Fashion blogger Louisa Hatt wears her trusty strides whatever the weather
The humble black trouser: often overlooked and usually underrated. But I’ve realised that when you find the right ones, a really good pair of black trousers can be a staple wardrobe item that you’ll wear all year round.
For the longest time I avoided wearing black trousers. I associated them with fussiness, formality and funerals, so I could never get too excited about them. That all changed though, when I found the right pair. I wear black trousers at least twice a week and, to my surprise, I favour wearing them over leggings when I’m at home. I feel comfortable and confident, which is always what I’m looking for with any item in my wardrobe.
They come in so many different cuts and styles, so suit all ages, shapes and heights, which is another reason I love them: they’re such an inclusive item of clothing. It’s natural to associate black trousers with the colder winter months, however, they can be incredibly versatile throughout the year. This classic colour acts as a brilliant foundation for the rest of your outfit. Here are some of my favourite tips for finding a perfect pair, and where to buy them.
Buy out of season
This is a great tip for saving money – there are more black trousers available to buy in autumn/winter which means that they tend to be in sales in the summer months. The summer sales, usually starting in late June, are a good time to look for more premium/designer pairs while they are discounted (I bought a pair of black Toteme linen trousers for 60% off in the summer sales).
Tailored tailoring
If you find a pair of trousers that you love but are too big at the waist (or too long in the leg), consider buying them and getting them tailored. Although tailoring costs are an additional expense, you’ll end up with a pair of trousers that fit you perfectly. Buying trousers that are too tight and for your future-self is a false economy. I learned that lesson the hard way!
Natural beauty
Look for trousers made from natural fibres. Non-synthetic fabrics such as cotton, wool, linen and silk are often more environmentally friendly, as well as being more durable and breathable than, for example, polyester. Although it may initially cost a bit more to invest in quality trousers than ones made from a synthetic fabric, they will last longer, which results in a reduced cost per wear.
Trouser sandwiches
Try a black trouser sandwich in summer. Don’t worry, this isn’t a weird new food craze – it’s the term I use to describe colour matching. Think of the black trousers as the sandwich filling, then match the colour/tones of your footwear with what you’re wearing on your top half. It makes your outfit look more put together if there is a consistency of colour.
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