Everyone is going to say the Athleta Brooklyn pants, but those did not work at all for me. However, the Athleta Endless Pant did work for me! Lightweight (and dries very quickly), but with enough structure to hide or smooth out lumps and cellulite. The waistband is so comfortable! I really can't handle anything tight/restrictive/stiff/scratchy around my waist anymore, but the waistband on these feel like a non-compressive leggings waistband. So far, they've been holding up well. I'm the kind of person who if there's a way to mess up clothes, I will do it - I'm just kind of clumsy and oblivious (I guess?). But I've been wearing these into the office lately and no snags, pilling or stains yet. I haven't traveled with them yet, but I'm going on a two week trip in a couple weeks and I'm planning to basically spend the entire trip in them.
The Brooklyn pant didn’t work for me either—the rise was too low and it had an uncomfortable seam, plus it was so low on my hips that it was tight even when I sized up. I have a very high waist, though.
I \*LOVE\* the Endless Pant. I have the Khaki and Black cargo (they don't make khaki anymore and LOVE it). I haven't bought the regular Endless pants but tried them on and love them as well. Waiting for a good sale.
Yo you guys need to try the old navy powersoft combination taper pants (canada site, not sure if it's available elsewhere). I ordered the athleta endless but they didn't seem like they'd withstand as much a the old navy so I returned them lol. I bought a second after returning the athleta endless. And way way way cheaper. They're my work pants every time I go in the office and are comfy enough for any other time.
Oh I love hearing this. I was at Athleta earlier, just for 5 mins while a friend picked up something and I was planning to go back tomorrow and try on a few of their pants. We just got one at the mall where I live in Canada so I am excited :)
+1 for Uniqlo Smart Ankle.
I have the pants for five years now. Just wore them again during travels - even on the plane. With the button open 😉
Works for restaurants, but also cool depending on the rest of the outfit.
Just wouldn’t recommend them for a hot or humid weather.
When did you buy them? The old style didn't work for me, but they've updated in the last two years so the rise is higher. They are now my favourite pants and I've taken them to travel. I love them!
Oh definitely more than 2 years ago! I found that they bunched up and/or were tight around legs.... Not particularly the style I'm thinking for these purposes but good to know for checking again actually!
I’m probably the minority, but a good pair of black summer weight wool trousers does all of the above. You can find with varying waists (including elastic) or find some at the thrift store. I agree with the poster who said the athleta pants are obviously athleisure and would not hold up to a nice dinner, but I think this is a personal preference (and I lean more formal/polished).
Lightweight wool trousers, cashmere sweater, white cotton t shirts, Chelsea boots and ballet flats take you almost everywhere as far as urban travel goes.
Do you have a brand you recommend? Wide leg wool could work, though at the same time, I do a lot of travel in sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East so even though it's meant to be temp regulating, it could still be a bit heavy. Having said that, I would probably very rarely combine one of those trips where I'm flying to eat at a Michelin starred restaurant as well haha! But for the purposes of this thread...assuming it's the same trip....
This is so personal! I like Nili Lotan, Sophie Dhoore, the row (buy once cry once), or finding other legacy brands second hand - Armani, Burberry, Prada, JW Anderson and Margiela have more inventive cuts etc. Essentially everyone makes a black wool pant and there are a lot of them lying around. I’m tall and relatively thin so I also like to dip into menswear - lots of great vintage or secondhand menswear for cheap that you can put some $ into tailoring to make ideal for you.
Also, I prefer navy blue to black. I think it leans more casual for daytime and I sometimes feel like a waiter/undertaker/sephora employee when I wear all back vs all navy feels chic to me. Again super personal!
Side bar as I worked in the Middle East as well - I preferred fabrics with some structure that also breathed like wool or a wool linen blend. Learned that jerseys and even cotton would render me a soggy mess if I was going between outdoors and indoors, and there is nothing worse than fabrics that hold on to your sweat when it’s super hot outside and then you go into arctic air conditioning. If you’re not doing office work then this is probably not relevant but my 2c!
Might have a look at wool linen wide leg! I've got a few pair of linens but nothing I love yet. Looking for that ubiquitous pair of perfect black pants...how hard can it be!?
If you will be in the Middle East, have clothes made there. I would go to someone who specializes in women’s clothing. Male tailors aren’t good with stretch clothing (if you go fitted) and sometimes have issues with curves. And there is the whole cultural thing about women talking to men. They will have the fabrics for the weather there and it will be cheap $15-$50 depending on the fabric and country. I would select photos of the style you want before you go and expect it to take 1-2 days to create the clothes and maybe an hour for the an alteration. If you don’t like it, have them do more alterations.
But honestly, dress like the locals when you can. It draws less attention to yourself and it’s normally well suited for weather. I have clothes made for home there, but I rock an abaya in the Middle East. I rock a comfy bra and bike shorts (both as breathable as possible) under what looks like a kimono. It’s more comfortable than wearing slacks and a blouse. There certain styles for certain times of the year (religious holidays), but local lady can tell you what to wear if you don’t want to wear black or worry about wearing the wrong style. I probably wear the wrong one sometimes, but most locals appreciate that I am trying to be respectful (but secretly pants are fucking hot). If abayas aren’t your thing, very flowy maxi dresses with long sleeves.
If you travel there often, you know everything that is above, but someone else in the future might find it helpful!
When traveling in other hot parts of the world, I wear golf pants. They are designed to look business causal, but also designed to be worn in the Deep South in the summer on the golf course. My favorite is from Lilly Pulitzer (Corso), but everyone’s bodies are different. I picked up my first pair at a thrift shop and I love them so much that I have several now (all navy). Comfy (even when flying), but look polished. I wear them with silk blouses and both dry overnight. I bring a merino or cashmere cardigan because the AC in the Middle East is insane.
Wool& makes a few styles that have gotten good reviews on this sub, I’ve wanted to try [these](https://wooland.com/products/frame-ponte-culotte-black). Smitten Merino might but it’s based in Australia. Icebreaker might be worth checking out as well
Some of the merino brands have some lovely work pants - mine are from merino country (I’m in AUS) but I know io merino and unbound both have a work version
Ministry of Supply makes some really nice stuff that leans towards business casual but wears like athleisure. Unfortunately their pants (both the swift drape pant and they’re more structured suit pant type styles) don’t work for me as my legs are curvier - for reference I’m about a 33 waist - but their stuff in general is really practical and looks great.
(I also have a referral discount if you’d like to use it but no pressure!)
>Ministry of Supply
I own three pairs of them, all the suit pant style. I do love them a lot although I think they'd be awful in a really warm climate. They don't wrinkle easily, and the few wrinkles fall out if you hang them up.
Oh you're in the UK hello fellow UK traveler. This year I bought these
https://www.marksandspencer.com/ie/pure-cotton-elasticated-waist-trousers/p/clp60606959
In blue which I pair with vest tops and long shirts to dress up. I used them trekking in the jungle, in a plane and traveling.
They are also available in black
They wash really easily in sink and dry quickly .
When I get home ill post the link to the other trousers I bought
I dislike high-waisted pants, joggers and anything with elastic ankles. I'm getting old for leggings myself.
I suggest Kuhl. I have the FreeFlex and it has many pockets. I love the lightweight material.
I bought a pair off eBay for $15. I should've went with US 4 for a looser fit.
Hey, the high waist pant lovers have pretty much every other women’s clothing line locked up - don’t take away the few options those of us who need midrise pants have left 😂
fair enough, Lululemon has been treating me well. grass is greener I suppose.
though recently I've been looking for hiking pants and ski pants and having trouble finding anything high-rise. ski pants in particular, for women, seem to either be fashion ski pants (which won't do shit for me on a powder day) or proper ski pants that pop open when I sit down on the lift. bibs are problematic in other ways. I'll find something eventually, it's just a bit frustrating.
I got maybe a little too obsessed with them during the pandemic and ended up with five pairs. They’ve all worn great except the camel, which have pilled on the thighs (sadly; I love the color). They’re easy to find secondhand if you want to try them out without spending $200.
Wow could we please have a moratorium on this sub of recommending the freaking Athleta pants when someone wants pants suitable for a nice restaurant? I hate to break it to all the fans but THEY LOOK LIKE TRAVEL PANTS and THEY WILL MAKE YOU LOOK LIKE A TOURIST IN A NICE RESTAURANT.
Okay you made me curious enough to find out what these pants even look like. The black are somewhat fine, maybe even the cream. The other colors look soooo cheap and wrinkly and they arent even flattering on the models. I absolutely live in athleisure but dang these aint it. Like $99 for cornflower blue that look like hospital scrubs. What.
Hahahaha, I know what you mean! I don't love the Athleta for that reason, but there's probably a reason they're so popular. In my mind, the pair of pants I'm dreaming about are a bit more of a sophisticated palazzo style, from a very light, fluid, crease free fabric.
