You’re totally forgiven for scratching your head over which trouser or denim shape to commit to in 2016. There’s no one dedicated silhouette that defines the S/S 16 collections, but the mood is decidedly experimental. The collections partly champion directional tailoring, only to be closely followed by normcore’s beloved straight-leg look. Then there are some racy transparent PVC trews (thank you J.W.Anderson) that contend with Chanel’s wet-look baby pink flares (yes, really).
The style circuit is overwhelmed in choice when it comes to bottoms with joie de vivre and jeans shapes cut every which way and how. However, fashion’s elite has unified on the resolution that spray-on skinnies are to be left alone for a year or so… Well, until we change our minds next week, of course!
To demystify the trouser game, we’ve clocked the key styles and how to wear them in the moment. Scroll down for a master class on 2016’s must-have trousers.
Catwalk Notes: Chanel’s unapologetic high-shine pink two-piece is a departure from its classic bouclé. There’s no mistaking the loud trouser vibe has caught on at Lagerfeld’s HQ, so please swing your 2.1 bag in this direction.
Catwalk Notes: Loewe has single-handedly redefined the statement trouser this season, with wide-leg mock croc and these transparent PVC trews that take a double dose of confidence to pull off. Wear with a long top, roomy tote bag and kitten heels for the so-now twist.
Read our guide on how to wear metallic pieces 24/7.
Catwalk Notes: Proenza Schouler has gone down the ladylike route with a 2016 spin—the cut of the trousers are slimline but loose, and the hemline dips at the back to elongate the leg. These are best suited to dress with flats and a high-octane top.
Catwalk Notes: Voluminous, sharply tailored and fluid, Céline’s trousers are cut to flatter and animate the woman about town. Style them with a clever cami and pointed-toe shoes.
Catwalk Notes: J.W.Anderson’s daredevil lace trousers get the cool treatment with metallic ankle boots and cling film–look vest top. You can make them more wearable with the addition of a fitted blouse and a silk bomber.
Catwalk Notes: It's not a skinny, but it's an extreme straight-leg; note that difference. Topshop Unique's pink leather trousers capture the season's love of strawberry sorbet shades perfectly. There's no better time to join the Pink Ladies.
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Catwalk Notes: Architectural cuts, post-modern twists and experimental fabric structuring is the new way to draw attention to the feminine allure of S/S 16. Stella McCartney does it best in white crêpe-de-chine and silk-wool blends.
Catwalk Notes: The brocade trouser resurfaced in Alessandro Michele's S/S 16 collection with tongue-in-cheek glory! Dare to wear it with the matching Gucci jacket for a fashion homerun or add a classic cream knit to chill it out (well, a touch!)
Catwalk Notes: The track pant is officially back in thanks to one of our favourite French fashion houses, Chloé! Dig out your '70s-inspired tracksuits or invest in the catwalk's coolest version.
Catwalk Notes: The most wearable and refreshing trousers style of the season is certainly the Givenchy relaxed pyjama style. Wear it with a cami and slicked back hair to capture the runway look in real life.
Up your trousers game! Shop new season styles at Matches. Which high-fashion trousers do you most want to wear? Comment below!