When you veer away from the safe, steadfast world of denim, finding a great pair of trousers for men can be a tricky process. How should they fit? What fabric should I go for? And what about the colour?
Well, in our humble (yet, expert) opinion, we’d advise erring on the side of smart casual, whether it’s a tailored trouser or a work pant à la Dickies or Carhartt. These designs will offer you optimum styling and event-appropriate versatility, with the option to dress them up or down depending on the vibe.
When it comes to fit, relaxed is the best. Although we hear the murmerings of the return of the skinny fit nearly every year - in recent times, as a result of Celine and Saint Laurent showing their love for the silhouette - thus far, it seems we’ve managed to abate its resurgence in popularity. And, when it comes to tailored trousers, a relaxed fit will easily traverse the gap between smart and casual, unlike anything that’s close-fitting.
If you were under the impression that a loose cut only works for tall men, you’d be sorely mistaken. Just look to the likes of Jonathan Bailey or Manu Rios who are both under 6ft but still like to wear the more relaxed fit - and look all the better for it.
For the fabric, natural fibres tend to feel better on the skin, so a wool, cotton or viscose is prefereable, although a polyester-based yard often looks just as good and is generally available at a more affordable price point. Flowy fabric that drapes nicely is perfect for an oversized tailored trouser, especially when there’s a break at the ankle, whereas a stiff twill is perfect for work pants.
Our top tip would be to stick to the basics when it comes to colour - whether that’s black, white, navy or camel. Wearing a bright pair of trousers is a privilege only a select few can pull off. For the rest of us, it edges us ever closer to clown territory, so it’s best to steer clear and swerve this entirely.
So, without further ado, it’s time to up your smart-casual game with one of the pairs in our list below.
Keep scrolling for the best.
Uniqlo Two-Way Stretch Pleated Tapered Fit Trousers
Is there anything Uniqlo’s trousers can’t do? Crafted from a wrinkle-resistant fabric that’s also less susceptible to stains, they’ll keep you looking sharp all day long, and with two-way stretch, they’ll be the comfiest trousers you’ll own.
Buy now £39.90, Uniqlo
Dickies Original 874 Work Pant Navy
I quite literally don’t know how I’d live without my Dickies 874 Work Pants. They’re the most versatile trousers I own thanks to the structured fabric yet relaxed fit, whether you dress them down with trainers and a t-shirt or up with loafers and a shirt. A wardrobe staple that’s ready for any eventuality - now, I want them in every colour.
Buy now £65.00, Dickies
Our Legacy 70s virgin-wool trousers
Any menswear afficionado will be familiar with Our Legacy, the Swedish brand that boasts a dedicated fan base thanks to its unique take on seasonless Scandi style - from unstructured suiting to sheer shirts, expertly cut trousers to alpaca wool overcoats.
These trousers have a distinctly 70s feel. Constructed using a lustrous virgin wool with a slight flared leg, they’ll take you from AM to PM with ease. And the fit is just right.
Buy now £340.00, Matches
Arket X Mr. Porter Eurythmics Straight-Leg Pleated Cotton-Twill Trousers
A part of Scandi high street hero Arket’s exclusive capsule for online marketplace Mr. Porter, it’s no wonder these trousers are a wardrobe staple we all want in our wardrobes. From the versatile off-white shade to the subtle pleats, they tick all of the arduous smart-casual boxes with ease.
Buy now £80.00, Mr. Porter
Cos Wide-Leg Wool Trousers
Cos should be at the top of every well-dressed man’s list. Offering elevated basics that are convicing dupes for Joseph or The Row at a fraction of the price, it’s perfect for those who have a timeless sense of style.
From the first-rate fabric to the contemporary silhouettes, this quality pair of black trousers is an absolute wardrobe essential - and the wide-leg style ticks all of the boxes. The relaxed cut and tailored waistband makes them a sleek design that will take you from the office to the pub in subtle sophistication.
Buy now £99.00, Cos
Nanushka Macen Slip satin pants
While you may not think wearing satin trousers is your style, just wait until you try a pair of Nanushka’s super-soft pants in this divine coffee bean hue. The ultimate holiday purchase, these are the ideal trousers for an evening dinner in any elegant vacation destination. Worn simply with a crisp white t-shirt or even the matching shirt, you’ll be the stylish man-about-seaside-town you’ve always dreamed of.
Buy now £475.00, Nanushka
Topman straight stacker trousers in stone
Crafted using a polyester twill, Topman’s stacker trousers look much more expensive than their £46 price point. With a perfectly straight fit, a break at the ankle and semi-exposed pockets, they boast a utility feel without looking overly casual. They’re going straight in my basket.
Buy now £46.00, ASOS
Weekday Uno Loose Suit Trousers
Constructed using responsible fabrics, Weekday’s loose tailored trousers are an easy go-to for work or for play. Paired with a simple vest for a Friday night or with a relaxed Oxford shirt for the office, you’ll be ready for anything the day has in store for you. Available in six colours, we’re sure you’ll find a pair that works for you.
Buy now £57.00, Weekday
Samsøe Samsøe Noah Trousers 11736
Every year, Samsøe Samsøe produces elevated basics that you could wear season after season - so it’s a brand that should be on the list of any sartorially-concious gent. For those who like their trousers relaxed but not oversized, the Scandi brand’s Noah silhouette will fit just right - and we love the grey melange.
Buy now £120.00, Samsøe Samsøe
Acne Studios Wool Tailored Trousers
Just one purchase from Acne Studios and you’ll be hooked. From the tailoring to the denim, the collections are full of easy-to-wear yet understatedly stylish pieces that will live happily in your wardrobe for years to come - and these trousers are a case in point. Made using 100 per cent wool, they fall beautifully, and the pinstripe detailing adds a touch of 80s appeal.
Buy now £390.00, Acne Studios