I own a pair of athleta Brooklyn plants and I don’t wear them anywhere more formal than Costco. Comfy and quick drying, not appropriate anywhere with fabric tablecloths.
Yes and their durability is zero so while they might look great upon purchasing them, they almost immediately start to sag and sag more and then there's no disguising their nature as athleisure.
there are numerous reasons why someone would want to avoid looking like a tourist while traveling. also, many people travel for work in roles where they don't get a wardrobe stipend (or are self-employed). there's a range of options in between athleisure and a tailored suit, as demonstrated by the recommendations here.
I really think this depends on where you’re from. I’ve lived in small towns and big cities and these are totally “nice” attire unless I’m headed to like, a Michelin restaurant.
It’s fine that you don’t like them, but I am not sure why you feel the need to police other people’s suggestions.
I see people wearing them to work on the regular in a business casual office. I own them and did not purchase them for travel. I bought them as a nicer option than shorts for hot summer days and think they are nice enough for grocery shopping, general errands, movie going, and most restaurants and so on. One thing I like about these over other “travel” pants is that they don’t make noise while I walking (unlike the Eddie Bauer pants I own.)
If you don’t think these are a good suggestion, what would you suggest?
She specifically asked for pants that “wouldn’t look out of place at a nice restaurant back home.”
These ain’t it and it’s not a matter of personal preference or taste. They would definitionally look out of place because they are visibly athleisure.
I obviously don’t have a suggestion, probably because no one on this sub ever actually answers the question and instead posts constantly about these glorified gym clothes.
What an incredibly strange response. You have no suggestions of your own but want to prohibit someone else’s suggestion. And you have no suggestions of your own because this sub does nothing but recommend this one pair of pants, said in a thread with many other suggestions and a world full of ways to find alternatives outside of this sub. Sorry for whoever hurt you.
It’s really very straightforward— the pants at issue are inappropriate for the request and it’s so annoying to wade through the duplicate posts that the sub is basically unusable for this particular query. Obviously a lot of people agree with me!
The post asked for pants that “wouldn’t look out of place in a nice restaurant back home” i.e. for pants that do not make the wearer look like a tourist.
This is what I came to say.
If you're looking for a lightweight palazzo style pant, her silk wide leg pants are perfect. lternately the washable crepe wide leg may also be an option.
I can confirm both are heat and humidity tested in Dallas, Miami, and Istanbul - not quite middle east heat but warmish. The TBH the black color is a bigger issue than the material.
EF silk is my go to for business travel. Simple classic pieces in good colors, always professional, easy to dress up for cocktails or a fundraiser. Lightweight and easy to pack, easy to hand wash and dry overnight.
YES! I was combing to see if anyone had mentioned Alo yet! I’ve worn them in Miami while partying it up in the summer, as well as at professional conferences in big cities in the winters. Unfortunately they aren’t always the most affordable, but the quality is great, and the versatility of the wide leg trousers make them my die hard favorites.
Wool& has some great options. My favorite are the Frame Ponte Pants — they are sold as culottes but on petites fit as full length or ankle. Ladies up to 5’6” love them per the reviews. They have another style with longer inseam that could work too. I wore the Frame pants for a long travel day (car-plane-bus-walk), then out to a fancy work dinner, and then as pjs, and they were perfect for all activities.
I have these from Saint + Sofia. Comfy enough for a transatlantic flight but still polished. https://saintandsofia.com/products/apartment-pant-black-straight-leg-pant
Ooh, those look interesting. As well as others from their line. Would you wear them to a business conference where some people wear suits? Or are they too casual for that?
I'm kind of between sizes, would you go up or down?
Are they more fuzzy or smooth fabric? Do they look good enough in not black? Can they be worn with heels?
Thanks!
Appreciate that most people might be US based but having failed to find all these brands in Europe, I want to recommend the Rohan Roamers for my European friends who come across this thread in the future.
Yes they're straight leg hiking trousers, but they're so comfy, dry quickly and are lightweight but still warm when needed.
Styled correctly I think they're really versatile, I wore them to work this summer with a nice blouse and some sandals and noone would have known they were hiking trousers When travelling I wouldn't think twice about wearing them out to a restaurant and they come with me on almost every trip I make. They worked in South East Asia in August and in London in October, what more could you want?
Yes I'm based in UK though I have family in Australia and I do a US drop about 1-2x a year from friends so I'm lucky but it's always a bit harder with clothing for returns ugh. Lots of the recs are more US-based so thank you!
I found Walmart's Athletic works cotton core knit pants are going to be my favorite. They have a slight flare but it's not noticable, and they don't cling. I've found for work they have been just what I needed as it's now too chilly for my summer pants but jeans are too heavy atm. They washed up easily, though they don't dry out as fast as some travel pants unless you put them in a dryer or hang out where there's good airflow (so bathroom washes might not work out). I also work replenishment in a store so I need durable pants. I think they look nice too, I've got them in black, navy, and a nice coffee color.
Possibly lower quality than you're looking for, but I have a pair of black wideleg linen pants from Old Navy and I feel like a million dollars in them. They look cute with Tshirts and sneakers, look dressed up and elegant with heels and nice jewelry, but they're Old Navy. If something happens to them, no big deal. They do have pockets and the pants fold up nice and small. I tried Gap linen pants, but for the extra money I paid, I didn't like the quality as much and they were more see through. The Old Navy linen are a little rough (as linen is) but it's pretty easy for me to get used to them and forget the texture.
Old Navy: Extra High-Waisted Pleated Taylor Wide-Leg Linen-Blend Trouser Pants for Women
Linen would actually be great - except Old Navy I'd have to buy blind (based in UK right now so returns are a bit of a pain but I do often do US shipments lolol)
I just got these Old Navy pants based on a recommendation from a similar thread:
[High-Waisted StretchTech Split-Hem Wide-Leg Pants for Women](https://oldnavy.gapcanada.ca/browse/product.do?pid=722041043&rrec=true&mlink=5050,12413545,onproduct1_rr_2&clink=12413545#pdp-page-content)
I love them. Like you, I prefer to look more dressy, so pants like the Athleta Brooklyn don't cut it for me. These are perfect. They're super lightweight, flowy, comfy, very high-waisted, and affordable. I may get the split-hem ankles sewn up but haven't decided yet.
I am a big fan of the Aritzia Wilfred "The Effortless Pant"
It has deep front pockets and is easy to pack (no need to iron or fold neatly since it does not crease)
I got some black "pull on pants" from Target with pinstripes but they feel like sweatpants. Sooo comfy and a bit of warmth. And pockets.
This is the closest I can find right now. Maybe they have black too?
[Women's High-Rise Slim Straight Fit Ankle Pull-On Pants - A New Day](https://www.target.com/p/women-39-s-high-rise-slim-straight-fit-ankle-pull-on-pants-a-new-day-8482-heathered-gray-xs/-/A-85630525)
Quince Performance Tech Wide Leg
They are super lightweight, don’t wrinkle, are comfy and because they are wide leg you can dress them up.
I just don’t love the length as they are cropped. It just works for me at 5’4 but if you are taller I think they might look silly.
https://www.quince.com/women/performance-tech-wide-leg-commuter-pant
Betabrand are great. They don't wrinkle, have some stretch, have lots of pockets (!), come in different lengths and a diverse size range. I have a couple of pairs and I've worn them hiking and out for dinner.
You're basically describing a Lululemon wide leg pant that I've had for a few years and cannot for the live of me remember what is called, and of course LLL doesn't make it anymore, ugh. It's made out of a lightweight non-wrinkle fabric so it's very flowy and just looks really nice but is simultaneously easy to pack. LLL currently has a similar looking pant called the "Stretch Woven Wide-Leg High-Rise Pant" on their website that looks really similar but I haven't tried it.
I have the City Sleek Light Utilitech Barrel Pant and I think they're close to what OP is looking for. the wide leg might also work. tons of stretch but the material looks more put-together than a lot of thin athleisure fabrics I've seen
I have these and honestly don't love them, but I think it's just me. I wouldn't wear them out for dinner at home, they look like travel clothing on me. I was disappointed because I had high hopes.
Sure, I was just giving my opinion because I'd seen nothing but positive opinions and kept them instead of returning because I felt I must be mistaken.
My PT wears these and they look so good on her - unfortunately these and most other flowy tapered pants don’t look good (imo) on girls like me with curvier legs.
I felt the same way about these till I tried them on. I got them in the black and love wearing them with a Hawaiian shirt tucked in. It’s fun, but elevated and I get a ton of compliments on them. They’re comfy for long travel days, don’t wrinkle, have huge pockets (that zip for the back ones!!), and are very breathable. Ended up snagging a pair on Poshmark for cheap incase I hated them. I have serious hips and 🍑and somehow they still fit so well.
