When I think of black wide-leg trousers, I automatically conjure up visions of the pair I bought––that were 5 inches too long for my 5′ 4″ frame––when I started my first office job. Fortunately it wasn’t long before I then started working in the fashion industry, where, at the time, black trousers weren’t really the uniform or vibe. However, thinking back to my OG pair, I now realise they’re the reason I’ve avoided black trousers ever since––unless they’re of the jean or stretchy variety. At least that was the case, until I tried on an & Other Stories pair that all of my editor friends rave about, and they totally changed my mind.
More tapered in the leg, meaning they didn’t flood the floor like a lot of other wide-leg styles I’ve tried, they fit so much better than other options I’ve been tempted by throughout the years. And after having bought this high-street gem, I wanted to find some non-corporate ways to wear my new purchase. This search, naturally, led me to Instagram.
Here, I found that black trousers and a pretty top is the new, very chic jeans-and-a-nice-top formula. If you’re in any doubt, you really can’t go wrong with a black co-ord; that said, a slogan T-shirt, fun coat or striped polo shirt can be added to create a whole new, directional vibe to the trousers which, previously, rarely saw the outside of the office.
Acting as the base for so many brilliant outfits to be built upon, here are six looks that changed my mind about black wide-leg trousers.
6 Black Wide-Leg Trouser Outfits I’ll Wear Nonstop This Autumn
1. Black Wide-Leg Trousers + Black Waistcoat + Sandals
Style Notes: Let me tell you, the waistcoat is still going to be a prevalent piece in your wardrobe going into autumn. While the weather is still holding out, make like Marianne and team your favourite black trousers with a matching waistcoat––if it isn’t broke and all that.
Shop the look:
Autograph
Wool Blend Tailored Waistcoat With Silk
The wool blend will make sure the outfit works beyond summer.
M&S Collection
Pleat Front Relaxed Wide Leg Trousers
These come in petite, regular and long lengths so you’re bound to find the right fit.
TOTEME
T-Lock Leather Shoulder Bag
COS
Leather Toe-Thong Sandals
I love a tailored trousers and sandals look.
2. Black Wide-Leg Trousers + T-shirt + Ballet Pumps
Style Notes: If you’re petite or just prefer to show of your shoes, a wide-leg pair that tapers in at the ankle is the style to opt for. See how Lydia just adds a simple T-shirt and ballet flats? Let me introduce you to your new everyday uniform for those “I have nothing to wear” days.
Shop the look:
Massimo Dutti
Cotton T-shirt
Brown is the new black for autumn.
& Other Stories
Tailored Tapered Trousers
A wide-leg that’s more tapered at the ankle is perfect for petites.
Jigsaw
Linnie Flat Pointed Ballerina in Black
Because all ballet flats are sticking around for autumn/winter.
THE YSSO
Cote Gold-Plated Earrings
I have these and find any excuse to wear them.
3. Black Wide-Leg Trousers + Logo T-shirt + Fun Coat
Style Notes: If you’re more of a maximalist, then just use your wide-leg black trousers as a base to a more exciting look. I love how Karina adds a fun logo T-shirt, bold coat and clashing bag. Because autumn needn’t be all about neutrals.
Shop the look:
Jakke
Vera Faux Shearling Aviator Jacket
A vibrant coat will always liven up simple black trousers.
Arket
Wool Blend Twill Trousers
Fashion editors have loved this pair for years.
Ganni
Future White Jersey Relaxed T-Shirt
Logo tees are everywhere.
Anthropologie
Melie Bianco Larissa Woven Faux-Leather Shoulder Bag
Pink and yellow is my new favourite pairing.
4. Black Wide-Leg Trousers + Minimal Top + Heels
Style Notes: Forget a “nice top” and jeans for a moment, the indisputable outfit formula works when it comes to black trousers, too. Caroline creates a chic dinner look by adding heels to a super slouchy pair. And I for one will be copying this look from my own wardrobe.
Shop the look:
Reformation
Elio Knit Top
Any “nice top” will work with black trousers.
ZIMMERMANN
Belted Pleated Silk-Satin Wide-Leg Pants
This extra baggy pair will achieve Caroline’s look.
Missoma
Classic Flat Medium Hoop Earrings
Missoma never fails in my eyes.
SAINT LAURENT
Lee Patent-Leather Slingback Pumps
5. Black Wide-Leg Trousers + Striped Top + Bomber Jacket
Style Notes: Abi is managing to tick off multiple autumn mini trends in one fell swoop. Polo top? Tick. Brown transitional jacket? Tick. Coloured trainers. Tick. And yes of course, black trousers, but this time with a running errands feel thanks to the effortlessly comfy stretch waist.
Shop the look:
Reformation
Marco Bomber Jacket
I’m ready for transitional jackets.
ASOS Curve
Tailored Pull on Trouser in Black
Wide-leg trousers needn’t be tailored, stretch-waist pairs will always get my vote.
Polo shirts are going to be everywhere.
Adidas Originals
Handball Spezial Gum Sole Trainers in Light Blue
Yep, colourful trainers are still going strong.
6. Black Wide-Leg Trousers + Black Blazer + White T-shirt
Style Notes: To avoid the corporate office look I’ve talked about, an easy way to do this is to swap your suit trousers for black wide-leg jeans. See how it makes the look feel less smart and more cool-girl? The swap of the usual buckled leather belt for a rope iteration also goes with the more chill, yet polished, aesthetic.
Shop the look:
COS
Deconstructed Nylon Blazer
All about that slouchy fit.
Adding black jeans to a black gives the classic suit a whole new feel.
BOTTEGA VENETA
Can Opener Intrecciato Leather Waist Belt
Love the addition of a rope belt instead of a buckle version.
PROENZA SCHOULER
Leather Loafers
All about that contrast stitch.