How much would you spend on a really good pair of trousers?

[MaggieFS]

I've spent lockdown and the mat leave loafing about and I am about to return to work. My natural inclination is always to spend very little so most trousers have come from M&S. but I don't think they do me any favours and bag at the knees. I've recently lost 3 stone and whilst I'm still a size 14, want to feel good about myself and how I look. I can afford to spend more.

So if I want a decent pair of trousers, which will be well tailored, flattering and hold their shape, how much do I need to be prepared to spend?

Any brands you would recommend?

I might spend £100 or a little more for a great pair. Brora, or Jigsaw etc.

Jigsaw Paris trousers are well made, wool blend, bit of stretch, if you want an ankle grazer type style. I went out with a budget to get some back to work gear and ended up only buying those and a top. I would recommend Jigsaw for trousers generally tbh.

Wyse London?

Some of the pricier brands in John Lewis in the sale.

I agree about £100-£120.

Not Wyse London! I meant Winser London.

I'm trying to make some trousers at the moment. It's bloody hard and it's given me fresh respect. I prioritise them over a skirt or top - in fact I'll spend more on trousers than practically any other clothing other than a coat. The most I've ever paid was £250 for some sale Margaret Howell. trousers but I'd saved up and had birthday money - I can't afford to do that often.

Mostly I spend between £50 and £100 which buys me second hand Margaret Howell and Joseph, Toast in the sales and Cos new. I've had second hand Jigsaw trousers that were pretty good too but I don't know if they are still.

If my budget's under around £50 and I want new, I look at Uniqlo, Marks and Spencer, occasionally H&M. I think you can find some decent stuff there but it's very hit and miss and I'm not great at judging it before I've worn and washed it. I find Uniqlo maddeningly inconsistent - I've had things from them that were great but then bought a second and it's been shit.

I have some wide leg Max Mara trousers bought in the sale for £120 they are excellent quality. I used to buy COS but the quality isn't as good as it was a few years ago. J Crew also do decent wool trousers. I have cotton Margaret Howell MHL trousers which are a couple of years old and still look new.

The Jigsaw Paris are very nice, but they are dry clean only. I'm not a great trouser wearer but I have a couple of pairs of Boden Richmond. M

If you want new then I'd be prepared to spend £150 on work trousers ( but I no longer work) if they would be worn 2-3 times a week. Look at Boden, reiss, lk bennett, Wyse London, me +m. But if you can get to a John Lewis to try on it would be better and they can help you find.

The Jigsaw Paris are very nice, but they are dry clean only.
I have to say mine go in a delicate wash (when they need it) - although need to be pressed carefully, in case you are one of the anti-ironers.

Reiss Joanne trousers are another good quality slim trouser style. They are a sort of technical type tightly woven fabric that keeps its shape.