If you’re looking for a no-brainer way to level-up your summer outfits but aren’t into dresses or skirts, rest assured, trousers can lend themselves just as well to the hotter summer months as their floaty counterparts, if not even more so. Just as versatile as other bottom-half alternatives, well-chosen pairs of summer trousers present an endless array of outfit options that can easily be transitioned from day to night, and from brunch dates to rooftop drinks.
Whether you’re looking to embrace the relaxed sophistication of linen trousers or want fresh ways to wear your favourite denim, I consulted my preferred reference point—Instagram, of course—to find the sleekest summer trouser outfits I could. My goal was to inspire your looks for the season ahead while giving myself some easy ‘fits to copy in the process. No one said being a fashion editor was completely selfless, after all.
So, if you prefer trousers to dresses or are just looking for new ways to develop your style over the next few months, scroll on to see eight easy summer trouser outfits that are prepped and ready for the heat.
Style Notes: Nothing says summer quite like a scarf top. I’m enjoying the pairing of lightweight silk and linen in this summer trouser outfit.
Wear this as a top or a headscarf depending on your look.
I consider these to be a summer staple.
Toteme on sale? I’m in.
Style Notes: Tailored trousers will always look great during the day, but I particularly like styling them for nighttime. Take your cues from Marianne (pictured) by pairing yours with a simple vest top and a slick leather belt for any evening alfresco dining moments that come your way.
COS always delivers on premium basics.
The easiest way to elevate your looks is with a luxe belt.
I hear such great things about these trousers.
Style Notes: Asymmetric necklines are a key trend for summer. Pair yours with bold, printed trousers and some jewellery for the ultimate warm-weather ensemble.
You could try styling this with a linen maxi skirt, too.
So many influencers own this necklace.
How fun are these?
Style Notes: When temperatures hit their peak, you’ll want to keep your fabrics cool. Consider tucking a silk or satin camisole into your trousers for a sleek look that requires minimal effort.
A top you can use to dress up your low-key pieces.
I wear my Missoma hoops every single day.
These come in so many chic colours.
Style Notes: Jeans absolutely fall under the category of trousers (at least they do in my book), and personally, I can’t wait to re-create Lindsey Holland’s low-key look (pictured). The subtle distress to the knee and wide-leg silhouette will be more comfortable to wear in summer temperatures than straight-leg styles.
Knitted tops will save you on cooler summer days and evenings.
A bag that will never date.
Both Lindsey Holland and fellow influencer Monikh Dale own these exact jeans.
Style Notes: I’ve been looking for a pair of striped linen trousers ever since I saw Sasha Mei’s look (pictured), which also ticks off another major trend this year—the waistcoat.
I’m into this fitted cut.
These are so breezy!
Give your neutral looks an unexpected twist with a colourful shoe.
Style Notes: Clash your prints in a subtle way with a pair of bold motif trousers accompanied by a graphic tee, just like Monikh in this look. Keep accessories neutral to ensure your outfit remains perfectly balanced.
I’d also wear this with jorts.
Dragon Diffusion bags are a summer non-negotiable for so many fashion people.
The coolest print you’ll find on the high street, no question.
Style Notes: Between the cropped baby tee, the billowing linen trousers slung low on the hip and a silver choker necklace, this summer trouser outfit is practically a love letter to all that was good about ’90s fashion.
