The best trousers for women 2026

“I need help to find a pair of trousers that are great quality, fit well and last” is a plea that appears with alarming frequency on Mumsnet. And the answers don’t disappoint.

With 7,591 posts and 209 thread titles including the word 'trousers' in one year alone, we know that finding the perfect pair is a sore point for a lot of women.

Whether users are seeking formal work trousers or a pair of comfy casual joggers, there really is something for everyone.

Here are the best trousers for women, including high-waisted and ankle grazers as well as petite and plus-size trousers too.

The best everyday trousers

1. Robell Slim Fit Stretch Trousers

Price: From £53.53 | Buy now from Amazon

“Get some Robells – honestly the best 50 quid I’ve ever spent. Elasticated waistband, so flattering, easy to wash and non-iron. I’ve just bought a pair of fleece-lined ones (they don’t look bulky at all) and I’ve barely had them off. The normal ones are lovely for any day, and I’m loving the fleece-lined ones because I’m always freezing.”

“Robells look great. Don’t get them too skinny though as they can show the knicker line.”

Smart, easy to wear and available in a whole host of colours, including taupe, aubergine and grey, these pull-on trousers are a great addition to any wardrobe.

They're a bit pricier than other options, but will last much longer so it's worth splashing the extra cash. A fleece-lined version can be bought for winter or summer if your office (home or work) is colder than you'd like.

Related: The best women's jeans to buy this year, with great options from slim fit to mum jeans.

2. Saint + Sofia Camden Wide Leg Pants

Price: £48 | Buy now from Saint + Sofia

“I have two pairs of the Camden wide-leg trousers and find them soft and so comfortable. They keep their shape and wash well.”

These Saint + Sofia trousers came in the top 10 of products bought by Mumsnet users in 2020 so it’s fair to say they're very popular.

Available in three leg lengths – from 28 to 34 inches – they’re made with soft organic cotton and have elastane for a touch of stretch.

The high waist and wide-leg style is very flattering whatever your size and they look just as good with flats as they do with heels.

Related: The best loungewear for women, whether you are home working or just curling up on the sofa.

The best casual trousers

3. Hush Alexa Harem Trousers

Price: £55 | Buy now from Hush

“Utterly fab! I have two pairs.”

“I wore Hush harem pants after having my daughter. They're smart, stretchy and very, very comfortable.”

Have you ever wished that wearing pyjamas in public was more socially acceptable? With these joggers from Hush, you can enjoy that “watching Netflix in my PJs” feeling all day long, while looking like a functioning adult.

They’re comfy enough for lounging at the weekend, but also stylish enough for a lunch out with friends. Even better, they come in size 6 to 18 and two leg lengths. Mumsnet users report they are true to size. The £55 price tag also includes a £10 donation to charity.

4. Icebreaker Merino Crush Pants

Price: From £118 | Buy now from Amazon

“I spent this morning at a four-hour hospital appointment rocking these with a T-shirt and open-checked shirt over the top. I know they are expensive, but I've practically lived in them for the past few months, so they are worth every penny for me (and I got them cheaper on Amazon).”

With a drawstring waist and ribbed cuffs, you'd be mistaken for thinking these trousers were too jogging-bottom-esque for wearing out and about.

However, the smart colour options, slightly fitted shape and 88% merino wool composition mean they're smart enough to wear outside the gym.

They are on the pricey side but if you work out the price on a cost per wear basis you could be quids in! Mumsnetters love that they're comfy but chic and that they even have pockets.

5. Uniqlo Satin Drape Joggers

Price: £12.90 | Buy now from Uniqlo

“I love these – they're very comfy. I'm only 5'2”, so watch out that they don't come up short."

The tapered shape and drape of these satin joggers means they don't look like loungewear (even if it feels like they are).

They are available in size XXS to XX, come in four of Uniqlo's customary neutral colours, and bear Uniqlo's customary affordable price tag. Costing under £15, it means you could treat yourself to more than one pair.

6. Peacocks Yoga Pants

Price: £8 | Buy now from Peacocks

“I live in my Peacocks Yoga Pants. They're a bit too long for me but OK with trainers – and they're usually a tenner.”

Contrary to popular belief, you do not have to be an avid yogi to pull of yoga pants. The slightly flared shape of these trousers is flattering on just about any shape, and they look good with trainers and ballet pumps for a more casual look.

