In a fashion landscape dominated by Tik Tok-trends and blink-and-you’ll-miss-them moments, the best work pants for women aren’t necessarily the most exciting, but the most reliable. A great pair of office-appropriate trousers doesn’t need to reinvent the wheel—it just needs to support you for the job of dressing well. Worn with a crisp button-down, an oversized knit, or an easy jacket, the right trousers are the backbone of any working wardrobe. Buy them once, wear them on repeat.
Vogue’s Favorite Work Pants:
That kind of dependability can feel underrated, but it’s precisely what makes these styles timeless. Think classic straight-leg black trousers from stalwarts like Nili Lotan and Theory, or the slouchy wide-leg silhouettes that brands like Toteme have perfected. Then there are the modern icons: The Row’s Gala pull-on pants, whose elegant ease has turned them into a wardrobe hero, and High Sport’s cult-favorite kick flares.
There are also the softly tailored gray wool styles by Khaite and Bottega Veneta, khaki trousers that strike the balance between utilitarian and chic, winter-white trousers that feel unexpectedly fresh, and barrel-leg cuts for the more adventurous. These are the work pants worth building a wardrobe around. Shop our favorites here.
The Classic Black Trouser
You can never go wrong with a black trouser. Tapered or with a slight flare, these timeless styles are made to be worn on repeat. Theory, Vince and Nili Lotan make some of our favorites.
The Pull-On Pant
Make an investment in pull-on pants, which allow for easy (and comfortable!) everyday chic. There’s a reason that The Row’s Gala pants have developed a cult-following. A simple kitten heel and cashmere sweater is all you need to elevate these for your 9-5.
The Khaki
Once relegated to the after-school set, wide-leg or pleated khakis have earned style credibility over the years. Wear yours with a classic button-down and loafers for a preppy-meets-polished look.
The Wide-Leg
Another forever favorite, a great wide-leg trouser will live in your wardrobe for seasons to come. Toteme’s signature style strikes the balance between elegance and easy slouch. We like these offset by simple Mary Jane flats and a relaxed cashmere polo.
The Gray Wool
Gray wool trousers are an ultra-refined (not to mention warm!) option for winter. We especially love them as a part of a monochromatic look.
The Kick Flare
Fashion girls can’t get enough of kick flares, and for good reason. The easy to wear with flats (or boots), and in a bold color, will add an ounce of effortless cool to your work ‘fit.
The White Pant
White trousers are a surprisingly versatile investment, for winter white dressing and for anchoring summer work ensembles. Look for a mid-weight fabric that can be worn through the seasons.
The Barrel-Leg
For more adventurous dressers (or open-minded workplaces), barrel-leg trousers are a great way to shake things up. The flattering shape looks great with cropped jackets, flats, and boots.
