Alternative to the work black pants?

[Junestepe]

I'm in a very deep style rut for workwear. I have some very pretty and stylish work tops and knits think sezane, whistles, COS etc. However I only have the dreaded work black pants. As a result every single outfit combo looks dated. Being a shortie I feel my only option is the black cigarette pants. Help, this has been work look for the last 18 years. What do I wear on the bottom that is not black pants?? How do I look more contemporary? Also at 5 '2 the flowy, baggy pants does not work for my shape. Help please my fashionable Mumsnetters?

I am also a cigarette pant wearer, but have various ones, not just black, for work. My favourite are black with a white check, and I also have grey Prince of Wales check, tartan (bit of a theme here, I know!), and navy/white stripe. All look good with a plain jumper. Mine are Zara jogger back ones

Not sure if they still do them but this is the style Ebay
I got most of mine on Vinted

I really like a long black ribbed skirt with black tights and boots or loafers or pumps depending. I have wool for winder and heavy cotton rib for spri/autumn

@Junestepe,you sound like the long ago poster who exclaimed But what do I wear if I don’t wear leggings?!

Surely the shops from which you buy your tops also sell trousers in other colours, and skirts, and dresses? Has it really never occurred to you to try them?

BTW wide, or even flowy trousers suit everyone. I don’t think one can enjoy getting dressed much without being a little more open minded!

I am the same height as you, size 8 from the waist up, size 10 from the waist down. I wear low-rise wide-leg pants from hollister and Abercrombie with chunky boots/shoes. I have them in black, navy, two different shades of grey, burgundy, brown, green, pinstripe...

Start with the shoes actually.

Buy two pairs of more up-to-date shoes that you really like. Probably a pair of Chelsea boots, and a pair of loafers.

Then experiment with trousers. look to buy 3-4 pairs, not just one ‘these are not my black trousers!’ Pair!

You then may need tops. Again I’d suggest 4-5 that mix and match with the trousers.

Basically you’re going to give yourself a whole new silhouette that may be tricky to get used to. So what if it makes you feel a bit short or whatever, you do know that short people look short whatever they wear?!

Wear what you love with a smile and you’ll always look fab.

I read with interest and have recently ventured into wide leg trousers and quite like them as long as I get a petite fitting
However would appreciate shoe advice. Out office ranges from totally casual to a bit more smart casual and I wear with a smart white trainer you can hardly see today but would prefer a shoe
What shoes are we wearing if wearing wide legs for the office ?

I wear different versions of this type of boot: https://aldoshoes.co.uk/products/moimas-black-13804527