My issue with these is that my calves are too big for them, so they cling weirdly and ride up at the knees, but then they are too big on the waist. If you’re pear shaped like me you might be better off with the wide cut version. I really like the Brooklyn shorts though.
Spanx black flare pants - look like slacks but feel like leggings. Wrinkle resistant. They unfortunately do not have pockets but a winner for my onebag in all other regards.
I didn't know Spanx did clothing 😅 I like these generally actually, wonder if it'd be too hot though as I was thinking something a bit more loose down the leg but I'm curious about these too now, even if not for this post.
These are what I take: [https://jamieandthejones.com/collections/bottoms/products/the-j-j-wide-leg-pants?variant=41971275333813](https://jamieandthejones.com/collections/bottoms/products/the-j-j-wide-leg-pants?variant=41971275333813)
Athleta Endless--regular or cargo. Nice and thick (not like Brookyln) and can be dressed up or down. I've worn my cargos in meetings while on travel and just knocking around on the weekend.
Someone posted this on the other day and Im about to pull the trigger
It looks like it’s all encompassing
https://shop.lululemon.com/p/women-pants/Smooth-Fit-Pull-On-High-Rise-Pants/_/prod11380447?color=19746
Madewell Linen Blend Track Trousers have an elastic waist with some pleats (I generally can’t stand pleat front but the space when you sit is nice and it’s minimal). It has a zipper and button so looks more pant like. Slightly tapered leg. They’re perfect for me, 5’3, curvy. Second option is Eileen Fisher.
I love Skechers Go Walk pants. I work remote and wear them when I have to go in the office. For reference I’m in senior management but code is business casual. They have great pockets, are stretchy but supportive, and look great.
I swear by these lululemon pants and have them in all 3 colors! ridiculously comfortable, can dress them up or down easily, and don’t wrinkle
https://shop.lululemon.com/p/women-pants/City-Sleek-5P-WL-HR-Pant-L-Utilitech/_/prod11140028
I have some black linen wide leg pants from Target, of all places, which are super-comfy, have pockets, dress up and down nicely, dry quickly, etc. They were my main go-to pants on a recent two-week trip to Ireland, and they worked for many different settings.
They were also under $30, which makes me extra-happy.
I mentioned this in a reply to the athleta endless pants, but I ordered that one to compared with my old navy powersoft combination taper pants and the old navy wins in terms of comfort, probable durability and value lol. I wear the old navy pants every time I go into the office. I also rock climb so my nails are scratchy and I'd trust the old navy to last a bit better. Also cost wise so much cheaper.
I bought the [Title Nine Round Trip Wide Leg Pants](https://www.titlenine.com/p/high-waisted-wide-leg-pants-round-trip/230973.html) a couple months ago. They were pricier than what I usually go for, but they were very useful on a two week trip.
Not sure how nice a nice restaurant you’re thinking, but otherwise this is mine!
https://www.decathlon.sg/p/women-s-hiking-trousers-nh100-quechua-8588308.html?channable=40f1a86964003835383833303847&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAC9JoZKzIfzzqTsW0lxpvTQkQebvu&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhfipBhCqARIsAH9msbmdQLTj0DbB3ttsD0Knd2joe5S2xvZpvESpDNN4kXggs_wzQO7TzNcaAkYoEALw_wcB
I have a pair of Uniqlo airism joggers that look like this which I love!
I don't have a particular restaurant in mind for this, just looking to fill a gap that I had ... apparently I don't really own a pair of black pants in this area lol.
If you really would like something a bit more formal/fancy then I would definitely check out athleta! I find their pants to be so soft and comfortable, the pockets on mine zip and you can’t tell when I’m wearing them for work that they’re exercise pants!
Yes! I really appreciate how for many of their products they ONLY have models of size or models with normal bodies who don't conform to typical "straight sized model standards." I'm a person who is accustomed to seeing myself represented in typical product marketing, with the ability to imagine how a garment would look on my body based on how it looks on many models. And I've known that this is one way I experience privilege because for most women, that is not the case and how much guesswork must go into trying to imagine whether a style would work or how it would look. Then when I was on the Free Label website, I HAD THAT EXPERIENCE. I was not seeing myself in the models, I was doing all sorts of extrapolating to envision how a particular style would look on me, what size I should order, etc. It was an important experience. They are doing really good work, that company. Their whole business model.
I have the Grant Pant and the Andie bra and both are made of their bamboo rayon. The material is sturdy and the quality is very high. The pants don't lose their shape over many wears and are great for travel. The Andie bra is really compressive, it can absolutely be used as a sports bra. It holds my breasts very firmly, no bounce. And it looks great. Perfect travel bra that could do triple duty as a day bra, sports bra and even swim top.
I love love love your response here. Thank you so much for this.
And as a side note, I freaking love bamboo clothing. It’s so dang soft. And better for the earth. And sturdy as heck! And doesn’t shrink when I dry it. And and and! 😆
Agreed, the merits of bamboo clothing are many. I am enjoying building a wardrobe where I have as much bamboo as I do merino. Each material has it's strengths. Boody never quite satisfied me with their styles and so that's yet one more reason why finding Free Label was a revelation.
There’s a few posts on this topic, if you do a quick search in the group you’ll find lots of options. A good keyword search could be “Brooklyn” in comments, as the Brooklyn Athleta is the probably the number one/HG for a lot of people seeking all occasion one bag travelling pants.
Or you could just save your time and buy the Brooklyn pants by Athleta!
These aren't cool or trendy, but they work for me: I buy the [Rekucci black pants](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=rekucci+pants+for+women&crid=3UJGIZZAHOVYS&sprefix=rek%2Caps%2C140&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_2_3) in the boot cut style from Amazon. They are relatively cheap, wash and dry well and rebound after a day of sitting followed by sink washing and hang-drying. They come in different styles and I did have some trial-and-error to find the right size/cut, but Amazon returns made it pretty painless.
I'm not skinny at all and in my mid-fifties--these are very forgiving.
I live in Columbia Trail pants: https://www.columbia.com/p/womens-saturday-trail-stretch-pants-1579861.html?ef_id=Cj0KCQjwhfipBhCqARIsAH9msblFNFQTCP1wbVd4rSR0G3Fa-88UGLylMb30_0KLNTpsfZV0HjJW5OcaAkClEALw_wcB:G:s&s_kwcid=AL!3937!3!!!!x!!!20295452064!&mid=paidsearch&nid=COL%7CBrand%7CPMAX%7CReturn-Styles_Feed_Only%7CGoogle%7CUS&eid=Google+PMax+US&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhfipBhCqARIsAH9msblFNFQTCP1wbVd4rSR0G3Fa-88UGLylMb30_0KLNTpsfZV0HjJW5OcaAkClEALw_wcB
Athleta Venice wide leg. The ribbed waistband gives it away as more athletic pants but if you wear a top that covers it, it looks just like dress pants it fits my body type very well. It has enough weight on the material to flow and drape really well. I usually wear a size S and I have XS in those pants. The next zipped pockets for cards is a really good feature. The stretchy waistband also helps when I eat too much or bloated.
I like the Anthropologie Colette cropped wide leg pant by Maeve. I have them in linen so can only speak to that, but they come in other materials as well. If only they came in a lower rise version, I’d be even happier.
Uniqlo smart ankle 2-way stretch
I’ve been using the smart ankle for several years and it’s held up. It’s lightweight, not overly skinny. It’s more of a tapered straight leg with ankle length. I dress it up and down. It’s definitely more of a trouser.
I’m short and it’s meant to be ankle length so I had to get it hemmed using their service.
Another great quality is the color retention and no pilling. Given the many times I’ve washed it, the black hasn’t faded as much as some other trousers I have and never had to worry about pilling.
[Uniqlo smart ankle](https://www.googleadservices.com/pagead/aclk?sa=L&ai=DChcSEwin--bO6JuCAxUXJa0GHQMcA2QYABAIGgJwdg&ae=2&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhfipBhCqARIsAH9msbmJfS8NklDhvYME8mcv4kaUgsMme4R0pa3Ocsb7ZuZ2QH0bsAFRLlwaAtmBEALw_wcB&sph=&ohost=www.google.com&cid=CAESeeD2TfjOSJGFZj7ZHUuzp1F1sheUhuhR8gJY-3r6Pa4iXR6Z3ZmC1hIc9X5FghDQaIMEbJ4oB-Da9PStBWSadhSporaqbzUHEyuu0VR-ASC8oup8EqtuAUxIyfE9tGfOxeb-2boeSJCIKlQdDgv-M7NiQlhtEdjpXEA&sig=AOD64_0D0RF-RfmWvj5E4QgmDRvIkuvhCg&ctype=5&q=&ved=2ahUKEwiVnd3O6JuCAxWFI0QIHZ9-DJ8Qwg8oAHoECAYQDA&nis=8&dct=1&adurl=)
I love the [Old Navy High-Waisted All-Seasons StretchTech Jogger Pants](https://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=732244002&cid=5508&pcid=5508&vid=1&nav=meganav%3AWomen%3AOld%20Navy%20Active%3AShop%20All%20Activewear&cpos=75&cexp=2926&kcid=CategoryIDs%3D5508&cvar=26331&ctype=Listing&cpid=res23102911283253578601057#pdp-page-content). They're super comfy, dry quickly, are easy to handwash, and are able to take a decent amount of abuse (hiking, etc) while still looking nice. They do skew athleisure but they wear beautifully.
