Recently, as I was doing my cold-weather clothing swap, I noticed that I had the basic staples covered but was lacking pants that truly reflected my sense of style. I wanted “main character energy” pants. If you’re asking yourself, “What in the world are ‘main character’s energy’ pants?!?” I simply mean pants that are the focal point of your outfit rather than simply a pair of basic bottoms that will go with anything.
Don’t get me wrong — I love and adore my trusty black leggings. After all, they are a staple in most of our wardrobes year-round. But the following styles are just as easy to wear and style, just with a bit more oomph.
Here are five of the hottest ‘main character energy’ types of plus size pants that you should consider adding to your closet, including sexy leather, bold metallic, and preppy printed trousers — because we think you deserve all the options!
Leather & Faux Leather Plus-Size Pants
When it comes to fall and winter wardrobe staples, a great pair of leather (or faux leather) pants are a must. Whether you chose real leather or vegan leather, these pants will keep you warm without sacrificing style. This year, you can practically find leather pant options in any style you can imagine — plus sizes included.
Ahead, you’ll see some top picks in plus size options, including work-friendly picks. If you are looking for a more sporty and casual option, check out the River Island faux leather leggings, which feature a skinny fit and elasticized waistband for all-day comfort.
NYDJ Plus Size Marilyn Faux Leather Jeans, $, available at Bloomingdale’s
Maeve The Colette Faux Leather Pants, $, available at Anthropologie
River Island Plus Black Faux Leather Leggings, $, available at River Island
The Drop Theor Vegan Leather Trouser, $, available at Amazon
Ellos Skinny Leather Pants, $, available at Catherine’s
Printed Plus-Size Pants
This pant category is so much fun. You can really show off your personality and unique sense of style; choose from a classic print pattern like the Velveteen Tartan pants from Talbots, or go for the grunge-inspired gothic rose print from ASOS. Another bonus perk that comes with wearing these printed beauties? They double as conversation starters.
Talbots Velveteen Straight Leg Pants – Tartan, $, available at Talbots
Lucy & Yak L.E. Alexa Trousers, $, available at Lucy & Yak
ASOS CURVE Pull On Kick Flare Pants in Grunge Floral Print, $, available at ASOS
Princess Polly Radiant Pants, $, available at Princess Polly
11 Honoré Devan Jogger, $, available at Dia & Co.
Plus-Size Wide Leg Trousers & Pants
Don’t be afraid of taking up space in wide-leg pants. I know that as plus-size people, we are often told what is and what isn’t flattering and that looser styles should be avoided… but we are letting go of those archaic (and frankly fatphobic) fashion “tips.” Personally, I have never gotten more compliments than when I wear wide-leg trousers! If you are still on the fence about grabbing a pair of wide-leg pants, or don’t know where to look, check out these options.
Tamara Malas Partner Pant, $, available at Verishop
Melrose and Market Satin Pull-On Pants, $, available at Nordstrom Rack
Rebdolls Fall Favorite Corduroy Wide Leg Pants, $, available at Rebdolls
Nooworks Business Pant, $, available at Nooworks
Torrid Pull-On Wide Leg Stretch Lurex High-Rise Pant, $, available at Torrid
Metallic Plus-Size Pants
Shimmer and shine with these showstopping bottoms. The metallic trend is huge right now, and it’s honestly easy to see why. Whether you don a more casual option, like the ones from A New Day, or chose the risque but oh-so-stunning metallic mesh pants (perfect for warmer climates, or to take with you on a beach vacation), you’ll be sure to turn heads.
Gabi Fresh x FTF Robyn Ultra High Rise Metallic Pants, $, available at Fashion to Figure
Forever21 Plus Plus Size Split Hem Leggings, $, available at Forever21
Fashion to Figure Bailey Metallic Mesh Pants, $, available at Fashion to Figure
NastyGal Plus Size Sequin Kick Flared Pants, $, available at NastyGal
Plus-Size Jeans
Jeans will never be out of style; they are staples for a reason. These versatile bottoms can go from casual to dressy with ease. Skinny jeans will always have a special place in our hearts, but don’t be afraid to make room for other styles like flares or straight legs, or jeans with embellishments. We picked the following plus-size jeans because they are anything but basic.
Madewell The Plus Perfect Vintage Straight Jean in Becker Wash: Button-Front Edition, $, available at Madewell
Universal Standard ComfortDenim Stovepipe Jeans, $, available at Universal Standard
Pilcro The Icon Flare Jeans, $, available at Anthropologie
Levi’s 711 Skinny Women’s Jeans (Plus Size), $, available at Levi’s
Ashley Stewart Embellished Distressed Skinny Jeans, $, available at Ashley Stewart
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