We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation. The 21 Best Work Pants Fashion People Actually Wear on Repeat Because why can't the office also be a fashion show? By Irene Richardson Irene Richardson Irene Richardson is an associate editor for InStyle. She primarily focuses on InStyle's fashion library, where she covers trends and must-have wardrobe finds. Irene personally tests countless fashion and beauty products to bring readers honest, informed recommendations, including gems worth the splurge. InStyle's editorial guidelines Updated on May 28, 2026 @ 12:40PM In This Article View All In This Article Top Picks Reviews Our Testing Process Expert Picks What to Keep in Mind Your Questions, Answered Why Shop With Us Credit: InStyle Best Overall: We chose the Aritzia Effortless Pant as our top pick with its tailored, straight-leg fit and breathable linen fabric suitable for all commutes. Affordable & Adjustable: For a pair of work pants available in a wide size range, an adjustable waistband, and a budget-friendly price, opt for the Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Taylor Wide-Leg Trouser Pants. A Trendy Twist: The Sézane Marino Trousers are a solid, wide-leg choice that still offers a tailored fit with stylish details. Although it's been many years since my days as an intern, I still find myself searching for the best work pants as I did when I pored over my college closet, looking for professional attire. While some office dress codes permit jeans or even nice leggings, the best work pants for women can feel just as comfortable as those options and look more polished. Linda Cui Zhang, associate fashion director at Nordstrom, suggests pants with “natural fibers like wool and linen, which add breathability and wear well for long days.” Beyond this, “I often try on the next size up to accommodate a tuck or option to wear lower on the hip,” she says. We shouldn’t drop our personalities at the door when choosing workwear, either. As office-style clothing worn outside the office remains fashionable, work pants are now versatile enough to wear after 5 p.m. I’ve spotted Hailey Bieber in low-rise black trousers at dinner in Los Angeles and NYC. Designers have shown skinny, straight-leg trousers and pleated pants in recent collections. With this in mind, I tested the best work pants for women that I’d wear both on and off the clock. Top Picks Best Work Pants Overall: Aritzia The Effortless Pant at Aritzia.com $168 Jump to Review Best Affordable Work Pants: Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Taylor Wide-Leg Trouser Pants at Old Navy $50 Jump to Review Best Wide-Leg Work Pants: Sézane Marino Trousers at Sezane.com $180 Jump to Review Most Comfortable Work Pants: Citizens of Humanity Velha Trouser at Citizensofhumanity.com Jump to Review Best Slim-Fit Work Pants: SALE Reformation Vida Low-Rise Pant at Shopbop.com $198 $119 Jump to Review Best Work Pants for Hot Weather : SALE Vince Ticking Stripe Linen-Cotton Low-Rise Crop Flare Trouser at Vince.com $348 $244 Jump to Review Best Cropped Work Pants: Theory 5-Pocket Kick Pant at Theory.com Jump to Review Best Trendy Work Pants: Tuckernuck Black Ponte Ashford Pants at Tnuck.com Jump to Review Best Stretchy Work Pants: Quince Ultra Stretch Pointe Trouser at Quince $45 Jump to Review Best Work Pants Overall Aritzia Effortless Pant Credit: Aritzia $168 at Aritzia.com Why We Love It: These women’s work pants design offers a little bit of everything, all in the best way. The Aritzia Effortless Pant has the tailored, straight-leg fit you want from professional work pants. However, the lightweight Tencel lyocell and linen fabric give them a relaxed, slightly drapey fit that’s very comfortable for sitting all day. Additionally, the breathable fabric keeps you cool during your commute. Despite its airy feel, I also appreciated the fabric’s thickness, which gave the pants a more expensive appearance. I’m impressed with how the pants didn’t wrinkle, either—a significant win considering I arrive at work after a very cramped subway ride and a 15-minute walk. Who It’s For: Available in various colors and fabrics, including standard, short, and tall sizes, it’s easy for anyone to find the perfect work pants here. Its design features traditional elements, such as front pleats and a high waist, that won’t fall out of style. Still, the overall look is modern, especially