It all started back in spring when COS introduced a pair of beige wide-leg trousers that filled the gap in our wardrobes created by the phenomenon that was The Row’s 2021 pleat-front Phoebe pants. From Kendall Jenner to Rosie Huntington-Whiteley, many über-minimalists couldn’t resist their pared-back, timeless charm. At a cool £1420, these exact trousers understandably didn’t make their way into the wardrobes of our editors or anyone we know. Although there is a huge difference between a well-cut pair of trousers and an ill-fitting pair (not to mention the fabrics and finishes used), the style itself—a simple, roomy leg with a high waist—wasn’t unusual or different and could be traced back easily to slacks from the ’90s, ’80s and even ’30s. In fact, 1932 was dubbed The Year of Wearing Trousers, and the exact same silhouette led the pack then. To say this is a timeless and worthwhile investment is an understatement, but to be able to take part in said investment for something more around the £100 mark is certainly preferable.
COS clearly saw a great resonance with its first round of beige trousers, as new versions have been launching ever since. In varied colours and fabric compositions and with slight tweaks to certain cuts (you’ll find linen styles with elasticated inner-waist sections so you can adjust the fit—amazing), there’s a loose-fitting pair of COS trousers for most people out there, and they’re pretty true to size. I’d love to see the sizing go beyond an 18, but at least they do go up to an 18, unlike some high-street labels. Keep scrolling to shop the famously good COS wide-leg trousers, and see how people (including our editors) are wearing them.
Style Notes: Tailored trousers can work really well with a sporty bomber and sneakers.
Style Notes: I fell in love with these after contributor Lily Russo-Bah (below) tried them on for a story.
Style Notes: Add a vest, and you have 2022 wrapped up.
Style Notes: There isn’t a single minimalist influencer I know who hasn’t got a pair.
Style Notes: These bright trousers look great with neutral colours. The orange has now sold out, but you’ll find lots of different hues in stock.
Style Notes: You can easily restyle these trousers for autumn or winter with your shoe and top choices.
Style Notes: When in doubt over what to wear with bright pants, simply colour-match your top.
Style Notes: Affiliate editor Emily also has the green linen style along with the matching shirt—they’re that good! Up next, low-maintenance haircuts to match any look.
