I'm Going to Wear These Easy Anti-Jean Trousers for Months to Come

It hasn't even started yet, but I’m already dreading the end of summer. Hasn't it been refreshing to pop some on lightweight clothes, slip into sandals and ditch all of the fussy layers? One wardrobe staple in particular has become such a favourite that I'm inclined to start wearing them all year round: wide-leg linen trousers.

As an editor I spend a lot of time researching trends and analysing street style, and believe me when I say that this failsafe anti-jeans option is something that remains a classic, suits everyone and is easily the comfiest trousers you'll wear all year. I have already been getting heaps of use of of a perfect-fit Totême pair, but the high-street options for looser-leg linen silhouettes abound: COS, H&M, Arket, M&S, Abercomrbie… every retailer has their take on the capsule wardrobe essential, and they're selling like hotcakes. What's more is that I genuinely believe linen trousers can look really chic paired with a leather blazer, a denim shirt or a chunky knit, meaning you actually can take a summery pair into the autumn.

White or cream linen trousers are almost always available from designers and on the high street every summer, but fast-forward to spring 2023, and there are a few details that have brought the classic trousers well up to date. Look for belted high waists, pleat-fronts, ultra wide-leg silhouettes and new colourways like olive green, khaki and brown. 

wide-leg-linen-trousers-294301-1626775360973-image

(Image credit: @_jessicaskye)

Jessica Skye adds a one-shoulder black top, a pair of flip-flops and a raffia bag to her linen trousers to complete this perfect summer look.

This trend has been regularly spotted on influencers as well. Studio Arva owner Abi Omole, previously featured on Best Wardrobes in Britain, pairs her cream trousers with a peach vest and a pistachio cardi. Lorna of Symphony of Silk styles a padded vest with white linen trousers, a Prada bag and Converse shoes, and Jessica Skye has opts for a one-shoulder vest with linen trousers, sandals and a beach-ready raffia bag. 

Meanwhile, in the Who What Wear office, we have a few particular styles that have become our tried-and-tested favourites. Editor-in-chief Hannah Almassi swears by Reformation's Mason pants, Emily Dawes rates multiple M&S pairs, and social media editor Joy Ejaria has found the perfect fit at Uniqlo.

wide-leg-linen-trousers-294301-1626779427958-image

(Image credit: @symphonyofsilk)

Style Notes: Laid-back but still super cool, Lorna of Symphony of Silk knows how to make her linen trousers look fresh and chic. 

All three influencers might have gone for pale-coloured wide-leg linen trousers, but there are plenty of other options around. Keep scrolling to see how to style your linen trousers, and to shop my edit of the very best on the market.

HOW TO WEAR LINEN TROUSERS 

wide-leg-linen-trousers-294301-1682447398741-main

(Image credit: @smythsisters)

Style Notes: The supersized volume makes these baggy linen trousers feel entirely fresh. 

wide-leg-linen-trousers-294301-1682447612448-main

(Image credit: @brittanybathgate)

Style Notes: The easiest way to wear white linen come summer? A matchy co-ord of course.

wide-leg-linen-trousers-294301-1682447831925-main

(Image credit: @alexisforeman)

Style Notes: When the weather is cooler layer up your your linen with our favourite transitional piece, the trench coat. 

wide-leg-linen-trousers-294301-1682448319078-main

(Image credit: @sasha.mei)

Style Notes: Break up a three-piece suit and mix and match the pieces to create a whole new look. 

wide-leg-linen-trousers-294301-1682452747008-main

(Image credit: @Monikh )

Style Notes: Neutral hues always look expensive so pair camel with fresh whites, khakis, and black for a chic look in 5 minutes. 

SHOP MY EDIT OF THE BEST WIDE-LEG LINEN TROUSERS