I'm Passing on Jeans This Summer—20 Chic Trousers I'm Wearing Instead

After months of jeans, layers and even boots (it was a long, cold winter, wasn't it?), summer is finally here! But with the new season and warm weather comes endless outfit dilemmas, especially if, like me, you're not a big fan of dresses.

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(Image credit: @emilyjdawes)

Our very own Emily Dawes wearing Reformation's linen trousers with a bandeau top.

I want to feel comfortable, for sure, but in summer I often miss that put-together feeling that autumn/winter dressing lends itself to so easily. Now this where trousers comes in. Easy to dress up or down, comfy and still polished-looking, trousers have become a very firm fixture in my summer wardrobe. And I know I'm not alone.

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(Image credit: @chiarasatelier)

This is a simple but impactful look. Swap in heels if you want to dress it up for a night out.

This year, I am finding myself drawn towards relaxed trousers in either lightweight linens or with uplifting summer shades like greens, stripes and pinks. I've found lots of tempting pairs from high-street brands including Arket and COS but also designer labels like Toteme and Faithfull the Brand. The one thing all of these trousers I've found have in common is how easy they are to style: Simply add a tank top, silk camisole or white Oxford shirt and you'll have a considered, chic throw-on look in no time.

Keep scrolling for styling inspiration and my edit of the best summer trousers out there.

How to Wear Trousers in Summer:

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(Image credit: Brittany Bathgate)

Pair navy high-waisted trousers with flip-flops (these are from The Row) and a white Oxford shirt.

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(Image credit: Monikh)

These H&M Studio collection trousers might now be sold out, but re-create this look with a pair of neutral linen trousers and a white shirt.

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(Image credit: @aniyahmorinia)

You can't go wrong with a matching set.

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(Image credit: @anoukyve)

For a more relaxed feel, opt for a looser fit and wide-leg silhouette.

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(Image credit: @deborabrosa)

If you want something a little bolder, opt for a bright colour or print.

Shop the Best Linen Trousers for Summer:

Shop the Best Wide-Leg Trousers for Summer:

Shop the Best Silk Trousers for Summer:

Shop the Best Striped Trousers for Summer:

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Emma Spedding
Freelance Fashion Editor

Emma is a freelance fashion editor with over 15 years experience in industry, having worked at The Telegraph, Grazia and, most recently, British Vogue. Emma was part of the founding team of Who What Wear UK, where she worked for six years as Deputy Editor and then Editor—helping shape the team into what it is today is one of the biggest privileges of her career and she will always see herself as a Who What Wear girl, contributing to both the US and UK sites. Whether she's writing about runway trends or spotlighting emerging brands, she aims to write about fashion in a way that is democratic and doesn't promote over consumption.