when paired with one of the trendier, limited-edition colors. Stock up on several pairs and don’t worry about looking dated a few seasons from now. Worth Noting: Although the pants fit my waist perfectly, the extra fabric around the zipper area causes them to bunch slightly when I sit down. It didn’t bother me, but everyone may not love the look. Size: 0–12 short, regular, and tall; 12–16 plus | Material: Tencel lyocell, linen InStyle Old Navy High-Waisted Pixie Flare Pants $50 $35 at Old Navy Gap 365 Low-Rise Pleated Wide-Leg Trousers $90 $40 at Gap Best Affordable Work Pants Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Taylor Wide-Leg Trouser Pants Credit: Old Navy $50 $48 at Old Navy Why We Love It: A good pair of work pants doesn't have to cost an arm and a leg. These Old Navy trousers are available in a wide size range and are constructed with a stitched-in pleat, so they'll look buttoned up even if you skip the iron. The ultra-wide leg keeps them from looking stuffy, and will pair beautifully with your kitten heels and blouses just as well as they will your work sneakers and basic tops. Who It's For: High-rise lovers of nearly any shape or size can appreciate these stylish and affordable work pants. They also feature an adjustable waistband, so you don't have to worry about a tight fit after lunch. Worth Noting: The fabric may pill, so we'd suggest air drying to keep your pants looking fresh. Size: 00–30 regular; 2–18 tall; 00–18 petite | Material: Polyester, viscose, rayon Best Wide-Leg Work Pants Sézane Marino Trousers Credit: Sézane $180 at Sezane.com Why We Love It: Some wide-leg pants can have a noticeably exaggerated flare, too trendy for office attire. However, the Marino Trousers by French clothing brand Sézane open up just enough at the bottom to complement the stylish cut. I gravitated toward these wide-leg trousers because they offer an exciting twist—a slightly nautical one. A classic high-rise and straight-leg design maintains the integrity of modern work pants, while details like officer buttons and tailored fit add a stylish touch. I also really appreciate the hidden side zipper, which makes the slimmer-fitting pants easy to put on and creates a seamless look in the front. Who It’s For: Shopping for work pants sounds like the least exciting wardrobe essential, especially if you’re in an office environment with stricter dress codes. When your corporate wardrobe needs a fresh restock, these office-appropriate high-waisted work pants are more playful, kicking stale styles to the curb. Worth Noting: The Sézane Marino Trousers have a slimmer fit that hugs the body and elongates the legs, but may not be comfortable for prolonged sitting at work. I recommend sizing up if you’re between sizes. Size: 0–16 | Material: Recycled polyester, wool Credit: InStyle Credit: InStyle J. Crew Carolina Pant in Four Season Stretch $150 $95 at J. Crew Uniqlo Smart Wide Pants $50 at Uniqlo.com Most Comfortable Work Pants Citizens of Humanity Velha Trouser Credit: Citizens of Humanity View on Citizensofhumanity.com Why We Love It: Well before Hailey Bieber, Katie Holmes, and Dakota Johnson started incorporating pleated trousers into their street and red-carpet style, I had always loved the look, even in my casual wear. When I tried on the Citizens Velha trousers, I knew the brand answered my call for menswear-inspired, comfortable work pants that still felt feminine. The almost all-cotton construction is incredibly soft and keeps its shape for a refined fit. There’s a playfulness in its design, including details, such as large back pockets, wide legs, and a roomy fit, which help it stand out among racks of slim-fitting suit trousers. Who It’s For: These business casual work pants are the perfect entry pants if you’re leaning into wearing workwear as street style. The Velha Trousers master an effortless office vibe and are lightweight and versatile enough to wear year-round. Worth Noting: Since these pants have a baggier fit, you might feel more polished in a size down. To style them professionally, pair the comfortable work pants with a square-neck body suit or a tailored blouse, a skinny belt, and block heels. Size: 23–34 | Material: Cotton, flax Credit: InStyle Credit: InStyle “Balance is key. If you’re going for a looser pant, keep the top more structured or tucked to create definition and a cleaner, put-together look,” says Karen