Ask Belle: Slim-Fitting Trousers
Aug 25, 2014
Hi Belle,
After trying many different styles of trousers for work, I keep coming back to a “skinny” pant, but I have such a hard time finding professional (read: not jeans) skinny pants that are full length and not ankle length. I’ve been able to put off finding a pair since it’s summer, but with fall approaching I’m looking to expand my options. Can you recommend a pair of full-length skinny trousers? I’d love a pair under $80.
Thanks! Robin
It is difficult to find slim-fitting pants that are longer than ankle length. I find the slightly longer ones to be more professional. It’s just a couple of inches of fabric, but it makes a difference.
Moto LOFT Bi-Stretch Skinny Pants ($70)
I recently purchased these. I bought them one size bigger to get a flattering rear view, then I had the pockets sewn shut and the legs taken in a bit. The alteration was $35 and now they fit like a glove.
These Banana Republic Sloan pants look ankle-length on the model, but I tried them on in the store, and they were a bit longer. so they’re worth a shot. The NY&Co. Crosby Street pant is also a good option, esp. at $29. WHBM also has a ponte pant that has a slim-fitting leg that doesn’t look too tight.
Petite? The LOFT and BR pants above come in your size. Plus-size? These Jones New York pants are a good place to start. I also like these ankle-length pants from Land’s End.
NYDJ also makes great slim or skinny dress pants (not jeans or leggings) for regular and plus sizes. I have a fantastic ponte knit pair that are my go-to: they never wrinkle, they’re super comfy, and can be dressed up or down.
Recently bought these in black and they’re now my favorite work pants. Reviews say they stretch out but I took my regular size and put them in the dryer for 10 min and now they fit perfectly. https://www.jcrew.com/ca/womens_category/pants/Straight/PRD~A1209/A1209.jsp?Nbrd=J&Nloc=en_CA&Nrpp=48&Npge=1&Ntrm=bristol&isSaleItem=true&color_name=DUSTY%20DUNE&isFromSearch=true&isNewSearch=true&hash=row1
I, too, have a penchant for dressy, skinny trousers at work. When I found that I wasn’t gravitating toward some of my wider-legged or boot-cut pairs anymore, I had my tailor alter them to a “slim leg” and now I love them all over again!
Target sells an amazing slim/skinny trouser under the Mossimo line. Some are lined, even. They are so fantastic, I own like 6 colors.
I have had really good luck with the Gap Ultra Skinny Premium Pants (in both ankle and regular length). I own three pairs, because when I find something that is high quality and fits well and Gap prices, I stock up. Here they are: https://www.gap.com/browse/product.do?cid=1007267&vid=1&pid=349597002
I wear Express’ Columnist and Editor in the slim leg style. The color selection is limited, but they’re washable!
https://www.express.com/clothing/studio+stretch+slim+leg+columnist+pant/pro/7247339/cat1040089
https://www.express.com/clothing/studio+stretch+wide+waistband+slim+editor+pant/pro/9197920/cat2008
I HIGHLY recommend the BR Sloan pants. I am 5’4″ and the regular length are a bit long on me so I got the short and they’re the perfect length for ankle pants on me. So if you’re around my height, get the regular size for full-length pants. I cannot say enough about these pants, I have three pairs and wear them all the time.
Zara have great options, if the cotton choices are unflattering try their scuba material in a darker colour. I have received numerous compliments on my two-tone navy and black skinny trousers in scuba material at work.
I’m looking for slim black pants – but with a side zip and some stretch (and I agree with Belle – longer is better for the office). I have a pair that have no stretch and I’m dying to replace them. Any ideas? Ideally completely smooth, no pockets, or at least no visible pockets. Audrey Hepburn-esque!
Another vote for Sloan, all I’ve reached for the past 2 years!