How to style tailored trousers so they look modern, not stiff
Tailored trousers look modern when the shape is relaxed and the styling is easy. Choose a high waist and a wide, straight leg, tuck in a fitted top so your waist shows, and get the hem to just graze your shoes. Then dress them down with a tee and sneakers, or up with a knit or vest and heels. What makes trousers look stiff is a boxy jacket, a low rise and a hem that bunches.
What makes trousers look modern?
| Detail | Modern | Dated |
|---|---|---|
| Rise | High waist | Low or mid rise |
| Leg | Wide or straight, with front pleats | Tight and tapered at the ankle |
| Top | Fitted, tucked in | Long and loose over the waist |
| Hem | Just grazes the shoe | Bunched at the ankle or too short |
Our tailored trousers
- Gabriella OL Suit Trousers (RM89): high-waist, full wide leg with front tuck pleats and side pockets; brown, charcoal grey or black; S to L.
- Too hot for full length? The Ayanna Tailored Suit Pants (RM45) are the shorts version: high-waist suit shorts with front box pleats and a free belt, in black, grey, brown or cream white.
5 ways to wear them
1. With a white tee and loafers
Tuck the Slim Fit Basic Cotton Tee (RM39) into brown or black trousers and add loafers. It's the easiest smart-casual outfit there is.
2. With a fitted knit for the office
A high-neck knit like the Parisa High Neck Knitted Top (RM59) with charcoal trousers looks polished in a cold office.
3. With a tweed vest
Wear the vest from the Jane Anne Tweed Set Wear with light beige or brown trousers for a soft, tonal look.
4. Belted, all one colour
Beige trousers, a cream top and a thin belt make a clean, tonal look that lengthens your legs.
5. With sneakers for the weekend
Black trousers, a fitted tee and white sneakers: comfortable for errands and still neat.
Which colour should I start with?
If you only buy one pair, choose black or charcoal: they go with every top you own and look smart at work. Brown and almond beige feel warmer and softer, and look especially good with cream, camel and white. Once you have a neutral pair, a second colour gives you twice as many outfits with the same tops.
How long should tailored trousers be?
For a wide leg, the hem should just touch the top of your shoes, or graze the floor in heels. Check the length in the size chart against your height and your usual shoes: Gabriella's legs are 98–99 cm. If you're petite, pointed flats or a small heel help a floor-grazing pair; a tailor can also take up the hem.
Care tips
- Hang trousers by the waistband with clips so the pleats stay sharp.
- Steam rather than iron directly; use a cloth if you do iron.
- Wash cool and gently, inside out, and don't tumble dry.
More workwear: how to dress for the modern workplace and how to style a white tee for work.
FAQ
Do tailored trousers suit petite women?
Yes. Choose a high waist, tuck in your top, and wear pointed flats or a small heel so the hem doesn't bunch.
Should I size up or down?
Choose by waist. Wide-leg trousers have room through the hips, so a waist that fits is more important.
Can I wear tailored trousers in hot weather?
Yes. A wide leg lets air move. Pair them with a short-sleeve or sleeveless top.