I Want to Look Polished This Spring—These High-Street Trousers Are the Key

Trousers have come a long way from their reputation as the obligatory officewear piece or, dare I say it, their longstanding affinity with schoolwear *shudders*. We’ve all been there, forcibly scouring the high street as pre-teens for less-than-inspiring bootcut slacks. Now, however, they’re hailed as a hero piece—a wardrobe essential we’ve welcomed into our adult uniform with open arms. The circular nature of fashion has resulted in trousers of all sorts gaining some traction over the last couple of years.

Through pop culture icons such as Diane Keaton in everything from Annie Hall to Baby Boom, Melanie Griffith in Working Girl and, of course, Princess Di circa the 1990s, it’s clear to see the power of a woman in a strong trouser look through the eyes of fashion history. Let’s not forget the Parisian influence. The French do trouser outfits year-round paired with a stone trench and ballet pumps for an understated look.

@kimturkington_ wears black COS wide-leg trousers

(Image credit: @kimturkington_)

However, I'm of the opinion that you don't need to spent a fortune to upgrade your outfits as such—the high street has produced some timeless trousers with beautiful compositions and fits to see you through the years. When it comes to picking trousers on the high street, it’s all in the detail. A tapered waist or the addition of belt loops offer versatility, as you’re able to pull in the waist and accentuate the length. Also, look for quality tailoring. Pressed creases and darting provide a more pronounced shape, giving styles a high-end look. From sweeping palazzo pants and tapered-leg trousers to relaxed wide-leg styles and chinos, there is something to suit all styles.

The styling options are endless. A barely there open back or boat-neck vest is my favourite way of styling simple trousers for the evening. Throughout the day, I wear mine with a button-down shirt and heeled boots or trainers, depending on my mood. Day-to-day trouser looks is here to stay, and I can’t say I’m complaining. Here are the best high-street trousers to consider investing in this season.

Shop the Best High-Street Trousers on the Market

Next Up: The Only Spring/Summer 2024 Fashion Trends I'm Bothered About

Freelance Fashion Editor

Avalon Afriyie is a freelance writer and storyteller based in London. She specialises in sustainable fashion, health and the narratives of marginalised communities.

She has a background in fashion show production and styling, having previously worked on The Clothes Show and with the Lyst Group. Since graduating in 2013 with a BA (Hons) in English and contemporary media, she’s worked as a feature writer for an independent publication and a contributor for Quill’s creator network. She now marries her passion for words and style, writing for some of the most esteemed fashion and lifestyle publications, Who What Wear UK and Stylist.

Avalon also provides copywriting services, creative consultancy, and visual media for independent businesses, including travel guides, interviews, press releases and blog posts. Her work has been featured on Lush, Contiki, Youswim and Ohne.

She spends her days writing to her heart’s content for business and pleasure, shooting on film and dreaming of residing a stone’s throw away from the ocean with her love and a pup (clad in a sweeping frock, of course). She’s currently penning ideas for a book of personal essays and free verse poetry on love, life and the stages in between.

With contributions from