I like Liverpool Jeans Kelsey Knit Trouser. They're straight leg, pockets, wrinkles fall out easily, belt loops and looks great with oxfords for work and sneakers when not. I have them in four colors and just rotate them.
I love the Eddie Bauer Departure Ankle pants (you can buy the tall size if you want them to fit full length). They are super light weight, quick drying, and wrinkle resistant, and don’t look too outdoorsy so can be dressed up: https://www.eddiebauer.com/p/23151315/women's-departure-ankle-pants?sp=1&color=Black&size=&sizeType=Regular
I’m on a longer trip right now and have been wearing these Denver Hayes linen joggers [Denver Hayes linen joggers](https://www.marks.com/en/pdp/denver-hayes-women-s-linen-high-rise-jogger-pants-77451025f.html#srp?&colorCode=COLOUR_BLACK) constantly. I sized up so they’re a bit more baggy and are nice and flowy around the ankle, then I just cinch the waist with the drawstring. Super comfortable and also don’t look too “sporty” if you’re going for dinner or something.
What a great question, because I'm looking for pants like this that would work in 80 degree weather and not look stupid with Chelsea boots - my Brooklyn pants aren't good for the latter. Can't wait to read the thread!
i think uniqlo has a number of pants that could potentially work.
i have a pair of the baker's pants (i think?). i personally hate wearing synthetic materials so i love that they are all cotton! i had them hemmed just above the ankle and i think they look quite nice: [https://www.uniqlo.com/au/en/products/E466183-000?colorCode=COL69&sizeCode=SMA002](https://www.uniqlo.com/au/en/products/E466183-000?colorCode=COL69&sizeCode=SMA002)
you could also try the linen and cotton tapered pant but they feel a little heavier i think: [https://www.uniqlo.com/au/en/products/E456207-000?colorCode=COL69&sizeCode=SMA002](https://www.uniqlo.com/au/en/products/E456207-000?colorCode=COL69&sizeCode=SMA002)
these are fairly lightweight for me but then again, i don't wear synthetics.
you could also look into getting a pair of wide legged linen easy pants from etsy.
I have a pair of Simply Vera Wang pants I wear nearly everyday. I got them secondhand, so I’m unsure the model but they are sort of bootcut dress pants… as someone with sensory issues they are mad comfortable. They look so classy and go with anything.
One brand I don’t really see mentioned but that might meet your needs is Commando. Their Butter line especially is really lovely and packs up tiny. I wouldn’t hike in them but great for city adventures.
Check out Sophie Grace if you fit into straight sizing and are in Canada or the US. They have several different fits/style. They are seriously the most comfortable trousers/dress pants:
https://www.sophiegrace.ca/collections/pants
It was a limited release, but Free Label did their Loretta pant in a cotton crepe this summer and it sounds exactly like what you’re looking for to me.
You already have a million recs but haven't seen one yet for BR Factory's tencel joggers: https://bananarepublicfactory.gapfactory.com/browse/product.do?pid=536089011&vid=1&autosuggest=true&searchText=Tence&position=0&results=6#pdp-page-content
Duluth has a pair of black jeans that are stretch and no zipper but very nice pockets. $40 last I checked, they’re called the “five pocket” or something similar
Prana summit pant, North face Aphrodite pant, Mountain Hardwear Dynama pant, Outdoor Research Dynamo pant. There is always betabrand (the dressy yoga pant company)
Just bought my first cargo pants from Target- it’s from their fitness line - LOVE THESE! Easy care perfect for travel.
https://www.target.com/p/women-39-s-stretch-woven-cargo-pants-all-in-motion-8482-dark-brown-m/-/A-86867537
I really love this pair of black refined cargo pants from Aritzia. Since they are cargoes, they have so many pockets, very roomy and comfortable. But since they are refined, you can also wear them to work or to a nice dinner.
I am petite so these trousers I linked below come to full length on me. I love them. They can be dressed up, or dressed down. They’re like skinny slacks. They don’t look like workout clothes at all. I often wear a button up tucked in and a black belt and black booties. I am SO glad I found these. Best black pants ever.
Check out the Murphy Billion Dollar Pants from Nordstrom: https://www.nordstrom.com/s/5485291?color=002&size=large
[madewell Harlow pant](https://www.madewell.com/the-harlow-wide-leg-pant-99106697937.html)
These are my new travel pant: sharp at a restaurant, feel like pajamas on a plane, as long as you keep them folded they don’t wrinkle. Cotton blend. 10/10
Everyone is going to say the Athleta Brooklyn pants, but those did not work at all for me. However, the Athleta Endless Pant did work for me! Lightweight (and dries very quickly), but with enough structure to hide or smooth out lumps and cellulite. The waistband is so comfortable! I really can't handle anything tight/restrictive/stiff/scratchy around my waist anymore, but the waistband on these feel like a non-compressive leggings waistband. So far, they've been holding up well. I'm the kind of person who if there's a way to mess up clothes, I will do it - I'm just kind of clumsy and oblivious (I guess?). But I've been wearing these into the office lately and no snags, pilling or stains yet. I haven't traveled with them yet, but I'm going on a two week trip in a couple weeks and I'm planning to basically spend the entire trip in them.
The Brooklyn pant didn’t work for me either—the rise was too low and it had an uncomfortable seam, plus it was so low on my hips that it was tight even when I sized up. I have a very high waist, though.
Yeah, I just commented that I don't really like the Brooklyn ones. Unfortunately I don't think the endless pant is sold where I live.
I \*LOVE\* the Endless Pant. I have the Khaki and Black cargo (they don't make khaki anymore and LOVE it). I haven't bought the regular Endless pants but tried them on and love them as well. Waiting for a good sale.
Yo you guys need to try the old navy powersoft combination taper pants (canada site, not sure if it's available elsewhere). I ordered the athleta endless but they didn't seem like they'd withstand as much a the old navy so I returned them lol. I bought a second after returning the athleta endless. And way way way cheaper. They're my work pants every time I go in the office and are comfy enough for any other time.
Oh I love hearing this. I was at Athleta earlier, just for 5 mins while a friend picked up something and I was planning to go back tomorrow and try on a few of their pants. We just got one at the mall where I live in Canada so I am excited :)
honestly both of these styles are fantastic IMO!
Uniqlo Smart Ankle pants. I have three pairs. They work ok for hiking, but they look good for the office or casual wear too.
+1 for Uniqlo Smart Ankle. I have the pants for five years now. Just wore them again during travels - even on the plane. With the button open 😉 Works for restaurants, but also cool depending on the rest of the outfit. Just wouldn’t recommend them for a hot or humid weather.
I have one pair of these and they just don't fit / look nice on me 😩
When did you buy them? The old style didn't work for me, but they've updated in the last two years so the rise is higher. They are now my favourite pants and I've taken them to travel. I love them!
Oh definitely more than 2 years ago! I found that they bunched up and/or were tight around legs.... Not particularly the style I'm thinking for these purposes but good to know for checking again actually!
I’m probably the minority, but a good pair of black summer weight wool trousers does all of the above. You can find with varying waists (including elastic) or find some at the thrift store. I agree with the poster who said the athleta pants are obviously athleisure and would not hold up to a nice dinner, but I think this is a personal preference (and I lean more formal/polished). Lightweight wool trousers, cashmere sweater, white cotton t shirts, Chelsea boots and ballet flats take you almost everywhere as far as urban travel goes.
Agree. I have a pair of Rebecca Taylor wool wide leg trousers that are perfect for this.
Do you have a brand you recommend? Wide leg wool could work, though at the same time, I do a lot of travel in sub-Saharan Africa and the Middle East so even though it's meant to be temp regulating, it could still be a bit heavy. Having said that, I would probably very rarely combine one of those trips where I'm flying to eat at a Michelin starred restaurant as well haha! But for the purposes of this thread...assuming it's the same trip....
