How My Classic Style Is Staying Put, Even Though I’m Staying Home

I’m constantly scouring the internet for the best fashion moments to report on. From the chunky platform loafers I love (but can’t quite decide if I want) to the bevvy of knits taking over wardrobes across the nation, it’s fair to say there are far too many fall trends tempting me this season. Right now, what I actually should be shopping for is a new pair of really good black pants, but sometimes I need a little inspiration from my stylish co-workers before I start furiously clicking that "Add to cart" button.

We all have those friends with meticulously curated wardrobes, and every time they put an outfit together we think, "Why didn’t I think of that?” Well, I basically just described my fellow editors Jasmine Fox-Suliaman and Lauren Eggertsen. When I turned to them to get the full 411 on what pants are particularly good right now, they both mentioned they’re shopping trousers from PAIGE’s The Nines Collection. Here at Who What Wear, we’ve collectively been huge PAIGE fans for years, and this season, we’re loving how the brand is bringing it back to its basics and reinventing the pant styles that have stood the test of time. Together, we honed in on the four pairs we’re lusting after the most this season and styled them up to show you just how we’re wearing them. Here’s why we never get sick of a classic black-pant-white-top combo.

A Classic Crop

If you tend to shy away from a pant leg that is on the conservative side, I’m here to ask you to kindly reconsider. Jasmine, who since moving to New York City has nailed the cool-girl look down pat, is all about taking a polished piece and styling it up with edgier items. What I love about these pants is they’re the perfect length and cuff to pair with a chunky boot and somehow just as good with a daintier heel. Either way, don’t be afraid to add some leather.

A Slit-Hem Pant

Please note: A slit-hem pant is a heavily discussed item for fall and for good reason. If you’re ready to extend the length of your pants but you’re not ready for a flare, this silhouette is a timeless one that has some edge to it. Unsurprisingly, Lauren’s an early adopter of this very trendy PAIGE style, so I’m going to follow her lead and wear them with statement shoes that have a little height, whether that’s a wedge heel, a lug-sole boot, or an extra-chunky sneaker.

An Ultra Flare

If you’ve graduated from slit-hem pants and are ready for something a little more extreme, say hello to the ultra flare. And when I say ultra flare, I mean a polished wide-leg silhouette that doesn’t scream costumey. This PAIGE style is Jasmine’s go-to silhouette. Styled with a pair of classic pumps, it’s perfect for feeling like you have your shit together. What I especially like about this look is how Jasmine incorporated just the right amount of trend by way of her yin-yang top and chain belt, adding up to a curated take on a truly classic outfit.

A Pleated Trouser

For something put-together yet casual (and perfect for showing off new fall footwear), I’m always recommending a cropped, pleated trouser to anyone who will listen. Lauren agrees, telling me these are perfect for transitioning through those unpredictably warm fall days. I love how she’s styled hers with a low-key knit vest, partially tucked, and western-inspired knee-high boots. It’s all very fall in California, and the monochrome makes a great case for timeless looks.