These 6 Outfits Have Convinced Me—I Need Some Striped Trousers in My Life
Striped trousers are a versatile and stylish addition to any wardrobe. Whether you prefer a classic pinstripe or a bold, colourful stripe, there are endless ways to wear this trend in a way that's both chic and on-trend, and influencers are certainly capitalising on their versatility right now.
As we ease into the warmer months, striped trousers make for a stylish and comfortable alternative to jeans, especially if you opt for the lightweight or linen fabrications that are prevalent on the market right now. However, as with any printed or statement piece, it's important to work out how to style them to avoid looking too busy or clashing.
Making use of the endless inspiration on social media right now, I've found six outfits which perfectly showcase how to wear striped trousers. From pairing them with elevated tailoring and heels to adding equally breezy layers and sandals for balmy summer days, there are plenty of ways to make this trend work for you. So whether you're dressing up for a night out or looking to add some excitement to your everyday wardrobe, read on for some inspiration on how to wear striped trousers.
1. Bandeau + Striped Trousers + Ballet Flats
Style Notes: When you're looking to dress up your striped trousers, a bandeau and ballet flats are a foolproof way to do so. There's something so elegant about these two items, especially when worn together. Simply add your favourite shoulder bag and you're ready for any occasion.
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2. Waistcoat + Striped Trousers + Heeled Sandals
Style Notes: In the peak of summer when it's too hot to throw on a blazer, a waistcoat is a great alternative. Add a statement necklace and low-heel sandals and you've got yourself a chic outfit that can be taken from day to night.
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This colourful necklace adds to the relaxed feel of the look.
3. Tank Top + Striped Trousers + Tote Bag + Flip Flops
Style Notes: A tank top is a staple in my wardrobe all year round, and I love how classy it looks with navy pinstripe trousers and flip-flops. This is definitely a low-effort yet stylish outfit combo that I'll be wearing on repeat this summer.
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Navy pinstripe trousers will look good all year round.
4. Crochet Cardigan + Striped Trousers + Handbag
Style Notes: Crochet is a huge trend for summer 2024, and you don't have to wait for your beach holidays to try it out. A crochet cardigan is a great piece to throw on when it's a bit chillier out and I love how Amira has styled hers with classic tailored trousers and sleek loafers.
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Keep a light layer to hand for cooler summer evenings when the sun goes in.
5. Blazer + Striped Trousers + Pumps
Style Notes: If you're looking for a more office-appropriate way to wear your striped trousers, a blazer and heels is an easy way to achieve this. You can even go more daring with a colourful striped pair like Marilyn has.
We've long sung the praises of The Frankie Shop's blazers.
6. Button-Up Shirt + Striped Trousers + Colourful Tote Bag
Style Notes: Why not dress up your striped trousers with playful pops of colour for a mood-boosting look this summer? I love the contrast between Rebecca's bright yellow accessories and the classic white button-up and striped trousers.
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These are sure to boost your mood in the summer months.
Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over thirteen years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content specifically for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, leads the editorial team in their SEO strategy and keyword planning, works closely with the beauty team on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media, including her own Who What Wear UK TikTok franchise, French Style Fridays. Previously, Maxine appeared on ITV's This Morning in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o.
Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship at Look magazine, she was offered a position on the brand's fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. Her passion and natural talent for writing and styling meant she swiftly rose through the ranks to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion and beauty writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief, overseeing both print and digital, before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others.
Maxine is based remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh where she spends her downtime renovating her house, walking her dogs, hosting friends and trying to master the art of making Old Fashioned cocktails.