan (extended) | trousers (extended) | earrings (extended) | purse | loafers (extended)

Styling contrasting textures and fabrics creates a luxe touch to any outfit. Upgrade a classic cardigan by pairing it with plaid trousers, black leather loafers, gold hoops, and a matching leather satchel. This look is begging to be worn to an afternoon spent at the coffee shop or perusing the aisles of a cozy bookstore.

With a wool coat

Graphics by: Aryana Johnson

For an easy minimalist look, pair your trousers with other neutrals—like a black or cream sweater—and finish it off with a wool coat. The contrast of the coat will add visual interest while keeping the look seamless. Pair with Mary Janes—which are some of our favorite fall shoes at the moment.

With a jacket and sneakers

Graphics by: Aryana Johnson

For an easy everyday outfit, pair your favorite jacket and trousers with sneakers and a sweater underneath. That way, if the weather is a little warmer (or gets warmer throughout the day), you can take the jacket off and throw it over your shoulders to adjust to the temperature. The matching sunnies and bag combo elevates the look while still giving it that cool-girl vibe.