Day To Night: How To Wear This Season’s Pleat Front Trousers

11th April 2023 | By Astrid Carter

They’re the cool girl’s silhouette whether you’re dressing up for evening or looking for a comfy relaxed weekend look. Here’s how to style pleat front trousers four ways and make the most of your wardrobe.

Inspired by menswear tailoring there is something so simple and contemporary about a classic pleat-front trousers. Whether you lean into an androgynous look and pair with an oversized shirt and loafers or elevate with statement jewels and sheer lace, there’s just something cool about the relaxed wide-leg trousers.

Top of our wish list is Marcela London. We’ve waxed lyrical about this brand many times before but there really is no other tailoring-focused brand that is doing such great shapes and high quality at this price point. Their signature Pin-tuck trousers are £159 and are just as great as any designer pair. We love them with slouchy high-neck knits and metallic point-toe shoes but they look just as good with a simple white tee and comfy sneakers.

If you love that oversized, puddle hem trouser look, The Frankie Shop is another great brand doing this look so well. We love their Gelso pants – available in everything from soft grey to blush raspberry – paired with a matching waistcoat and blazer or a slouchy slogan sweatshirt.

And, as always, there are plenty of high street iterations to consider if you’re working with a smaller budget. Look to the brands that consistently do tailoring well – COS, Zara and Weekday.

 
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Scroll for four outfit ideas on how to do pleat front trousers, from day to night

LOOK 1 – DAY

Lean into the masculine mood of this look and pair a navy pair of pleat front trousers with a striped shirt and chunky cable knit jumper. White loafers and a statement chain necklace will add an understated polish.

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LOOK  1 – NIGHT

There is something so sexy about a menswear inspired pair of trousers in the evening. Duo this COS black pair with a form-fitting black lace top and waterfall rhinestone earrings.

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LOOK 2 – DAY

Although traditionally thought of as smart tailored pieces for work or events where you need a bit of polish, we actually love a tailored trouser paired with a sporty sweatshirt and sneakers. The blush pink tone of these The Frankie Shop pair give the look a little softness, whilst the oversized bomber keeps that nonchalant cool edge.

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LOOK 2 – NIGHT

Finally, is there anything chicer than a head-to-toe white look come evening? It may not be the most practical for dinners out but the finished result sure does pay off. Take the tailoring up a notch by adding a vest to your suit and add more feminine accessories for a touch of elegance.

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