The best places to buy trousers, according to a fashion expert
Most people are comfy and confident in dresses. But when it comes to bottom-half separates, most of us fall into one of two camps; you’re either a ‘skirt’ person or a ‘trouser’ person.
I am most definitely, 100%, a trouser person. In fact, I only own one skirt! Don’t get me wrong, I love them on other people, and I love styling skirts on photo shoots, but on me they either make me feel frumpy, don’t particularly flatter my figure, or I don’t have a top in my wardrobe that will go perfectly with it. If I’m honest, I often don’t find high street skirts particularly inspiring, which is why I love and live in trousers.
Unfortunately, poor old trousers get a bit of bad wrap for being a bit, well… boring! Skirts get all the glamour and accolade; the show-stopping A-line, the sequin pencil, the wafting maxi, the sexy mini. When people think of trousers, they think of their redundant office grey suit trousers gathering dust at the back of the wardrobe or their ‘meh’ black trousers which they reluctantly slip on when they have nothing else to wear.
A great pair of trousers isn’t always easy to come by. Given the wealth of options out there, it can be difficult to know where to start. Speaking from experience, it takes time to discern the fabrics and silhouettes that suit you – and those that don’t. The best way to find out? Try on as many as you can manage (endure) and don’t settle for a pair that you don’t love.
Luckily, lots of brands have upped their trouser game in the last few seasons. So, if you’re in need of updating your trouser collection, these are my favourite places to shop for trousers…
Uniqlo
I’m a firm member of the Uniqlo fan club. Sleek and chic minimalist styles that will always stand the test of time. To say the brand has a huge range of trousers is an understatement; smart, casual, cargo, joggers, leggings, straight-leg, tapered, wide-leg, pleated, linen… the list goes on. Its recent iteration of their wide-leg classic now comes in a trio of chino shades. Perfect for that summer holiday you have planned.
Toast
One of the brands I always turn to for my trousers is Toast. I’m pear-shaped and proud — and Toast always has great roomy everyday trousers, they don’t do tight trousers (hooray!). They’re wonderfully comfy and I instantly feel that little bit cooler when wearing them.
COS
Swedish brand COS creates wardrobe essentials with a sharp focus on construction, and so it’s no surprise that this is my ultimate go-to for tailored trousers with a twist. If your black or navy trousers need updating, this is the place to come.
Arket
Arket pieces are a common sighting on the GH fashion desk. The high-street brand stocks a versatile collection of trousers all year round, in a range of silhouettes, fabrics and colourways. From cargo pants to tailored trousers; linen blends and flares, there are plenty of simple but sophisticated options suitable for a number of occasions.
Sézane
For smart trousers with French chic, you need to head to Sézane. Expect flowing silhouettes, high-waisted designs dreamy colours that make for a feminine and elegant ensemble.
ME+EM
ME+EM is my trusted trouser go-to for drama. Block colour, super-wide leg, on-trend silhouettes and quality fabrics — these are not your bog-standard slacks.
Sister Jane
If you’re in the need for some party pants, Sister Jane is the go-to for the ‘wowzer’ trouser. You will be constantly asked “Ooh, where are those from?” — don’t say I didn’t warn you!
Jigsaw
If you’re after a pair of fancy pants, you’ll find plenty of standout styles at Jigsaw. From feminine florals to glossy leather, you’ll find a pair that will steal the show.
Baukjen
If, like me, your style is slightly verging on utilitarian, Baukjen is the place to shop — as it always produces triumphs in the casual trouser department. I particularly love the brand's comfy side-stripe joggers (great for travelling in), leather trousers and blush pink chinos — which offer utility with a feminine twist.
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