These Trousers Are a Capsule Wardrobe Staple—5 Fresh Ways to Wear Them That Are Sure to Invite Compliments

Style may be personal, but certain pieces have universal appeal. True-blue jeans, classic LBDs and cosy knitwear are staples that exist in nearly everyone’s wardrobe. Today, I’m spotlighting one that has always held a special place in mine: black trousers.

Black trousers have been a constant in my closet, evolving with me through every phase of my twenties—and even earlier (looking at you, American Apparel disco pants). They may come in many shapes and sizes, from kick-flares to wide-leg silhouettes, but their versatility is never up for debate. The reason is simple: black goes with literally everything. With a timeless noir foundation, you have the freedom to be bold with the top half of your outfit, experimenting with colour, pattern and texture.

That said, my favourite black trouser outfits lean into the elegance this piece naturally exudes. Admittedly, bright colours make me nervous, so I tend to stick with a neutral palette that lets the black take centre stage, rather than fade into the background. The following five looks are prime examples, showcasing how effortlessly chic these “boring” trousers can be with minimal effort.

BLACK TROUSER OUTFITS TO COPY THIS WINTER:

1. Wool Coat + Wide-Leg Trousers + Loafers

Black trouser outfits: @lizzyhadfield wears a beige coat with wide-leg trousers and loafers

Style Notes: A wool coat and black trousers pairing is what I live in all winter long. Throw in some masculine-style loafers, and you’ve got yourself a versatile formula for both your work and weekend outfit rotation.

Shop the Look:

cos

Flecked Turtleneck Jumper

cos

Relaxed Tailored Wool Wide-Leg Trousers

GHBASS

Easy Weejuns Penny Loafers

2. Waistcoat + Leather Trousers + Kitten Heels

Black trouser outfits: @femmeblk wears a waistcoat with leather trousers

Style Notes: As party season heats up, it’s important to have some tried-and-tested outfits in your arsenal. Lydia’s elegant look incorporates seasonal trends—waistcoats and leather trousers—while retaining a timeless feel.

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reiss

Leanna White Wool Blend Single Breasted Tux Waistcoat

Agolde

90s Pinch Waist Leather-Blend Trouser

Bottega Veneta

Women’s Andiamo Clutch in Black

MANGO

Kitten-Heeled Shoes

3. Relaxed Blazer + Tapered Trousers + Chunky Boots

Black trouser outfits: @_livmadeline wears a blazer with tapered black trousers and boots

Style Notes: Not a fan of the wide-leg look? Choose a tapered cut and reserve the boxy proportions for the top half of your outfit with a roomy blazer. Easy peasy.

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Reformation

Parker Oversized Blazer

M&S Collection

Pleat Front Tapered Ankle Grazer Trousers

THE ROW

Zipped Chunky-Sole Leather Ankle Boots

4. Black Maxi Coat + Tailored Trousers + Trainers

Black trouser outfits: @anoukyve wears a long black coat with tailored trousers and trainers

Style Notes: Colour me boring, but I always feel so chic stepping out in an all-black outfit. Plus, it requires little to no effort to assemble. If you’re craving a hint of colour, complete the look with a green or burgundy sneaker.