I don’t know about you, but post-lockdown, I simply cannot deal with being in uncomfortable clothes. Now, I know drawstring and elasticated-waist trousers can be divisive—I have friends who love them, and others won’t go near them—but in an on-trend faux-leather fabric, I think they look pretty chic. And you know what I’m going to say—they’re just as comfortable as joggers, too.
I’ve had a pair in my wardrobe for a couple of years now, and they’ve become a piece I come back to time and time again—I really am so pleased I purchased them. While my original pair is no longer in stock, there are plenty of similar styles to choose from at the moment. My pick? The below option from Mango. Though, I have seen some equally impressive options from M&S and River Island should you fancy a browse.
To prove just how versatile they can be, I’ve styled mine five different ways that work for various spring occasions—from the morning coffee run to after-dark adventures (remember those?). Scroll on to see how to style faux-leather trousers like a pro with my tips and tricks.
1. THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX
I’ve really enjoy maximising the number of wears each item gets. While shopping sustainably has a lot to do with how the clothes are made, it can also be impacted by how little those items get used and eventually end up in the bin. I believe in utilising what I already have as much as possible—the more unexpected, the better! So I took this PJ top for a spin. With the faux-leather trousers, I think it makes a great brunch outfit. Why not see what you can do with your own night or loungewear?
Shop the Look:
2. LIFT YOUR PALETTE
Speaking of sustainability, an independent brand that I love is By Megan Crosby, and I recently purchased a dress from there. It gave me the option of having the collar detached from the dress, which was one of the best decisions that I’ve made because now I can have multiple outfits from that one investment piece. I’ve used it to match the colour of my shacket, and it really helps elevate the dark base colours of my sweater and faux-leather trousers. On my feet are my trusty Dr. Martens, which I thought might look too samey as the fabric of my trousers, but with their chunky sole and elastic insert, I think they work.
Shop the Look:
3. GO CLASSIC IN STRIPES
I’ve touched on utilising my wardrobe, and this item is actually a T-shirt dress. I tuck it in so that it sits like a baggy, oversized tee, and once again, I’m getting multiple wears from one piece. These are my favourite trainers at the moment, and I’ve got my eye on lots of other colourways—all of which I’d wear with my faux-leather trousers.
Shop the Look:
4. USE LEOPARD AS A NEUTRAL
They say that leopard is a neutral, and I would have to agree. This is a great workwear outfit, whether you’re returning to the office or not! If you are, chuck on a lovely coat, and I think you look ready for the day (and for drinks after you clock out).
Shop the Look:
5. HAVE A METALLIC MOMENT
No outfit roundup is complete without an after-dark look. This shiny shirt works well dressed down with trainers but can also be made to look super glam with minimal effort using metallic accessories, my Rixo bag being a personal favourite. With the leather trousers, it makes for a super-comfy outfit I can dance all night in.
Shop the Look:
Next Up: I Just Tried On M&S's Best-Selling Jeans, and I'm Officially a Convert