Phelps, creative director at Agolde and Citizens of Humanity. Quince Ultra Stretch Pointe Trouser $45 at Quince lululemon Daydrift High-Rise Wide-Leg Trouser $148 at Lululemon Best Slim-Fit Work Pants Reformation Vida Low-Rise Pant Credit: Reformation $198 $119 at Shopbop.com $198 at Saks Fifth Avenue $198 at Bloomingdales Why We Love It: If Gen Z designed a work-appropriate pair of pants, it would be the Reformation Vida Low-Rise Pants. I love how the brand artfully incorporates trendier elements, such as a low-rise that sits a hair below the belly button and wider legs. I’ll note that I’m 5 feet, 7 inches tall, and the length is perfect for pairing with small kitten heels. They didn’t drag, and I love how the fabric slightly pooled around my feet without hiding my footwear choices. That said, anyone shorter or those who prefer wearing ballet flats may need to visit a tailor or utilize Reformation’s hemming service. For traditionalists, brown or black dress pants are ideal, but I prefer the spicier animal print for slacks that can be worn on the weekend, too. Who It’s For: The best part about these work pants for women is that while they look tailored, they feel relaxed. Although I was skeptical about the low-rise fit at first, this design detail makes it easier to sit hunched at my desk for hours. For those like me who typically wear longer shirts to the office, such as white button-downs and tank tops, these are a great, versatile addition to have in your arsenal. Worth Noting: While it may be fine to wear these pants in offices that blast the AC, these aren’t the most breathable work pants I've tried. I wore them throughout the spring with no problems, but I started to feel stuffy waiting for my train to arrive on an 80-degree day. Size: 0–12 standard; 0–10 petite; 14–24 plus | Material: Naia Renew acetate, polyester InStyle Mango Straight Low-Rise Suit Pants $60 at Mango.com Banana Republic Mid-Rise Slim Bootcut Pant $140 $100 at Banana Republic Best Work Pants for Hot Weather Vince Ticking Stripe Linen-Cotton Low-Rise Crop Flare Trouser Credit: Vince $348 $244 at Vince.com Why We Love It: Wearing pants in the summer is typically a nonstarter for me: Most cooling fabrics, like linen, wrinkle after just two seconds sitting down, or aren’t true linen (think: polyester blends) that leave me overheated. While I initially chose the Vince Crop Flare trousers for their adorable bottom flare and summery pinstripe pattern, I was delighted to discover just how cool they kept me while running around outside. Plus, I sat, crouched, and walked around in them without seeing many wrinkles. Who It’s For: These pants are well worth an investment—the quality is superb, the tailored fit is very flattering and chic, and the fabric doesn’t wrinkle. The length is also cropped enough to make a fashion statement, but not so extreme that you’re entering capris territory. Easily switch up the look with any comfortable heel, sneaker, or sandal with these footwear-friendly pants. Worth Noting: While Vince offers comfortable work pants, they have no stretch and tend to run small, so I recommend ordering a few sizes to find your best fit. Size: 00–16 | Material: Linen, cotton “Pairing a sneaker with a wide-leg trouser, knit tee, and suede accessories, like a belt and bag, creates a polished ensemble for commuting to work,” Zhang says. Banana Republic Factory Wide-Leg High-Rise Linen Blend Pant $100 $50 at Banana Republic Factory Madewell Zoe Relaxed Straight-Leg Pants $118 at Nordstrom Best Cropped Work Pants Theory 5-Pocket Kick Pant Credit: Theory View on Theory.com Why We Love It: When done right, cropped pants have such a sophisticated and ageless look, reminiscent of Audrey Hepburn and Natalie Wood’s endearing pedal pusher outfits. Theory does the style justice, particularly with its construction. These Turkish cotton trousers are breathable and soft, and the fit drapes as beautifully as the fabric feels. With classic front slash pockets and a mid-rise, they’re one of the more traditional options on this list. However, Theory ditches past corporate attire’s heavy, stuffy fabric in favor of a cooling Turkish cotton blend. The result is a pant that effortlessly hangs off frames with enough tailoring to keep your look sharp. Who It’s For: If you love the look and feel of true slacks but seek something a bit more modern, the Theory kick pants are an excellent choice. The