This Unexpected Micro-Trend Will Make Your Outfits Look So Much Cooler

Sometimes it's the little tweaks to staple items that make all the difference. A gather to the shoulder to create a puff sleeve, the addition of a pleat to define a waistline, the elongation of a sleeve to create a new silhouette. Some of fashion's coolest garments are those which are simple but have an understated twist. And a testament to this thought is the new split-front trouser trend that seems to be sweeping the style ether.

Split-hem trousers were first seen on the Victoria Beckham catwalk, and since they've become a firm staple in the closets of those whom we aspire to dress like. From minimalists like stylist Sylvie Mus to avant-garde dresser Evangelie Smyrniotaki, the tailored separate is a hit with just about every sartorial subgroup. Not that it's hard to see why.

The subtle flash of skin is a nod to approaching spring, which also acts as a frame to your favourite footwear, be it a pair of statement, jewel-encrusted heels or a pair of utilitarian boots. For day-to-day or after dark, this micro-trend can be worn in a multitude of ways. As such, we've documented the strongest split-front trouser outfits below for you to peruse. Then, proceed to shop our favourite pairs.

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(Image credit: @camillecharriere)

Camille takes the French approach by styling her split front trousers with Breton stripes. 

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(Image credit: @erika_boldrin)

Erika makes her tailored trousers look all the more fierce by wearing them with an animal-print hoodie. 

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(Image credit: @sylviemus_)

Sylvie proves that the trend transcends to denim, too. 

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(Image credit: @styleheroine)

Evangelie proves the suit is still a strong after dark contender. 

SHOP THE BEST SPLIT-FRONT TROUSERS

Next: Mark my words, this Zara staple is set to be just as popular as its spotty dress.

Maxine Eggenberger
Deputy Editor

Maxine Eggenberger is Who What Wear UK’s deputy editor and has over twelve years of experience in fashion journalism. She been creating engaging and elevated style content for Who What Wear UK since 2018, covering runway reports, emerging trends, long-form features, self-styled shopping stories, and columns, including her edit of the best new-in buys. She ensures the highest editorial standards are met across the site, works closely with influencer talent on content initiatives, represents the brand at industry events, and regularly contributes to social media. Previously, Maxine appeared on TV in her own fashion segment and has interviewed countless celebrities—everyone from Victoria Beckham to Oscar winner Lupita Nyong’o. 


Prior to Who What Wear UK, Maxine’s career began when, after completing her first-ever internship, she was offered a position on the Look magazine fashion desk. She accepted, leaving university a year early in the process. She went on to become the title's fashion news and commercial content editor, with a stint as InStyle.co.uk’s fashion writer along the way. She later served as Look’s acting Editor in Chief before embarking on a successful freelance career, working with Grazia, The Pool, and Marie Claire amongst others. Maxine works remotely from her countryside home near Edinburgh.