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The best work trousers to wear this summer

Our favourite styles will make you feel pulled together while keeping you comfortable

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best work trousers
Good Housekeeping UK

A reliable and elegant pair of work trousers is an essential part of every woman's office workwear wardrobe - but it is not easy to find.

The best work trousers will make you feel pulled together while keeping you comfortable throughout your 9-to-5 workday and should last you a few seasons, at least.

Although every office's dress code is different, the good news is dressing for work has become increasingly casual over the years, meaning we are now spoilt for choice when it comes to trousers' styles, fabrics and silhouettes.

During the summer months, we tend to favour breathable fabrics like linen and cotton as well as breezy silhouettes that can be easily dressed up or down. Plus, work trousers don't need to be stuffy, so you can look beyond basic black and play around with colour and shapes.

Our round-up below include a few options to suit every budget and style, from tapered to wide-leg trousers, from the likes of M&S, Boden and ME+EM amongst others.

Still in need of inspiration? GH's fashion director also shared where she likes to shop for all the best trouser styles.

1

M&S Linen Rich Wide Leg Cropped Trousers

Linen Rich Wide Leg Cropped Trousers

Brighten up your summer workwear wardrobe with these high-waisted trousers. Equipped with an elasticated band for comfort and designed in a flattering cropped wide-leg fit, they're perfect for the office or working from home days. We'll be dressing these up with a crisp white shirt and elegant mules.

2

Phase Eight Addison Pleat Front Trousers

Addison Pleat Front Trousers

Made from breezy linen, these trousers have a smart feel thanks to the structured soft pleats at the front. Take inspiration from the brand and style these with a statement clutch and belt.

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3

Boden Hampstead Linen Trousers

Hampstead Linen Trousers

Available in seven different shades, these linen trousers are a chic and timeless staple you'll be able to wear season after season.

4

Mint Velvet Yellow Cotton Cargo Trousers

Yellow Cotton Cargo Trousers

Utility-inspired pieces have been all over the catwalk this year and these trousers are a great way to incorporate the trend into your wardrobe. They can easily be dressed up for the office (just add a pretty touch with a broderie anglaise top) or down for your days off.

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5

M&S Linen Rich Tapered Trousers

Linen Rich Tapered Trousers

Black trousers remain a workwear wardrobe staple and if you're looking for a new pair, you can always trust M&S to deliver. These trousers have a flattering fit, are lightweight and available in six colours. Plus, their high waistband is elasticated for extra comfort - what more could you ask for?

6

ME+EM Linen-Blend Pleated Wide-Leg Pant

Linen-Blend Pleated Wide-Leg Pant

ME+EM is one of our favourite labels when it comes to luxurious investment pieces that will stand the test of time and these trousers are no exception. We can't get enough of their flattering high-rise silhouette and functional finish.

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7

MANGO Straight striped trousers

Straight striped trousers

Made from a cotton and linen mix, these Mango trousers have a summery feel thanks to their striped print.

8

Jigsaw Linen Check Palazzo Trouser

Linen Check Palazzo Trouser
Now 40% Off

These ankle-cropped trousers feature a checked print and are super versatile. Wear them with sandals and a white tee on your days off or heeled mules for the office.

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9

Uniqlo Wide Chino Trousers

Wide Chino Trousers

We love Uniqlo for its sleek and chic minimalist styles as well as its affordable prices. These trousers are stretched at the waist for comfort and feature a flattering wide-leg fit. They're also available in five other colours.

10

Sister Jane Lucky Embroidered Trousers

Lucky Embroidered Trousers

If you're after something a little more playful, we recommend you check Sister Jane's latest collection. These trousers are guaranteed to elevate your summer wardrobe thanks to their cream colour and tailored structure but what really makes them special is the pretty embroidery featured on its turned-up hem. They're already on our wishlist for summer.

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11

Reiss Colourblock linen wide leg trousers

Colourblock linen wide leg trousers

Chic and cool thanks to their slouchy shape and colour block detail, you can smarten these trousers with a blazer and tonal blouse or keep it casual with a simple scoop neck vest.

12

Sezane Austin Trousers

Austin Trousers

We trust Sézane when it comes to smart trousers with French chic. Available in black and navy, we love the high-waisted cut and bow detail on this pair.

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