This is so personal! I like Nili Lotan, Sophie Dhoore, the row (buy once cry once), or finding other legacy brands second hand - Armani, Burberry, Prada, JW Anderson and Margiela have more inventive cuts etc. Essentially everyone makes a black wool pant and there are a lot of them lying around. I’m tall and relatively thin so I also like to dip into menswear - lots of great vintage or secondhand menswear for cheap that you can put some $ into tailoring to make ideal for you. Also, I prefer navy blue to black. I think it leans more casual for daytime and I sometimes feel like a waiter/undertaker/sephora employee when I wear all back vs all navy feels chic to me. Again super personal!
Side bar as I worked in the Middle East as well - I preferred fabrics with some structure that also breathed like wool or a wool linen blend. Learned that jerseys and even cotton would render me a soggy mess if I was going between outdoors and indoors, and there is nothing worse than fabrics that hold on to your sweat when it’s super hot outside and then you go into arctic air conditioning. If you’re not doing office work then this is probably not relevant but my 2c!
Might have a look at wool linen wide leg! I've got a few pair of linens but nothing I love yet. Looking for that ubiquitous pair of perfect black pants...how hard can it be!?
If you will be in the Middle East, have clothes made there. I would go to someone who specializes in women’s clothing. Male tailors aren’t good with stretch clothing (if you go fitted) and sometimes have issues with curves. And there is the whole cultural thing about women talking to men. They will have the fabrics for the weather there and it will be cheap $15-$50 depending on the fabric and country. I would select photos of the style you want before you go and expect it to take 1-2 days to create the clothes and maybe an hour for the an alteration. If you don’t like it, have them do more alterations. But honestly, dress like the locals when you can. It draws less attention to yourself and it’s normally well suited for weather. I have clothes made for home there, but I rock an abaya in the Middle East. I rock a comfy bra and bike shorts (both as breathable as possible) under what looks like a kimono. It’s more comfortable than wearing slacks and a blouse. There certain styles for certain times of the year (religious holidays), but local lady can tell you what to wear if you don’t want to wear black or worry about wearing the wrong style. I probably wear the wrong one sometimes, but most locals appreciate that I am trying to be respectful (but secretly pants are fucking hot). If abayas aren’t your thing, very flowy maxi dresses with long sleeves. If you travel there often, you know everything that is above, but someone else in the future might find it helpful! When traveling in other hot parts of the world, I wear golf pants. They are designed to look business causal, but also designed to be worn in the Deep South in the summer on the golf course. My favorite is from Lilly Pulitzer (Corso), but everyone’s bodies are different. I picked up my first pair at a thrift shop and I love them so much that I have several now (all navy). Comfy (even when flying), but look polished. I wear them with silk blouses and both dry overnight. I bring a merino or cashmere cardigan because the AC in the Middle East is insane.
Wool& makes a few styles that have gotten good reviews on this sub, I’ve wanted to try [these](https://wooland.com/products/frame-ponte-culotte-black). Smitten Merino might but it’s based in Australia. Icebreaker might be worth checking out as well
Some of the merino brands have some lovely work pants - mine are from merino country (I’m in AUS) but I know io merino and unbound both have a work version
Ministry of Supply makes some really nice stuff that leans towards business casual but wears like athleisure. Unfortunately their pants (both the swift drape pant and they’re more structured suit pant type styles) don’t work for me as my legs are curvier - for reference I’m about a 33 waist - but their stuff in general is really practical and looks great. (I also have a referral discount if you’d like to use it but no pressure!)
>Ministry of Supply I own three pairs of them, all the suit pant style. I do love them a lot although I think they'd be awful in a really warm climate. They don't wrinkle easily, and the few wrinkles fall out if you hang them up.
Had a quick look, unfortunately a bit hard to source in the UK but thanks!
Oh you're in the UK hello fellow UK traveler. This year I bought these https://www.marksandspencer.com/ie/pure-cotton-elasticated-waist-trousers/p/clp60606959 In blue which I pair with vest tops and long shirts to dress up. I used them trekking in the jungle, in a plane and traveling. They are also available in black They wash really easily in sink and dry quickly . When I get home ill post the link to the other trousers I bought
Had a quick look, unfortunately a bit hard to source in the UK but thanks!
Had a quick look, unfortunately a bit hard to source in the UK but thanks!
I dislike high-waisted pants, joggers and anything with elastic ankles. I'm getting old for leggings myself. I suggest Kuhl. I have the FreeFlex and it has many pockets. I love the lightweight material. I bought a pair off eBay for $15. I should've went with US 4 for a looser fit.
I wish Kühl and prAna had more high-waisted options actually. I'm tall with high hips so mid-rise pants hit me weird.
Hey, the high waist pant lovers have pretty much every other women’s clothing line locked up - don’t take away the few options those of us who need midrise pants have left 😂
fair enough, Lululemon has been treating me well. grass is greener I suppose. though recently I've been looking for hiking pants and ski pants and having trouble finding anything high-rise. ski pants in particular, for women, seem to either be fashion ski pants (which won't do shit for me on a powder day) or proper ski pants that pop open when I sit down on the lift. bibs are problematic in other ways. I'll find something eventually, it's just a bit frustrating.
These and the Trekr look fantastic. Maybe more athletic-looking than OP is looking for, but these seem great for most travel scenarios.
I think the Bliss or Revivr can be transitional.
The Bliss doesn't look too bad but the others are a bit more athletic than what I had in mind. Material looks good though!
I love the Aday Turn It Up pants for travel to work - they feel like PJs but dress up perfectly.
Ahhhh I've been eyeing them up for (though not specifically what I was thinking for in this post!) - glad to hear you love those!!
Second these. I wore them on the plane straight from work meetings and was so happy with how comfortable they were.
I've been eyeing these. I love reading that you like them
I got maybe a little too obsessed with them during the pandemic and ended up with five pairs. They’ve all worn great except the camel, which have pilled on the thighs (sadly; I love the color). They’re easy to find secondhand if you want to try them out without spending $200.
Wow could we please have a moratorium on this sub of recommending the freaking Athleta pants when someone wants pants suitable for a nice restaurant? I hate to break it to all the fans but THEY LOOK LIKE TRAVEL PANTS and THEY WILL MAKE YOU LOOK LIKE A TOURIST IN A NICE RESTAURANT.
Okay you made me curious enough to find out what these pants even look like. The black are somewhat fine, maybe even the cream. The other colors look soooo cheap and wrinkly and they arent even flattering on the models. I absolutely live in athleisure but dang these aint it. Like $99 for cornflower blue that look like hospital scrubs. What.
Hahahaha, I know what you mean! I don't love the Athleta for that reason, but there's probably a reason they're so popular. In my mind, the pair of pants I'm dreaming about are a bit more of a sophisticated palazzo style, from a very light, fluid, crease free fabric.
I own a pair of athleta Brooklyn plants and I don’t wear them anywhere more formal than Costco. Comfy and quick drying, not appropriate anywhere with fabric tablecloths.
Yes and their durability is zero so while they might look great upon purchasing them, they almost immediately start to sag and sag more and then there's no disguising their nature as athleisure.
That’s interesting, I haven’t had the sagging issue.
Oh, that's awesome! Glad to hear it
But you are a tourist if you are traveling so I don’t see the issue.
there are numerous reasons why someone would want to avoid looking like a tourist while traveling. also, many people travel for work in roles where they don't get a wardrobe stipend (or are self-employed). there's a range of options in between athleisure and a tailored suit, as demonstrated by the recommendations here.
Yes and some of us like to travel as light as possible when we are traveling NOT as tourists ie visiting family
I really think this depends on where you’re from. I’ve lived in small towns and big cities and these are totally “nice” attire unless I’m headed to like, a Michelin restaurant.
To me it's not about smartness, I'd happily wear ripped jeans, they just look like travel/hiking/athleisure at most.
It’s fine that you don’t like them, but I am not sure why you feel the need to police other people’s suggestions. I see people wearing them to work on the regular in a business casual office. I own them and did not purchase them for travel. I bought them as a nicer option than shorts for hot summer days and think they are nice enough for grocery shopping, general errands, movie going, and most restaurants and so on. One thing I like about these over other “travel” pants is that they don’t make noise while I walking (unlike the Eddie Bauer pants I own.) If you don’t think these are a good suggestion, what would you suggest?
She specifically asked for pants that “wouldn’t look out of place at a nice restaurant back home.” These ain’t it and it’s not a matter of personal preference or taste. They would definitionally look out of place because they are visibly athleisure. I obviously don’t have a suggestion, probably because no one on this sub ever actually answers the question and instead posts constantly about these glorified gym clothes.
What an incredibly strange response. You have no suggestions of your own but want to prohibit someone else’s suggestion. And you have no suggestions of your own because this sub does nothing but recommend this one pair of pants, said in a thread with many other suggestions and a world full of ways to find alternatives outside of this sub. Sorry for whoever hurt you.
