Meet the Other Phone. A phone that grows with your child.

Meet the Other Phone.
A phone that grows with your child.

Buy now

Please or to access all these features

Style and beauty

Looking for style advice? Chat all about it here. For the latest discounts on fashion and beauty, sign up for Mumsnet Moneysaver emails.

Smart/Casual trousers - size 16

11 replies

Walkingtheplank · 26/03/2023 20:41

I'm running out of non-work trousers. My go-to cords now have a random hole in them.

I hate buying trousers - or rather trying trousers that fit. I'm a size 16, 5'7". I always seem to struggle to find the right length - either way too short or too long. My crotch/waist/hip ratio seems to not be catered for.

I'd probably like some cords/chinos other smartish trousers but cant face the idea of trying many pairs to come come home empty handed.

Any top tips?

OP posts:
IbizaToTheNorfolkBroads · 26/03/2023 21:25

Watching with interest! You're the same height and size as me, and I have this problem. I got some fantastic black barrel leg moleskins from Plumo just before Christmas, but they were very spendy even in the sale. Like £80 or something.

ColdinNovember · 26/03/2023 21:30

Also same size and height and following for ideas

Walkingtheplank · 26/03/2023 21:47

Glad I'm not alone. Currently trying to work out what I like on line before going shopping. Although I'm sure they won't have my size in-store. I've amazed my daughter twice now going shopping with her and not finding any item to even try in my size!

OP posts:
Quinque · 27/03/2023 06:06

M&S Sienna cord trousers are worth looking at. They come in a range of colours. I bought some last autumn, but they're still in stock now. They're very comfortable and they've washed well. The sizes aren't brilliantly standardised, it's worth trying several of the same size to find a good fit.
I'm looking for some summer weight chinos now so I hope someone recommends some on this thread.

BarbaraofSeville · 27/03/2023 07:29

I'm a similar size and height to you and possibly a similar shape - curvy/pear shape?

I got some chino style ones from M&S last autumn but I think they're part of the permanent range.

They're ankle grazer length which I always think they look like they're too short but I realise that's current style. They look fine with ankle boots or trainers and can be styled casual or fairly smart depending on top/shoes.

But I feel your pain, it's just like all clothes are the wrong size and shape for us. I'd say wear more dresses but I think I'm a size 10 shoulders, 14 bust, 12 waist and 16 hips in anything remotely fitted so that's not easy either.

RampantIvy · 27/03/2023 09:01

I bought those chinos @BarbaraofSeville the other week. I don't do ankle grazers at this time of year as it is too chilly. I am waiting for the weather to warm up.

IbizaToTheNorfolkBroads · 27/03/2023 16:06

Walkingtheplank · 26/03/2023 21:47

Glad I'm not alone. Currently trying to work out what I like on line before going shopping. Although I'm sure they won't have my size in-store. I've amazed my daughter twice now going shopping with her and not finding any item to even try in my size!

Try having size 9 feet too!
I feel like a complete heffalump if I go shopping with my sister!
I can't get M&S chinos round my calf muscles!

Walkingtheplank · 31/03/2023 08:50

Thank you to those who replied.
I've taken the day off work today to go shopping.
Not looking forward to it.
I also need shoes too so that will be fun (not).

OP posts:
FinallyHere · 31/03/2023 12:59

I've found the style and fit guide for the trousers sold here to be pretty reliable. Also very easy returns so I order heaps and always find something that works

https://www.belladinotte.com

Walkingtheplank · 31/03/2023 18:08

So have been on my shopping trip. Actually found size 16s on the rails.

M&S proved to be a waste of time. I'm probably an apple shaped. Not much of a bum, a bit of a tum. M&S trousers seem now to be equal size front and back so the bum and waist fitted OK but there was a huge excess of extra fabric at the front where my torso meets my legs and over the upper thighs. I tried on c.8 pairs, all oddly shaped and totally unflattering.

I ended up spending quite a bit more than planned buying 2 pairs from Mint Velvet and 1 pair from Barbour. They fitted so nicely and were flattering. I had to have a word with myself that I was worth the extra expense - and I'll get much more wear of them if the fit nicely.

OP posts:
New posts on this thread. Refresh page
Swipe left for the next trending thread