cropped length lends them a more contemporary look, easy to wear with flats. Worth Noting: Since the pants are cropped, we wish the brand offered petite and tall sizing options to avoid them looking awkward on shorter or taller frames. Size: 24–32 | Material: Cotton, nylon, elastane Credit: InStyle Credit: InStyle Gap High-Rise Double Knit Crop Kick Pants $80 $63 at Gap Gap Ponte Capris $50 $20 at Gapfactory.com Best Trendy Work Pants Tuckernuck Black Ponte Ashford Pants Credit: Tuckernuck View on Tnuck.com Why We Love It: Capri pants are trending, and while they may not be everyone's cup of tea (and often lean casual), cropped styles like these make it easy to lean into the trend. They're moderately stretchy, structured, and run true-to-size. Finish the outfit with your favorite summer sandal and a sleeveless top for a look that's professional and comfortable until happy hour and beyond. Who It's For: Anyone who loves a high-quality pant that allows for an extra breeze around the ankles and will add a trendy touch to their workwear will love this cropped style from Tuckernuck. Worth Noting: While the size range is wide compared to other styles, these pants only come in one inseam length. Size: XXS–XXXXL | Material: Rayon, nylon, spandex Best Stretchy Work Pants Quince Ultra Stretch Pointe Trouser Credit: Quince $45 at Quince Why We Love It: Quince does comfortable pants incredibly well, and these trousers are no exception. Without a permanent pleat, they're easy to style casually with your favorite T-shirt or tank, as well as for the office with your most comfortable work heels. This also helps them to lie flat across your midsection for a smoother appearance overall. Made with a four-way stretch fabric, they'll move with you as you sit, stand, and commute, but won't lose their shape throughout the day. Who It's For: Those who shy away from structured pants for fear of discomfort or who simply love to feel like they're wearing pajamas while dressing for their next promotion. Worth Noting: These pants are only available in one inseam, so they may be short on taller girls. Those on the petite side may prefer to hem them. Size: 0–16 | Material: Rayon, nylon, spandex Our Testing Process Whether you work in the office full-time or a hybrid setting, a great pair of pants is essential to carry you through the work week. I prioritized comfort and versatility when searching for the best work pants. Looking for lightweight fabrics I could wear comfortably all day, the best work pants also allowed me to breeze through my commute without getting overheated. Additionally, I chose pants that I'd wear outside the office, searching for styles that were contemporary yet not too trendy. Each pair on this list is versatile enough to change the style vibe with just a few adjustments. Expert Picks Our experts have great taste—shop their favorite work pants below. Khaite Walter Pant $1,380 at Khaite.com Vince Crop Leggings $328 $199 at Nordstrom Spanx Flare Pant $158 $105 at Nordstrom COS Column Linen Straight Leg Pants $169 at Cos.com What to Keep in Mind Style: When in doubt, “A sleek, knit pant is an ideal work solution. It’s a polished, versatile style that feels as comfortable as leggings,” says Zhang. If you’re exploring other options, Brooklyn-based fashion consultant Chantal Hughes recommends a mid-rise wool trouser with pockets, belt loops, and a hem that accommodates flats. Meanwhile, a classic cotton blend pair of pants that barely skims the ground can easily become your summer workhorse pants. In this case, Hughes recommends looking for a flat-front pant (no pleats), with belt loops, a zip closure, and a not-too-slim fit. Additionally, “A cuffed taper is a great update—it stacks nicely over footwear, adds dimension, and still feels intentional and fashion-forward because it adds detail to your whole ensemble,” explains Phelps. Fit: “Straight leg or slim leg trousers are timeless and versatile for almost any office,” says celebrity stylist Cherie Kilchrist. A baggier fit can also be a fun, trendy option when done right. However, depending on your work environment and proportions, you want to ensure they’re not overly baggy. “Making sure the waist is nipped in to balance out the overall menswear shape is key,” says Hughes. Rise: While low-rise work pants are popular right now, high-waisted pants remain an evergreen choice, offering easier styling