Who's Wearing the Trousers?

Jeans are a year-round staple, and will take you from smart to off-duty. With a retro mood permeating the season, now’s the time to look out your high-waist, wide leg pair. I like to give mine a polished look with elevating separates, which this season means a victoriana-style blouse and checked tailored jacket in substantial wool – perfect for cooler weather.

Ok, so this might not strictly speaking be trousers, however the jumpsuit’s one-step-dressing practicality-factor wins it a place on this list. As well as being one of this season’s key looks, leather is a perennially stylish choice making for smart investment. I fell in love with Nanushka’s faux iteration which is so soft, you wouldn’t believe it’s not the real thing. Layer up with a polo neck underneath.

I love the warm terracotta hue of these Ulla Johnson trousers, which come with a flattering paper-bag waist and will pair stylishly with all manner of autumnal shades, from classic cream and grey to bold pops of red and pink. The versatile tapered leg means you can wear them with all manner of flats, from sleek trainers to ankle and riding boots. The addition of a cute sweater and layered necklaces make the everyday appropriate.

Corduroy never fails to feel on point for autumn, however it can look bulky. Eschew chubby cords, instead opting for a fine needlecord iteration which will give a much more flattering fit. I love the rich chestnut hue of these, which has a nod to the 1970s and will pair effortlessly with an autumnal colour palette. I’ve paired them with a cropped jumper which sits well with the high waistband.

The drawstring trouser is essentially an elevated pair of tracksuit bottoms, so deliver high on all-day comfort factor, making them perfect for office-to-evening wear. I’m impressed with these from Arket, which come made from lightweight wool and have a flattering, gently tailored cut. The leg length is just right for pairing with flats, be they sleek leather loafers or elevated trainers.

Traditionally a spring/summer trouser silhouettes, when rendered in heavyweight fabric and an autumn-ready shade, the culottes makes for a smart transeasonal choice. Proportion is key, look for a high waist and ankle-grazing hem which will prove flattering. I love these from Loewe which have deep, practical pockets and fit just so. Team sleek flats and a crisp shirt for the 9-5, switching to trainers for off-duty wear.

The cargo pant is an essential in my wardrobe and always feels like a stylish, relevant way to do low-key dressing. I’d love to wear mine with heels, but the reality is, I live in flats these days. So instead, I’ll be paring them with a pair of flat boots, which, thanks to the elasticated trouser cuff, works perfectly. Adding classic stripes and a trench adds polish.