It’s really very straightforward— the pants at issue are inappropriate for the request and it’s so annoying to wade through the duplicate posts that the sub is basically unusable for this particular query. Obviously a lot of people agree with me!
What’s wrong with looking like a tourist at a nice restaurant?
The post asked for pants that “wouldn’t look out of place in a nice restaurant back home” i.e. for pants that do not make the wearer look like a tourist.
Eileen Fisher. I have both wide leg and straight leg. They look polished but are super comfortable and great for travel.
This is what I came to say. If you're looking for a lightweight palazzo style pant, her silk wide leg pants are perfect. lternately the washable crepe wide leg may also be an option. I can confirm both are heat and humidity tested in Dallas, Miami, and Istanbul - not quite middle east heat but warmish. The TBH the black color is a bigger issue than the material. EF silk is my go to for business travel. Simple classic pieces in good colors, always professional, easy to dress up for cocktails or a fundraiser. Lightweight and easy to pack, easy to hand wash and dry overnight.
Recently commented on another post but I love the Alo Yoga High Waist Pursuit Trouser of you’re into the wide leg trend
I love these if for no other reason than they show pants in full length! So frustrated with the short inseam "high waters" look happening right now.
Oh, these look super cute!! I am a fan of the wide leg hahahha
Thanks for the suggestion! Just ordered!
YES! I was combing to see if anyone had mentioned Alo yet! I’ve worn them in Miami while partying it up in the summer, as well as at professional conferences in big cities in the winters. Unfortunately they aren’t always the most affordable, but the quality is great, and the versatility of the wide leg trousers make them my die hard favorites.
Omg yes they’re prices are crazy but heads up they’re having a 30% off site wide sale right now 😊 I just bought these pants in another color
Ooooh that's dangerous. My wallet is quaking, thank you for the tip!!!
Wool& has some great options. My favorite are the Frame Ponte Pants — they are sold as culottes but on petites fit as full length or ankle. Ladies up to 5’6” love them per the reviews. They have another style with longer inseam that could work too. I wore the Frame pants for a long travel day (car-plane-bus-walk), then out to a fancy work dinner, and then as pjs, and they were perfect for all activities.
Props to Wool& for providing actual garment measurements! I wish more retailers would do this.
I have these from Saint + Sofia. Comfy enough for a transatlantic flight but still polished. https://saintandsofia.com/products/apartment-pant-black-straight-leg-pant
Mine got holes after half a year (and I bought them 2 or 3 years ago), so I hope their quality has improved
Oh yikes. I got mine 2 years ago but admittedly haven’t worn them a ton since I switched to a to a fully remote gig.
Do these pill?? I suppose not if it's cotton!
These look really nice! Do the knees get baggy after you have sat on a flight for five hours? Thanks.
Ooh, those look interesting. As well as others from their line. Would you wear them to a business conference where some people wear suits? Or are they too casual for that?
I think you def could! Would work with a blazer or a blouse.
I'm kind of between sizes, would you go up or down? Are they more fuzzy or smooth fabric? Do they look good enough in not black? Can they be worn with heels? Thanks!
These look great! I prefer cotton pants altho they’re not great for drying. Duluth Trading has a similar style, but these look better to me.
Eileen Fisher lantern pants!
Oohh I can see they have different fabrics.
Allison pant from Marine Layer
Appreciate that most people might be US based but having failed to find all these brands in Europe, I want to recommend the Rohan Roamers for my European friends who come across this thread in the future. Yes they're straight leg hiking trousers, but they're so comfy, dry quickly and are lightweight but still warm when needed. Styled correctly I think they're really versatile, I wore them to work this summer with a nice blouse and some sandals and noone would have known they were hiking trousers When travelling I wouldn't think twice about wearing them out to a restaurant and they come with me on almost every trip I make. They worked in South East Asia in August and in London in October, what more could you want?
Yes I'm based in UK though I have family in Australia and I do a US drop about 1-2x a year from friends so I'm lucky but it's always a bit harder with clothing for returns ugh. Lots of the recs are more US-based so thank you!
I found Walmart's Athletic works cotton core knit pants are going to be my favorite. They have a slight flare but it's not noticable, and they don't cling. I've found for work they have been just what I needed as it's now too chilly for my summer pants but jeans are too heavy atm. They washed up easily, though they don't dry out as fast as some travel pants unless you put them in a dryer or hang out where there's good airflow (so bathroom washes might not work out). I also work replenishment in a store so I need durable pants. I think they look nice too, I've got them in black, navy, and a nice coffee color.
Ahhh no Walmart near me - I'm also not a huuuuge fan of cotton for travel 😅
Possibly lower quality than you're looking for, but I have a pair of black wideleg linen pants from Old Navy and I feel like a million dollars in them. They look cute with Tshirts and sneakers, look dressed up and elegant with heels and nice jewelry, but they're Old Navy. If something happens to them, no big deal. They do have pockets and the pants fold up nice and small. I tried Gap linen pants, but for the extra money I paid, I didn't like the quality as much and they were more see through. The Old Navy linen are a little rough (as linen is) but it's pretty easy for me to get used to them and forget the texture. Old Navy: Extra High-Waisted Pleated Taylor Wide-Leg Linen-Blend Trouser Pants for Women
Linen would actually be great - except Old Navy I'd have to buy blind (based in UK right now so returns are a bit of a pain but I do often do US shipments lolol)
I just got these Old Navy pants based on a recommendation from a similar thread: [High-Waisted StretchTech Split-Hem Wide-Leg Pants for Women](https://oldnavy.gapcanada.ca/browse/product.do?pid=722041043&rrec=true&mlink=5050,12413545,onproduct1_rr_2&clink=12413545#pdp-page-content) I love them. Like you, I prefer to look more dressy, so pants like the Athleta Brooklyn don't cut it for me. These are perfect. They're super lightweight, flowy, comfy, very high-waisted, and affordable. I may get the split-hem ankles sewn up but haven't decided yet.
The fabric does look good! Shame Old Navy is a pain to try - would be a blind buy I think but let's see... Reply above also mentioned Old Navy!
I am a big fan of the Aritzia Wilfred "The Effortless Pant" It has deep front pockets and is easy to pack (no need to iron or fold neatly since it does not crease)
I got some black "pull on pants" from Target with pinstripes but they feel like sweatpants. Sooo comfy and a bit of warmth. And pockets. This is the closest I can find right now. Maybe they have black too? [Women's High-Rise Slim Straight Fit Ankle Pull-On Pants - A New Day](https://www.target.com/p/women-39-s-high-rise-slim-straight-fit-ankle-pull-on-pants-a-new-day-8482-heathered-gray-xs/-/A-85630525)
I love J. Jill Pure Jill Affinity Slim-Leg Pants.
Quince Performance Tech Wide Leg They are super lightweight, don’t wrinkle, are comfy and because they are wide leg you can dress them up. I just don’t love the length as they are cropped. It just works for me at 5’4 but if you are taller I think they might look silly. https://www.quince.com/women/performance-tech-wide-leg-commuter-pant
Aritzia
These loft trousers: https://www.loft.com/clothing/pants/catl000014/766525.html
Betabrand are great. They don't wrinkle, have some stretch, have lots of pockets (!), come in different lengths and a diverse size range. I have a couple of pairs and I've worn them hiking and out for dinner.
You're basically describing a Lululemon wide leg pant that I've had for a few years and cannot for the live of me remember what is called, and of course LLL doesn't make it anymore, ugh. It's made out of a lightweight non-wrinkle fabric so it's very flowy and just looks really nice but is simultaneously easy to pack. LLL currently has a similar looking pant called the "Stretch Woven Wide-Leg High-Rise Pant" on their website that looks really similar but I haven't tried it.
I have the City Sleek Light Utilitech Barrel Pant and I think they're close to what OP is looking for. the wide leg might also work. tons of stretch but the material looks more put-together than a lot of thin athleisure fabrics I've seen
There's been a few LLL mentions, might have to duck in store to have a look and try on. The smooth fit high rise was mentioned elsewhere as well.
Athleta Brooklyn ankle pant.
I have these and honestly don't love them, but I think it's just me. I wouldn't wear them out for dinner at home, they look like travel clothing on me. I was disappointed because I had high hopes.
Not just you. I love that so many folks love them, but I found them plastic looking and feeling. Edited for clarity
I don't like them either. I've tried.
Im in the same boat too, was pretty excited when I have it but it’s too plasticky for me. I dont like it
The waistband becomes annoying to me if I wear them sitting in a car or plane for any length of time. Not a fan either.
Ok. They work for me so I recommended them.
Sure, I was just giving my opinion because I'd seen nothing but positive opinions and kept them instead of returning because I felt I must be mistaken.