opportunities. “High-waisted wide-leg trousers can be very chic with a fitted blouse or cropped jacket,” explains Kilchrist. Still, you can lean into low- and mid-rise work pants with the right styling, making up for the difference up top with a flowy blouse, a white button-down, or a longer, fitted T-shirt. “Low-rise loose fits or subtle curved legs offer a modern take on relaxed tailoring. When styled proportionally, these silhouettes absolutely work in a professional setting,” says Phelps. Design Details: Several consistent details are incorporated into all work pants designs, differentiating them from more casual options. As Zhang explains, “Tailoring details like pleats, pintucks, placed stripe and welt pockets bring an elegant design detail that makes pants feel more ‘dressed up’ for the office.” When choosing pleated work pants, Kilchrist suggests ones with “soft minimal pleats for a streamlined look,” explaining how “simple, clean lines without too many bulky pockets and flat front (rather than pleated) can feel a bit smoother around the stomach.” As for what not to wear, Phelps says to avoid holes and rips. “Think clean finishes, that are structured with minimal distressing and considered details,” she says. Your Questions, Answered How do you style work pants? Our experts all agree: You can never go wrong with a classic button-down shirt, low heels, and simple jewelry. “A crisp poplin shirt—try a light pink to refresh your palette—knit cropped pants, a slip-on flat, and a woven work bag make an easy, everyday outfit for the office,” says Zhang. Once you have this uniform down, start playing with proportions—such as wearing flats with cropped pants—and accessories. For example, “A sneaker can bring a sporty feel to your office outfit,” says Zhang. However, if you’re wearing sneakers, Kilchrist says, “Choose minimal, clean sneakers that complement your top’s color and opt out of big logos.” In addition to jewelry, Hughes reminds us that belts are an outfit’s underrated best friend. “Belts should not be underestimated—they are starting to feel and look more like jewelry,” she says. AYR The Deep End Shirt $165 at Ayr.com Dolce Vita Reyes Ballet Flat $135 $120 at Amazon Madewell Handwoven Leather Tote $198 at Nordstrom Kendra Scott Colette Hoop Earrings $70 $61 at Amazon What fabric is best for women's work pants? Linen pants are a go-to option to keep you cool during the summer; however, the fabric is prone to wrinkling once you reach your desk. “If you need a wrinkle-free option, a hint of stretch enhances all-day wear and minimizes wrinkles,” says Zhang. Denim blends are another option to wear in warmer months. “Lightweight rinsed denim blended with cotton fabrics with a bit of stretch are ideal—they breathe, travel well, and hold their shape,” says Phelps. When it’s not extremely warm outside, Hughes will almost always choose wool or a wool blend. “Wool fabrics will lie nicely on the body and can function for most of the year,” she explains. After you’ve explored cotton and wool options, 100 percent silk is another fantastic choice, albeit a little pricier. “Pull-on silk pants are surprisingly versatile, and can take you from work to dinner easily,” says Hughes. What are the most comfortable women's work pants for all-day wear? Breathable work pants made from cotton fabric and featuring a hint of stretch are the most comfortable styles for all-day wear. Additionally, “A pull-on pant that keeps its shape looks elegant despite being immensely comfortable,” says Hughes. She suggests choosing one with a slight bootcut flare you can wear with flats, sneakers, and loafers. Why Shop With Us Irene Richardson is an associate editor at InStyle. For this story, she tried dozens of work pants to find the stylish, comfortable, and fashionable pairs she’d wear in and out of the office. She also spoke with the following experts for styling tips. Linda Cui Zhang is the associate fashion director at Nordstrom. Chantal Hughes is a Brooklyn-based fashion consultant with nearly two decades of experience working with notable brands, celebrity clients, and publications, including Khaite, Jenna Lyons, and Vogue. She also runs the Substack Tuesdays. Cherie Kilchrist is a Nashville-based celebrity stylist with clients such as Jason Aldean, Lainey Wilson, Kane Brown, and Katelyn Brown. Karen Phelps is the creative director at Agolde. Read more: Shopping