I’m A Fashion Editor & Here’s Why I’ve (Almost) Ditched Denim In Favour Of Smart Trousers
Jeans may be the long-loved prerequisite for an off-duty wardrobe, but smart trousers work just as hard – if not harder. Offering a more polished look, a surprisingly more comfortable feel, and some modern minimalism, The Handbook’s Contributing Fashion & Lifestyle Editor, Astrid Carter, explains why she’s almost ready to ditch her faithful denim for the versatile power of tailored pants.
They can replace your jeans
Jeans may have long been the default for an off-duty look, but they don’t really have anything else to offer that a smart pant can’t compete with. While I’ll always love my denim (like a great flare for that ’70s vibe or a straight leg for Parisian nonchalance), a smart trouser works just as hard in my day-to-day wardrobe. They can add a cool minimalist feel to an outfit, whilst jeans, for me, always conjure a deliberate nod to nostalgia or an “I’ve dressed down” vibe. Tailored trousers can work just as well as a foundation.
They are actually comfortable
I hate to admit it, but my most flattering jeans are also my least comfortable. They just look better with zero stretch, a high-waist that zeo F’s to tummy comfort, and that crisp denim feel – I cannot get on board with a stretchy jean! So, when I prioritise comfort, I reach for tailored trousers. Their wide-leg cuts and fluid fabrics offer a more gracious fit, meaning you can wear them all day and into the evening. Plus, unlike denim, they rarely lose their shape or crease throughout the day.
Smart trousers work just as hard in my day-to-day wardrobe – they can add a cool minimalist feel to a look.
They go with everything
We’re in such a fun moment of fashion right now, where breaking the rules is actively encouraged. We’ve seen the rise of that Copenhagen or Lisbon style influencer look that is all about pairing very disparate pieces with one another, and it doesn’t just create the most joyful outfits in your repertoire; it ensures you get maximum life out of your wardrobe. Keeping a pair of trailored trosuers for work or dressy nights out? No thanks. I want to wear mine with everything from a silk cami, blazer and heels to a sporty sweatshirt and retro trainers.
They add instant polish
Even when I pair tailored trousers with trainers and a hoodie, they immediately anchor the outfit. They ground the look in a way that feels intentional, polished, and thought-through – even if it was thrown on in minutes, which is often the case with me.
You don’t need a heel
Wearing a flat with a tailored pant is by far my favourite. It looks cool and pulled-together without trying too hard. I’m very faithful to a chunky loafer and fun sock combination, or my reliable SL 72 trainers.
The high street are doing them so well right now
Tailoring might be where you want to invest when it comes to your wardrobe, but you can still get some really great pieces on the high street. More affordable brands are really killing it with tailored trousers right now, offering luxe wool mixes, interesting print and smart details.
Because, controversial opinion: smart trousers can absolutely feel fun and frivolous if you let them.
COS, Arket, and Massimo Dutti are reliable favourites. Zara and H&M also offer very affordable options – I always try on my regular size and a size up, as that looser fit often looks more expensive.
For more mid-range and a bit more money spent, I really rate Marcéla London’s incredibly chic pleat-front trousers that pool beautifully at the bottom (best with a point-toe heel) and La Veste for cute and fun colourways. Because, controversial opinion: smart trousers can absolutely feel fun and frivolous if you let them.
Shop Astrid’s women’s smart trousers edit…
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