The perfect work trouser?

[fandabbydozier]

So I've lost some weight and need to update my wardrobe. I'm going back to work soon after a year on maternity and need some decent trousers for work. Smart, straightish cut I guess. Definitely not flappy at the bottom. I'm quite short 5'5, wear both heels and flats and a 12-14 depending on the shop. I'm looking for a black pair and a grey pair. Machine washable. Help me please?!

[bloodypassword]

I got a pair of great trousers from Matalan. Washable, straight legged, look great. I get lots of compliments. Cheap too

[AmberNectarine]

these are great, inexpensive work trousers.

[BillStickersIsInnocent]

Yep agree on uniqlo - they are great trousers. Flattering and comfortable.

Gap also worth a try - the slim crops are good.

[NeonNails]

Banana Republic do lovely thick, slightly stretch 7/8 trousers that look great with flats or heels. Very flattering

[fandabbydozier]

Those uniqlo ones look like they have no buttons or zips?! Do you just pull them on? They look like they are worth a try. I want trousers that will last well. I'm fed up of Next / M&S trousers that lose all their shape. Keep the ideas coming and I'll make a list for a shopping trip!

[hollieberrie]

Gap - the skinny ultra pants or the bi-stretch skinny ankle pants - both super slimming and very flattering - good quality material. My holy grail work trousers.
Tried the Gap slim crops but didn't find them very slim at all even in a small size - so I sent them back. The above pairs are muuuch more slimming and flattering.

[AmberNectarine]

Yes, you just pull them on.

[fandabbydozier]

I'd worry the gap skinnies would be too tight on my thighs but will go and try some. I've got a mum tum too after two sections.

[Polkadot1974]

Any chance of s link to the matalan ones? Thanking you

[fandabbydozier]

How do you find the sizing on the uniqlo trousers? I'm half way between a 12 and a 14, should I go for M or L?

Thanks all for your help so far. Much appreciated.

[AllPizzasGreatAndSmall]

I usually wear an 8 in trousers, sometimes 10 in skinny jeans and have S in the Uniqlo trousers and they are not particularly roomy.

[cheapskatemum]

Another vote for Matalan ones here and mine cost £12, half the price of Uniglo, plus they have a button and a zip . They keep their shape too. My only quibble with them is that the black has faded to dark grey after repeated washing with non bio washing liquid. This doesn't sound as if it'd be a problem for you, but I'm supposed to wear black trousers not grey! You should be ok with a size 12.

[fandabbydozier]

Can anyone link the matalan ones?

[fandabbydozier]

Anyone?

[cheapskatemum]

Sorry, I had a go, but the Matalan website doesn't seem to give items a product code, so I couldn't work out how to post a link. The website is really easy to negotiate, you select women's wear, then trousers, then slim leg, black, size 12 all on the left hand menus. A few pairs will come up, only 2 of which cost £12. Choose which ones you prefer. Hope this helps!

[fandabbydozier]

Thanks cheap. I'll have a look.

[nothruroad]

What are matalan sizes like? I'm between an 8 and a 10 - would you go smaller or larger here?

[fandabbydozier]

Hi nothru, I'm a 12-14 and been advised to get a 12 so I'd say an 8 for you.

[cheapskatemum]

I agree, I'm a 10-12 and the size 12s I bought are baggy on me, I have to wear a belt. I wear a tunic on top, so not a problem - it's nice to have a bit of room! They are a bit stretchy as well, so even if the size 8 is snug on you, it will still fit iyswim.