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.

rsz_screen_shot_2014-08-24_at_103424_pm

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.

 

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  1. YouSaucyMinx says:

    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.

  2. Christina says:

    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

  3. Amy says:

    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!

  4. Target sells an amazing slim/skinny trouser under the Mossimo line. Some are lined, even. They are so fantastic, I own like 6 colors.

  5. SMS says:

    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

  6. Sarah says:

    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.

  7. Orla says:

    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.

  8. Julia S. says:

    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!

  9. Para says:

    Another vote for Sloan, all I’ve reached for the past 2 years!

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