Six pairs of trousers to try instead of jeans

Now, you all know I have a deep love for denim. I’d say I wear jeans at LEAST four days out of every seven, so I am not for one second suggesting you ditch the denim, but it’s always good to have a change and, in the summer, a nice, lighter pair of trousers works a treat. I use that ‘summer’ word lightly, even though we actually seem to be having a brief one now in the south (cut to next week being autumn again).

The six pairs of trousers I have chosen this week will all work right now, but they will also carry you safely through into the autumn, and seeing as I’ve basically given up thinking about buying new summer clothes, this is what I’m looking for right now, so let’s get started…

KEEP IT KHAKI

I have always maintained that everyone needs a good pair of khaki trousers in their wardrobe. In fact, khaki as a whole is a fantastic neutral that goes with everything. This is a failsafe look I go for when I can’t be bothered to really think about what to wear. Khaki, denim and stripes. Works every time. Use the ‘sandwich’ styling trick with your accessories to tie it all in together nicely.

PASTEL PARADISE

Ok, granted, these may not take you too far into the cooler months but, that said, there’s no reason why you can’t pair pastels with either navy or black when white and cream feel too summer-like. I wore almost this exact outfit last week and I felt good. Until an un-forecast downpour literally rained on my parade. The moral of that story is, when in the UK, ALWAYS carry an umbrella about your person.

BLACK LINEN LOVE

Much like the khakis, a good pair of black linen trousers for the summer months is an absolute wardrobe staple. I always wear mine on the plane when I go on holiday, and they are also smart enough for office or evening wear. It’s all about the accessories, and a good belt will serve you very well in this department. I know this Loewe one is undoubtedly at the top end in terms of price, but it’s basically 2‑for‑1 as it’s reversible, and it has definitely been one of my best buys this year. I wear a size 85, which is equivalent to size 10. I think it’s still in stock at Liberty.

ROCKING THE RUST

Here’s a colour that will, without fail, work just as well in the autumn months. Not quite orange, not quite brown, works perfectly with your classic white shirt or with a simple sweatshirt. Finisterre make really good trousers in timeless styles, and they’re very flattering too. Apparently we aren’t allowed to say things are flattering anymore, but how else can you praise something that looks good on most bodies?

NOTHING BUT NAVY

Another brand that makes really good trousers is Toast. They aren’t cheap, but they also don’t change their designs very often – they just make the same signature shapes in different colours and fabrics each season, so you know if you invest in a pair that they are still going to be stylish for years to come. Also, they do very good sales.

NICE NEUTRALS

We end with the quintessential chinos. For a more modern take, look for extra details like pleats, interesting belt loops or a wider, tapered style. This pair from COS tick all my boxes, and would work perfectly with your white T‑shirt and denim jacket. Another summer look that will never let you down.

There will be a brief pause in Sunday blog posts next week as I’m taking the boys for a long weekend in Lisbon. The Bees are playing a friendly against Benfica so we thought we’d make a little holiday of it. I will report back in 2 weeks’ time. If you have any Lisbon recommendations, send them over.

K x

WearsMyMoney

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