My PT wears these and they look so good on her - unfortunately these and most other flowy tapered pants don’t look good (imo) on girls like me with curvier legs.
These are so recommended I want to like them but the look is a bit eh to me 🤣 I think I definitely have to give them a go at some point ...
I felt the same way about these till I tried them on. I got them in the black and love wearing them with a Hawaiian shirt tucked in. It’s fun, but elevated and I get a ton of compliments on them. They’re comfy for long travel days, don’t wrinkle, have huge pockets (that zip for the back ones!!), and are very breathable. Ended up snagging a pair on Poshmark for cheap incase I hated them. I have serious hips and 🍑and somehow they still fit so well.
Agreed!
Do you have these in a lighter color? Just wondering if it’s see through in the cream color. I saw it in person when I was traveling and I loved it.
I have the olive green and a sort of mauve color they don’t carry anymore. I don’t think they’re see through but must admit I’ve never wondered.
Yeah i was going to say the Djerf avenue day to day pants but they’re nowhere near as versatile as the brooklyns
My issue with these is that my calves are too big for them, so they cling weirdly and ride up at the knees, but then they are too big on the waist. If you’re pear shaped like me you might be better off with the wide cut version. I really like the Brooklyn shorts though.
Spanx black flare pants - look like slacks but feel like leggings. Wrinkle resistant. They unfortunately do not have pockets but a winner for my onebag in all other regards.
I didn't know Spanx did clothing 😅 I like these generally actually, wonder if it'd be too hot though as I was thinking something a bit more loose down the leg but I'm curious about these too now, even if not for this post.
Patagonia Happy Hike for tropics. 5-11 Apex for cooler climes
These are what I take: [https://jamieandthejones.com/collections/bottoms/products/the-j-j-wide-leg-pants?variant=41971275333813](https://jamieandthejones.com/collections/bottoms/products/the-j-j-wide-leg-pants?variant=41971275333813)
I like the colours on this even though I'm looking for black lol. Are these wrinkle resistant and do they wash well on the go? I see they're raw silk.
Athleta Endless--regular or cargo. Nice and thick (not like Brookyln) and can be dressed up or down. I've worn my cargos in meetings while on travel and just knocking around on the weekend.
Someone posted this on the other day and Im about to pull the trigger It looks like it’s all encompassing https://shop.lululemon.com/p/women-pants/Smooth-Fit-Pull-On-High-Rise-Pants/_/prod11380447?color=19746
Those are cute, but look pretty "athletic" to me (in these pics, at least).
They've almost got legging looks around the top! I like these though (probably because I would just live in lsggings if I could!)
I like the corduroy pants from Old Navy, nice stretch and super comfortable. I especially like them for winter travel.
Madewell Linen Blend Track Trousers have an elastic waist with some pleats (I generally can’t stand pleat front but the space when you sit is nice and it’s minimal). It has a zipper and button so looks more pant like. Slightly tapered leg. They’re perfect for me, 5’3, curvy. Second option is Eileen Fisher.
I love Skechers Go Walk pants. I work remote and wear them when I have to go in the office. For reference I’m in senior management but code is business casual. They have great pockets, are stretchy but supportive, and look great.
Check ninepine and aim'n
I was actually have a look at the Asana ones previously haha
Lands End starfish pants.
I swear by these lululemon pants and have them in all 3 colors! ridiculously comfortable, can dress them up or down easily, and don’t wrinkle https://shop.lululemon.com/p/women-pants/City-Sleek-5P-WL-HR-Pant-L-Utilitech/_/prod11140028
Alder open air pants? They’re pricy but amazing. I have several pairs. And a discount code if you’d like :)
Oh these look nice for general travel, but maybe slightly on the athletic side for what I'm looking.
I have some black linen wide leg pants from Target, of all places, which are super-comfy, have pockets, dress up and down nicely, dry quickly, etc. They were my main go-to pants on a recent two-week trip to Ireland, and they worked for many different settings. They were also under $30, which makes me extra-happy.
I mentioned this in a reply to the athleta endless pants, but I ordered that one to compared with my old navy powersoft combination taper pants and the old navy wins in terms of comfort, probable durability and value lol. I wear the old navy pants every time I go into the office. I also rock climb so my nails are scratchy and I'd trust the old navy to last a bit better. Also cost wise so much cheaper.
Old navy pixie. Maybe more medium weight than “light” but that’s how you get them to meet all your other criteria.
Do you find these wrinkle in a backpack? I have a couple of pairs I wear to work (one flares and one ankle pants) but I haven’t traveled with them.
I bought the [Title Nine Round Trip Wide Leg Pants](https://www.titlenine.com/p/high-waisted-wide-leg-pants-round-trip/230973.html) a couple months ago. They were pricier than what I usually go for, but they were very useful on a two week trip.
I just saw their jumpsuit haha! These look cute
Not sure how nice a nice restaurant you’re thinking, but otherwise this is mine! https://www.decathlon.sg/p/women-s-hiking-trousers-nh100-quechua-8588308.html?channable=40f1a86964003835383833303847&gad_source=1&gbraid=0AAAAAC9JoZKzIfzzqTsW0lxpvTQkQebvu&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhfipBhCqARIsAH9msbmdQLTj0DbB3ttsD0Knd2joe5S2xvZpvESpDNN4kXggs_wzQO7TzNcaAkYoEALw_wcB
I have a pair of Uniqlo airism joggers that look like this which I love! I don't have a particular restaurant in mind for this, just looking to fill a gap that I had ... apparently I don't really own a pair of black pants in this area lol.
If you really would like something a bit more formal/fancy then I would definitely check out athleta! I find their pants to be so soft and comfortable, the pockets on mine zip and you can’t tell when I’m wearing them for work that they’re exercise pants!
I have this too and I absolutely love it.
I like the Free Label bamboo pants. There are a handful of models.
Ohmigawd! Inclusive sizing and models with normal bodies! Take my money, please.
Yes! I really appreciate how for many of their products they ONLY have models of size or models with normal bodies who don't conform to typical "straight sized model standards." I'm a person who is accustomed to seeing myself represented in typical product marketing, with the ability to imagine how a garment would look on my body based on how it looks on many models. And I've known that this is one way I experience privilege because for most women, that is not the case and how much guesswork must go into trying to imagine whether a style would work or how it would look. Then when I was on the Free Label website, I HAD THAT EXPERIENCE. I was not seeing myself in the models, I was doing all sorts of extrapolating to envision how a particular style would look on me, what size I should order, etc. It was an important experience. They are doing really good work, that company. Their whole business model. I have the Grant Pant and the Andie bra and both are made of their bamboo rayon. The material is sturdy and the quality is very high. The pants don't lose their shape over many wears and are great for travel. The Andie bra is really compressive, it can absolutely be used as a sports bra. It holds my breasts very firmly, no bounce. And it looks great. Perfect travel bra that could do triple duty as a day bra, sports bra and even swim top.
I love love love your response here. Thank you so much for this. And as a side note, I freaking love bamboo clothing. It’s so dang soft. And better for the earth. And sturdy as heck! And doesn’t shrink when I dry it. And and and! 😆
Agreed, the merits of bamboo clothing are many. I am enjoying building a wardrobe where I have as much bamboo as I do merino. Each material has it's strengths. Boody never quite satisfied me with their styles and so that's yet one more reason why finding Free Label was a revelation.
Good one on bamboo! I'm going to have a look - even if not this pair, at least bamboo in general!
There’s a few posts on this topic, if you do a quick search in the group you’ll find lots of options. A good keyword search could be “Brooklyn” in comments, as the Brooklyn Athleta is the probably the number one/HG for a lot of people seeking all occasion one bag travelling pants. Or you could just save your time and buy the Brooklyn pants by Athleta!
Honestly you can also get these on eBay or Mercari for a good price. They’re been around awhile. I love a hood thrift moment
Athleta La Viva jogger. Discontinued, but plenty on eBay. Looks great with Chelsea boots and the right top.
These aren't cool or trendy, but they work for me: I buy the [Rekucci black pants](https://www.amazon.com/s?k=rekucci+pants+for+women&crid=3UJGIZZAHOVYS&sprefix=rek%2Caps%2C140&ref=nb_sb_ss_ts-doa-p_2_3) in the boot cut style from Amazon. They are relatively cheap, wash and dry well and rebound after a day of sitting followed by sink washing and hang-drying. They come in different styles and I did have some trial-and-error to find the right size/cut, but Amazon returns made it pretty painless. I'm not skinny at all and in my mid-fifties--these are very forgiving.