And anyway, why should an elasticated waist and extra-comfort fit be reserved for yoga devotees when they're just as beneficial for lounging on the sofa nipping out to the shops?

The best work trousers

7. Uniqlo EZY Ankle Grazers

Price: £24.90 | Buy now from Uniqlo

“Uniqlo EZY trousers. The back is elasticated. No ironing needed. They're the only trousers I wear to work.”

“My Uniqlo EZY ankle grazers arrived today. OMG! So comfortable and smart.”

“Look at the Uniqlo EZY trousers. Since they're elastic waist they are very forgiving and comfortable!”

Ever-popular on Mumsnet, Uniqlo's EZY Trousers are particularly ideal for spring and summer work wardrobes, in part thanks to the beautiful pastel colour palette. There are six to choose from including light purple, light grey and off-white.

They're extra comfy thanks to the two-way stretch in the material and a discreet elasticated waistband, and are straight-leg so they look smart and fit well too.

Plus, the centre crease is made with resin processing so it should cut down, or even cut out your ironing time.

8. Hush Amie Joggers

Price: £49.50 | Buy now from Hush

“Hush Amie joggers – I’m 5'4” and a size 16, and I love these. Smart enough for work with brogues or heeled boots but nice with trainers too. I have them in black and plan to order the blue soon."

“They’re fab. I’ve worn them all over: shops, school and even flying long-haul. Sizing is massive though, I’m 5'8” and a size 10 and had to get XS. They’re just long enough too."

If you don't quite get on with the Hush Harems, the Amie Joggers are another great choice for comfort – and look just about smart enough for work too.

Simply dress them up with your brogues and a blazer for the office, then pair them with trainers and a baggy jumper for the weekend.

They're 47% cotton, 47% modal and 6% elastane, meaning they're comfy and breathable, and they also have a flattering tapered leg shape.

Related: The best leggings and jeggings to buy this year.

9. find. Women’s Wide Leg Trousers

Price: £27 | Buy now from Amazon

Whether you're already a wide-leg trouser convert or still need some convincing, these Palazzo trousers are a great option. The Amazon brand ‘find.’ may look like a typo, but they offer affordable trousers that Mumsnet users love.

The stylish navy is the perfect addition to your wardrobe and the high-waisted, wide-legged style is both flattering and comfortable.

10. M&S Mia Slim Jersey Ankle Grazer Trousers

Price: £35 | Buy now from M&S

“I got two pairs of the M&S trousers. I really like them – they're very flattering.”

Ideal for work or play – especially if jeans aren't really you – these M&S ankle grazers are available in a size 6 to 24, and come in two colours and three different leg lengths to help you find your perfect pair.

Made from sustainable cotton with a bit of stretch for a comfy, breathable fit –they look great with trainers or heels and are super comfortable to boot.

The best plus-size trousers

11. Yours Pull-On Ribbed Bootcut Trousers

Price: £18.99 | Buy now from Amazon

“I've recently bought these as I’m doing a lot of travelling for work, and need something comfy enough to sit on a train for a few hours and still look smart at the other end.”

These ribbed trousers are designed for sizes 16 to 36 and will take you from your desk chair to an evening at the pub – just swap your brogues for a pair of heeled boots if you want to add some glam.

There are also two leg lengths – 30 or 32 inches – giving you the perfect fit no matter what height you are. Plus, who doesn't love an elasticated waist?

12. Magisculpt Straight Leg Trousers

Price: £35 | Buy now from Simply Be

“On someone's recommendation on Mumsnet, I have two pairs of these (in navy and black) and they are really lovely. You probably need to order a size down.”

Boasting sizes up to 32, Simply Be are a great place to find stylish and affordable plus-size trousers.

These trews have so many hidden extras like a Magisculpt panel insert and a secret stretch waistband. They're designed to keep you looking streamlined but, most importantly, feeling as comfortable as possible.

Users say they fit well but come up large so you might need to size down.

Related: The best women's trainers for comfort and style.

13. Navabi Feather Print Wide Leg Trousers

Price: £110.90 | Buy now from Navabi

“Navabi has some lovely stuff. Graphic and modern, not pale and flowery.”

“Go through Navabi – pair some of their trousers with a big chunky necklace and a bright clutch.”

If you're plus-size, it can sometimes feel like the amount of clothing on offer to you is minimal at best – particularly when it comes to occasionwear.

