Trousers Inspired by the Gents, Made for the Ladies

The button detail all along the silky waistband of these black trousers are reminiscent of mens pants we used to sell in our stores “back in the day”. They even have the split detail in the back of the waist and the crisp pleats that were found on the best of men’s trousers. And the twist? These Rag & Bone dress trousers are pure woman, with their slimmer, cropped leg. Pair these with any silky or sheer blouse in black or white for a date night with your significant other.

Just because the styling is inspired by men’s trousers with it’s tab closure and welt back pockets, doesn’t mean they can’t be completely feminine and sexy. And guess what? They are coated twill – with stretch. Yup, they’re even comfortable. They come in navy, too. We actually love navy – it’s a unique option for a leather-like look, but please note the pants are a bit big on this model. We find they fit like the black shot, in a contemporary – but not too tight – fit. If you’re not familiar with this line, they started off specializing in custom-made jeans that are beyond fabulous. If they can perfect jeans for every body type, you know these will be a winner. Go bold with a sleeveless black blouse and pop of color in a suede pair of pumps.

Pretty in pink? These pleated crepe pants come in black, navy, and a pale brown, but pink – perfect this time of year and also popular this fall – is our pick. The juxtaposition of the girly pink and mens-inspired styling is just the right mix. Give these pants a bit of casual, yet sophisticated flare for a night out with a lightweight grey cashmere fitted sweater and a pair of grey pumps, which we featured a couple of weeks ago.

Rebecca Taylor is known for her contemporary, feminine designs. We love how she has added a touch of manly inspiration with the deep waist pleats and grey mélange suiting fabric. But that’s where the men’s touches end. These pants close with a back zip and have an easy wide leg, beautiful with a tucked in lacey blouse for an elegant evening. Be sure you tailor these pants to the right length, just above the ankle, which is very simple for your local dry cleaner to do. When paired with a strappy high heel, it will create the fluid and slimming line you want.

DKNY has created this contemporary pant that has just a hint of tuxedo inspiration in the leg seam, but it’s not a different material like some of the others we are featuring today – we admire the subtlety and versatility it creates. While these can certainly be worn for work, the slim (not skinny) silhouette is perfect for a night out, too. As you can see from this picture, you can dress them down and give them a sporty edge by wearing sneakers. And they easily dress up with heels. Any top works, really, from a casual boyfriend-style shirt to a slinkly blouse. Did we mention they have stretch? That makes sitting on a barstool a bit more comfortable.

The masculine plaid in a skinny silhouette – again, the mix of yin and yang - that makes them work so well. Shya is an amazing skinny silhouette from Genetic Denim, contemporary in fit, but very comfortable in a super soft, stretch fabric. We love these plaid pants for a casual night out with the girls, paired with your favorite easy tee and sleek bootie.

Casual pants can be inspired by tuxedos, too, and certainly gives them a fresh update. We adore this casual, relaxed fit version from Current/Elliott. They leave no detail untouched, using a very soft twill and 2-tone stripe that creates just a bit of sport – and a lot of style. The army color transitions easily into fall, but can be worn now with a white tank. For those easy nights with friends and family.

Have you tried Velvet’s new denim line, yet? It was just released and it is amazing! The fabrics are soft and stretchy in a contemporary fit. It’s not easy to find a grey wash in a boyfriend silhouette, but the darker wash gives us a little more dressed up feel for a casual night out. They are also available in a darker wash. The styling is loose at the hip, but the leg has a light taper, so they are not sloppy and will look great with a pair of heels and an edgy tee or button-down shirt. For a contemporary brand, the price is very good.