They might have started as a trend, but wide-leg trousers have officially earned ‘wardrobe staple’ status, rivalling jeans in the versatility they offer. Wear them to the office, at the weekend, dressed up for an event—the list goes on. Their ability to seamlessly transition between different settings and seasons makes us wonder why they weren't always considered essential.
Styling wide-leg trousers is mostly intuitive; they go with most tops, so it's really a case of choosing an option that suits your personal style and the time of year you're dressing for. While it's hard to go wrong with this trouser type, as it's risen in popularity over the past few seasons, we've taken note of some particularly successful pairings. The tops we have in mind balance out the wide silhouette nicely, look good on everyone and, crucially, are easy to carry with you from summer through winter.
As the seasonal shift draws closer, these six go-to combinations are more valuable than ever. You probably already own these specific tops or similar, so you can recreate the following looks starting from tomorrow. Enjoy!
See the Best Tops to Wear With Wide-Leg Trousers:
1. Button-Down Shirt
Style Notes: Whether you opt for a linen shirt and trousers or cotton poplin with wool wide-legs, this is a combination that will serve you all through the year.
Shop the look:
With Nothing Underneath is a name to know if you value quality and timeless design.
This beautifully tailored pair is perfect for a late-summer getaway.
The contrasting collar and cuffs are a nice touch.
These come Who What Wear editor-approved.
2. Tailored Vest
Style Notes: This pairing is all over Instagram but still hasn't lost its shine. A tailored waistcoat is a smart option to match the elevated feel of wide-leg trousers without committing to full suiting.
Shop the look:
That colour! Expect compliments when you step out in this canary yellow number.
Polished and comfortable thanks to the drawstring waist.
This luxe piece will elevate any outfit.
Psst... there's also a matching waistcoat (but it's almost sold out).
3. Graphic Tee
Style Notes: To make your wide-leg trousers feel more casual, grab a playful slogan tee, your favourite trainers and you're ready for the Saturday morning coffee run.
Shop the look:
This will never go out of style.
Abercrombie makes some of the best trousers on the high street, and they're such a reasonable price.
This relaxed fit will pair nicely with wide tailored trousers.
4. Simple Tank
Style Notes: Out of all the options on the list, the humble tank top takes first prize for wearability. Style it under a shirt in the autumn, wear it on its own in the summer, or use it as a base layer under a sheer top (more on that later).
Shop the look:
I love the high-neck silhouette.
Such an easy-to-style colour.
This shade of green is basically a neutral.
Editors and stylists agree: Frankie Shop trousers are worth their price tag.
5. Sheer Top
Style Notes: To effortlessly balance the weight of wide, floor-sweeping trousers, team them with a sheer mesh or fine-knit top. This combination not only creates a balanced silhouette but also feels dressy enough for evening events.
Shop the look:
Wear a cute bralette underneath.
How comfortable do these look?
Ready for Friday night drinks.
Tap into the low-waist trouser trend with this smart pair.
6. Bandeau Top
Style Notes: Play with proportions by pairing wide-legs with a streamlined bandeau style like Monikh. This look is perfect for summer when you can opt for linen fabrications and flip flops, but also works in party season thanks to being an easy yet polished evening-ready look.
Shop the look:
I've been thinking about this top even since it landed on COS's new-in page.
Don't sleep on & Other Stories's trouser collection this autumn.
Linen is a perfect choice for summer.
How comfy do these look?
-
30 Knit Tops That Are Perfect for a Fall Date NightI'm obsessed with them all.
-
Fall Is Coming—These Transitional J.Crew Finds Prove That Change Can Be EasyOur one-stop shop for cult buys.
-
I'm an Accessory Designer and Fashion Creative—30 Chic Fall Items I Have My Eye OnBring on the elevated outfits.
-
5 Chic Skirt-and-Shoe Combos Fashion People Will Be Reaching for All Fall Long100% adding these to my current outfit rotation.
-
Nordstrom Fall Capsule: We Styled 20 Perfect Items Into Endless Outfit CombosWardrobe staples.
-
Scandi Women Wore This Controversial Shoe Trend With Jeans During Fashion WeekNew Yorkers hate these shoes.
-
I'm in My 20s—Here Are 6 Style Lessons I Learned to Look More Polished and Grown-UpSophisticated styling 101.
-
Not Ready to Let Go of Your Favorite Linen Pants Just Yet? Try These 9 Chic Transitional OutfitsBring on the layers and suede!