Navabi has a whole host of trousers designed for plus-size women and the selection is filled to the brim with chic patterns and fashionable colours.

Perfect for occasions like weddings and barbecues during the warmer months, these wide-legged trousers are floaty and cool, and also have a side stripe that elongates the legs.

14. Boden Richmond Trousers

Price: From £70 | Buy now from Boden

“I'm short-legged and very curvy and they look great on me. Both 7/8 and full length are very forgiving, and they've kept shape after many washes!”

“I've just discovered Boden Richmond Trousers and they're so bloody comfy! They're actually super flattering on my three-month postpartum bum and chunky legs. And they're so pretty.”

“I agree with Boden Richmond. Very nicely cut and flattering. The fabric is nice and thick and not too stretchy.”

Mumsnetters have been fans of the Boden Richmond Trousers for years because of their classic fit, great quality and practical pockets.

They're re-invented in a new range of colours and patterns every season, so your wardrobe will just keep on growing. There are now 10 to choose from including Palm Leaf, French Navy Dot and Hazy Blue.

They’re also available in tall and petite fits, as well as full or 7/8 leg lengths.

Related: The best shoe racks and organisers to keep your trainers and boots neatly stored at home.

The best petite trousers

15. Roman Originals Cigarette Trousers

Price: £25 | Buy now from Amazon

“I bought a plain black pair of these and I have never had so many compliments!”

If you're a petite fit and not a fan of the cropped-trouser trend, the Roman Originals Cigarette Trousers may just be a more suitable length for you.

They're flattering and reasonably priced, and there are five colours to choose from including classic black, brown and grey. The stretch in the material is perfect for keeping you supported but not restricted too.

Which trousers are in fashion?

There are a number of different styles of trousers to choose from:

1. High-waisted trousers – great for pear shapes

2. Slim fit or skinny fit – the trousers fit tightly to the legs

3. Tapered or cigarette fit – trousers narrow as they get further down the leg

4. Ankle grazers – stop at the ankle

5. Cropped or capri pants – 3/4 the length of normal trousers

6. 7/8 trousers – 1/8 shorter than normal trousers

7. Joggers – originally exercise wear, but now a fashion staple

8. Palazzo or wide-legged trousers – flattering as they are high-waisted and very wide-legged

How do I choose the right trousers?

When considering which trousers are right for you, you should look at:

• Fit: There are a number of different styles (see above).

• Height: If you’re short, cropped trousers can give the illusion of longer legs. If you’re tall then look for brands that offer a longer length to avoid unintentional cropped trousers.

• Body shape: If you’re pear-shaped then high-waisted trousers can be flattering, while wide-legged trousers can look great if you’re apple-shaped.

• Material: Linen will need a lot of ironing, and trousers with Spandex can be comfortable as they offer stretch when you sit, stand and bend.

• Cost: Trousers can cost from just over £10 to several hundred so consider how many times you’ll wear them to see if they offer good value for money.

What length should women's trousers be?

The length of trousers depends on your height and the style of the trousers. Standard length is usually 32 inches long and designed for women who are around 5’4” to 5’7”.

Short length is usually 30 inches long and designed for women 4’11” to 5’3”. Long length is usually 34 inches long and designed for women who are 5’8” to around 6 foot tall.

Ankle grazers are designed to do exactly what they say – graze your ankles. 7/8 length are 1/8th shorter than a full-length style. They’re not as short as cropped trousers and can be a good option for shorter women to get full-length trousers if a brand doesn’t do a short length.

3/4 length trousers are known as cropped trousers or capri pants and usually stop midway between the knee and ankle depending on your height.

What are the best trousers for women?

Robell Slim Fit Stretch Trousers are the best workwear trousers. At around £50, they're good value as they wash and wear well. They are flattering and come in a range of colours too.

The best workwear trousers are Uniqlo EZY Ankle Grazers. There are lots of colours and lengths to choose from and they are designed to look smart with minimal to no ironing.

How we chose our recommendations

All of our recommendations for casual and work trousers came from Mumsnet users themselves. We searched the Mumsnet forums for posts about which trousers including petite, plus-size and budget-friendly, Mumsnetters rated.

Why you should trust us

We work hard to provide unbiased, independent advice you can trust. We do sometimes earn revenue through affiliate (click-to-buy) links in our articles. This helps us fund more helpful articles like this one.