Ask Belle: Mid-Price Winter-Weight Trousers
Oct 23, 2014
Hi Belle,
Typically – like you, a predictable patty in the winter with opaque tights with dresses/ skirts. But thinking about venturing into pants more this season. I like these, but not their price point. Would prefer to be $150 (if the pair is quality) or below. Any ideas for camel colors or other go to trousers for work?
Thanks, Erica
It was so cold last year, I’m thinking about buying more trousers for this season as well. There comes a point where you have to ask if the skirt is worth the shivering. Here are a few suggestions for trousers in your price range:
Maxine Herringbone Trousers ($119)
My favorite winter trousers come in herringbone and tweed. They look great with sleek sweaters or silky blouses, and they are definitely warm. These trousers from Dillard’s are a good place to start. If you like a really wide pant, these tweed palazzo pants from Mango are for you. These Liz Claiborne trousers are an affordable option.
I only found one pair of trousers in a camel color that were affordable and heavier weight, these WHBM trousers. (Don’t worry, the gold belt is removable.) If it’s just the color you’re after, I also found these Jones New York straight leg trousers and these bootcut trousers from The Limited.
Another question that readers ask a lot is where to find trousers that are fully-lined. The Pendleton trousers in basic black are lined, as are these black Jones New York trousers. WHBM also lines some of their pants, including these chic charcoal trousers.
Lastly, if you’re looking to spend a bit on a good quality trouser, Lafayette 148 has the best selection of basics.
I just purchased 2 pairs of the Jackson suit pants from Banana, and I love them. They are fully lined and seem to be good quality. I’m short, with fuller thighs and hips, so I always have a hard time finding pants that are flattering. After a quick hemming (even the shorts were way too long), these are quickly becoming staples in my cold weather closet. And the best part – they aren’t excluded from Banana’s constant sales, so I got them at 40% off.
I’ve had good luck at Banana Republic factory finding fully-lined wool pants. You have to look for them among the other, cheaper quality pants, but they are there and are great. I am current wearing my black pair, and it’s lasted for a few years and looks brand new.
I love the Lafayette pants, but their price point!!! I only invest in them when they are on Nordstrom sale of some kind. Instead, have really enjoyed the alternative of the lined pants or heavy weave pants offered by Banana Republic.
Not fully lined, but I absolutely love the Modern Bootcut Pants from Gap’s premium line. You can pick them up on sale for a pittance. They are machine washable, they don’t shrink, they last forever, and they drape beautifully. I just barely replaced my favorite black and grey trousers after five years of hard use (and passed them down to my sister who will get several more years of wear).
For what it’s worth, I have a pretty straight figure, with a bit more lovin’ squishiness around my upper thigh. These hang beautifully.
I have several of the Gaps premium line and over the years the fabric is hit or miss. But for the price – I love them. Also buy the Lafayette too – more expensive but quite nice. I will check into the other suggestions here.