Wide-leg, tailored, jeans or cargo pants, I'm most definitely a trouser girl at heart. No matter the occasion, be it work, dinners out, cocktail evenings or simply running errands, your safest bet would have me in trousers. Luckily, trousers, notably wide-leg styles, have reigned supreme over the last few seasons, and show no sign of shifting. Long gone are the days of tailoring being reserved for the office, paired with uncomfortable courts and a matching fitted blazer. Don't worry if that description made you shudder. The fashion set has reclaimed tailoring, with a modern reconfiguration of oversized fit that suits many more occasions than just the boardroom.
Right now, I have my sights on a particular pair of trousers. They're a smart design, exquisitely tailored and come in at a reasonable price (thank you, COS). But, with every purchase, careful consideration must be taken. Especially now, if I'm adding to basket, I have to be sure that the piece will work hard in my wardrobe, and yours too. So, I've taken it upon myself to prove the true versatility of this pair of trousers by building five outfits around COS's wide-leg tailored trousers.
As somewhat of a minimalist, I often find myself turning to high-street hero COS. The selection of sleek, expensive-looking designs that don't require taking out a second mortgage make it a no-brainer when shopping. Now for the trousers in questions, he relaxed shape is a comfortable go-to, and the high-end looking tailoring adds a put-together feel that can be styled for all time of day. Don't worry, I plan to show you exactly how.
Keep scrolling for 5 ways to style the COS wide-leg trousers for the office, cocktails, dinners and more.
1. Trench Coat + Shirt + Necklace + Loafers
Style Notes: Play on the inherent smartness of tailored trousers pair by styling for work with a striped shirt, classic trench and timeless loafers.
SHOP THE LOOK:
I find myself reaching for my trench coat all year round.
A staple striped shirt is always a clever wardrobe addition.
Jewellery is that finishing touch that pulls a look together.
The trousers in question.
If you told me these were designer, I'd believe you.
2. Cardigan + Vest + Trainers + Crossbody
Style Notes: Spring is all about light layers, and a vest-and-cardigan combination is an easy one to rely on. The smart casual balance is perfect for more relaxed office attire, or coffee dates.
SHOP THE LOOK:
Celebrate colourful spring days with this bold green cardi.
This looks so soft.
The sharp pleating adds to the high-quality look of this pair.
This COS bag has a cult following of its own.
Simple white trainers feature in so many outfit formulas.
3. Blazer + Striped Top + Chelsea Boots
Style Notes: A striped top features in all the greatest capsule wardrobes for its versatility to work for day, work or evening. Style with tailored trousers and a fun spring-hued blazer for working lunches, or swap out boots for mules go take this look to evening.
SHOP THE LOOK:
If you need a change from a classic black blazer, this dusty pink is a strong contender.
The striped middle and plain sleeves sets this apart from so many others.
The length is perfect for slight puddling.
Don't let the picture fool you, this bag is surprisingly roomy.
Looking for a smart yet flat footwear option? Look no further than the humble chelsea boot.
4. Easy Tee + Scarf + Crossbody + Trainers
Style Notes: It can't just be me who finds off-duty styling as tricky as a night out ensemble. When in doubt, a simple monochromatic look never fails, and adding a printed scarf (think neckerchief or bandana) and gold hoops will take this look from simple to Scandi cool.
SHOP THE LOOK:
A simple white tee can go a long way.
These might just be the perfect everyday hoops.
There's so many ways to style a scarf. Wear as a neckerchief, tie around a ponytail, or even as a scarf top in the warmer months.
This pair also comes in a neutral beige, bold blue and vibrant pink.
Made from recycled polyester, recycled cotton and recycled rubber.
5. Light Jacket + Bandeau Top + Sandals + Earrings
Style Notes: Nineties minimalism is on the rise for 2023, and a bandeau top and buckled sandals are icons of the trend. To ready this look for cocktail hour, add a light jacket and some bold earrings.
SHOP THE LOOK:
This immediately went on my wish list.
Strapless styles are definitely having a moment.
By this point, I'm pretty much convinced.
Sleek, understated and making its way to my handbag collection.
The buckle detail and refined design adds that 90's touch.
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