The last time I did a wardrobe cleanse, I was reminded just how central trousers are to my everyday style. They’re what I wear most often, whether that’s easy stretch-waist styles for working from home, tailored pairs for office days, or more silky trousers for nights out.
With a house move on the cards for 2026 and another clear-out approaching, I’ve decided to be more considered about what stays. That means letting go of the trousers I’ve held onto that no longer reflect my style, or—more importantly—fit me properly. There’s little value in keeping pieces that don’t get worn. And with some space set to open up, it felt like the right moment to look ahead at which trouser trends are likely to shape spring/summer 2026 and which even might get me to throw my much-loved jeans to the back of my wardrobe for good.
On my quest, I studied the runway trends to find the five key trends that would actually deserve a place in my trouser collection. My findings? Balloon trousers are sticking around (Louis Vuitton, Michael Kors and Ferragamo have confirmed it), suede pairs were the buttery soft style seen at Gabriela Hearst that can be worn across all seasons and when it comes to comfy pairs—my favourite of all—track pants have gone retro, with clashing colours and vintage sporty shapes taking over at Lacoste. And are you ready for the controversial return of super skinny pairs? If you want to get one step ahead, these are the key 2026 trouser trends that you can actually shop already.
2026 Trouser Trends to Take Note of:
1. Earthy Suede
Style Notes: It's confirmed, suede is sticking around for yet another year. We've had bags, jackets and boots, and for SS26, Gabriela Hearst has backed buttery soft trousers in rich earthy shades of tan, chestnut and chocolate brown. One to wear across all seasons (with the help of good suede protector spray), these trousers are worth the spend.
Shop the Trend:
I'm seeing these with a cosy cashmere jumper for now and a satin cami top come spring.
This barrel-leg pair will see you through all seasons.
The length, the colour—these are pure perfection.
I swear by Citizen of Humanity jeans so these are bound to be just as good.
These are such a brilliant faux leather alternative.
2. Sheer Volume
Style Notes: Voluminous balloon pants have been key for a couple of seasons now, so if you've got a pair, hold onto them. Didn't try the trend the first time round? Michael Kors, Louis Vuitton and Ferragamo have created sheer iterations of the capacious styles, giving the floaty trousers a whole new cool—in both meanings of the word—look for the warm weather months. Plus, these will be the chicest pair for any upcoming night out.
Shop the Trend:
Get these now and you'll wear them on repeat next year.
Mesh is still going to be everywhere for 2026.
This colour is sticking around for 2026.
A spring-ready pair.
These look like they could be straight off the catwalk.
3. Vintage Sport
Style Notes: Looking like they could have been plucked from a thrift store, could-be-vintage tracksuit bottoms have been highlighted by Lacoste in bold, block colour form. Colour is the most important part for this one, so if you opt for a pair with stripes then make sure the hues feel retro.
Shop the Trend:
Yes to velour track pants.
These are so good, Free People made them in 9 colours!
Such a chic colour combo.
This colour combo will always look retro.
This emerald pair looks so luxe.
4. Liquid Satin
Style Notes: Fashion insiders have been wearing satin trousers for a while now, but for 2026, the look is more high shine. Liquid satin pairs were seen on the runway at Ferragamo and it's all about that luxe-looking sheen that makes the style feel fresh for the new season ahead.
Shop the Trend:
I've got a feeling grey is going to be a SS26 favourite.
This chocolatey pair is already in my basket.
These will work just as well with cosy knits as they will with a tank top come summer.
The 2026 update on butter yellow.
I love, love, love this cropped pair.
5. Super Skinny
Style Notes: The return of skinny jeans is always a conversation starter, so what if I were to tell you super skinny trousers are back, too? Jil Sander made tailoring streamlined, as did Max Mara, so make sure to give your slouchy trousers a day off in favour of slim styles that look effortless with cinched waist blazers or baggier funnel neck jackets.
Shop the Trend:
Add a voluminous jacket to make them feel current.
Yep, even the skinniest jeans are back!
You'll want the matching waistcoat for these, too.
In 2010 I would have worn these with knee-high boots so I may try it out once again.
I'll be wearing these with a canvas jacket and suede trainers for spring.