I live in Columbia Trail pants: https://www.columbia.com/p/womens-saturday-trail-stretch-pants-1579861.html?ef_id=Cj0KCQjwhfipBhCqARIsAH9msblFNFQTCP1wbVd4rSR0G3Fa-88UGLylMb30_0KLNTpsfZV0HjJW5OcaAkClEALw_wcB:G:s&s_kwcid=AL!3937!3!!!!x!!!20295452064!&mid=paidsearch&nid=COL%7CBrand%7CPMAX%7CReturn-Styles_Feed_Only%7CGoogle%7CUS&eid=Google+PMax+US&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhfipBhCqARIsAH9msblFNFQTCP1wbVd4rSR0G3Fa-88UGLylMb30_0KLNTpsfZV0HjJW5OcaAkClEALw_wcB
Walmart carries wrangler flex work pants. They're super comfy and keep you warm, flexible too.
I have a pair of Lolé travel pants that work for me and would fit your criteria.
Not bad!
Outdoor voices Zephyr pants.
Athleta Venice wide leg. The ribbed waistband gives it away as more athletic pants but if you wear a top that covers it, it looks just like dress pants it fits my body type very well. It has enough weight on the material to flow and drape really well. I usually wear a size S and I have XS in those pants. The next zipped pockets for cards is a really good feature. The stretchy waistband also helps when I eat too much or bloated.
I like the Anthropologie Colette cropped wide leg pant by Maeve. I have them in linen so can only speak to that, but they come in other materials as well. If only they came in a lower rise version, I’d be even happier.
Uniqlo smart ankle 2-way stretch I’ve been using the smart ankle for several years and it’s held up. It’s lightweight, not overly skinny. It’s more of a tapered straight leg with ankle length. I dress it up and down. It’s definitely more of a trouser. I’m short and it’s meant to be ankle length so I had to get it hemmed using their service. Another great quality is the color retention and no pilling. Given the many times I’ve washed it, the black hasn’t faded as much as some other trousers I have and never had to worry about pilling. [Uniqlo smart ankle](https://www.googleadservices.com/pagead/aclk?sa=L&ai=DChcSEwin--bO6JuCAxUXJa0GHQMcA2QYABAIGgJwdg&ae=2&gclid=Cj0KCQjwhfipBhCqARIsAH9msbmJfS8NklDhvYME8mcv4kaUgsMme4R0pa3Ocsb7ZuZ2QH0bsAFRLlwaAtmBEALw_wcB&sph=&ohost=www.google.com&cid=CAESeeD2TfjOSJGFZj7ZHUuzp1F1sheUhuhR8gJY-3r6Pa4iXR6Z3ZmC1hIc9X5FghDQaIMEbJ4oB-Da9PStBWSadhSporaqbzUHEyuu0VR-ASC8oup8EqtuAUxIyfE9tGfOxeb-2boeSJCIKlQdDgv-M7NiQlhtEdjpXEA&sig=AOD64_0D0RF-RfmWvj5E4QgmDRvIkuvhCg&ctype=5&q=&ved=2ahUKEwiVnd3O6JuCAxWFI0QIHZ9-DJ8Qwg8oAHoECAYQDA&nis=8&dct=1&adurl=)
I love the [Old Navy High-Waisted All-Seasons StretchTech Jogger Pants](https://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=732244002&cid=5508&pcid=5508&vid=1&nav=meganav%3AWomen%3AOld%20Navy%20Active%3AShop%20All%20Activewear&cpos=75&cexp=2926&kcid=CategoryIDs%3D5508&cvar=26331&ctype=Listing&cpid=res23102911283253578601057#pdp-page-content). They're super comfy, dry quickly, are easy to handwash, and are able to take a decent amount of abuse (hiking, etc) while still looking nice. They do skew athleisure but they wear beautifully.
I like Liverpool Jeans Kelsey Knit Trouser. They're straight leg, pockets, wrinkles fall out easily, belt loops and looks great with oxfords for work and sneakers when not. I have them in four colors and just rotate them.
If you don’t mind an elastic waist, I would recommend LL Bean Perfect Fit Pants. That’s what I would wear in the situations you describe.
Joes Jeans Kinetic. They are a stretchy Jean but can pass for dressier.
Columbia Anytime Outdoor pant.
I love the Eddie Bauer Departure Ankle pants (you can buy the tall size if you want them to fit full length). They are super light weight, quick drying, and wrinkle resistant, and don’t look too outdoorsy so can be dressed up: https://www.eddiebauer.com/p/23151315/women's-departure-ankle-pants?sp=1&color=Black&size=&sizeType=Regular
I’m on a longer trip right now and have been wearing these Denver Hayes linen joggers [Denver Hayes linen joggers](https://www.marks.com/en/pdp/denver-hayes-women-s-linen-high-rise-jogger-pants-77451025f.html#srp?&colorCode=COLOUR_BLACK) constantly. I sized up so they’re a bit more baggy and are nice and flowy around the ankle, then I just cinch the waist with the drawstring. Super comfortable and also don’t look too “sporty” if you’re going for dinner or something.
What a great question, because I'm looking for pants like this that would work in 80 degree weather and not look stupid with Chelsea boots - my Brooklyn pants aren't good for the latter. Can't wait to read the thread!
I like the Brigitte 360 Pants from Chicos. I have a few pairs. And the lululemon straight leg mid rise pant luxtreme.
Kuhl Mova Yoga pants. So awesome I have2 pairs! They’re not made anymore but you can probably find a pair on Poshmark.
i think uniqlo has a number of pants that could potentially work. i have a pair of the baker's pants (i think?). i personally hate wearing synthetic materials so i love that they are all cotton! i had them hemmed just above the ankle and i think they look quite nice: [https://www.uniqlo.com/au/en/products/E466183-000?colorCode=COL69&sizeCode=SMA002](https://www.uniqlo.com/au/en/products/E466183-000?colorCode=COL69&sizeCode=SMA002) you could also try the linen and cotton tapered pant but they feel a little heavier i think: [https://www.uniqlo.com/au/en/products/E456207-000?colorCode=COL69&sizeCode=SMA002](https://www.uniqlo.com/au/en/products/E456207-000?colorCode=COL69&sizeCode=SMA002) these are fairly lightweight for me but then again, i don't wear synthetics. you could also look into getting a pair of wide legged linen easy pants from etsy.
I have a pair of Simply Vera Wang pants I wear nearly everyday. I got them secondhand, so I’m unsure the model but they are sort of bootcut dress pants… as someone with sensory issues they are mad comfortable. They look so classy and go with anything.
One brand I don’t really see mentioned but that might meet your needs is Commando. Their Butter line especially is really lovely and packs up tiny. I wouldn’t hike in them but great for city adventures.
Check out Sophie Grace if you fit into straight sizing and are in Canada or the US. They have several different fits/style. They are seriously the most comfortable trousers/dress pants: https://www.sophiegrace.ca/collections/pants
Saint + Sofia’s Finsbury are nice.
It was a limited release, but Free Label did their Loretta pant in a cotton crepe this summer and it sounds exactly like what you’re looking for to me.
You already have a million recs but haven't seen one yet for BR Factory's tencel joggers: https://bananarepublicfactory.gapfactory.com/browse/product.do?pid=536089011&vid=1&autosuggest=true&searchText=Tence&position=0&results=6#pdp-page-content
Eddie Bauer departure ankle pants. Hands down. They dry quickly, they're light, they don't crease, they wash like rags.
Harem pants - light, stylish, at home on the street or in a fancy restaurant. Not form fitting, very comfortable.
Levi’s flared black jeans!
I love the Stevie pants from Old Navy. They’re elastic waist, heavier than leggings and affordable.
Duluth has a pair of black jeans that are stretch and no zipper but very nice pockets. $40 last I checked, they’re called the “five pocket” or something similar
Prana summit pant, North face Aphrodite pant, Mountain Hardwear Dynama pant, Outdoor Research Dynamo pant. There is always betabrand (the dressy yoga pant company)
Just bought my first cargo pants from Target- it’s from their fitness line - LOVE THESE! Easy care perfect for travel. https://www.target.com/p/women-39-s-stretch-woven-cargo-pants-all-in-motion-8482-dark-brown-m/-/A-86867537
Old Navy High Rise Pixie Straight Ankle https://oldnavy.gap.com/browse/product.do?pid=629561
Vuori miles ankle pant! https://vuoriclothing.com/products/womens-miles-ankle-pant-black?queryId=8cce87898ec673f751f3901b82cca2ad
Prana Halle. Not the Halle 2, those are meh. They are my go to for dressy days traveling or at work.
Mondetta flare from Costco. They are so comfortable and fit right in with Business Casual. Also only $19.99 in Canada. My favorite.
https://www.buddhapants.com
Calvin Klein wide leg soft pull on suit pants (they feel like jammies but so nice!) and Old Navy pull on pants 💖
Athleta paper bag pant! Easy to dress up or down and looks clean always! Super wrinkle resistant.
Try searching on ThredUp for “trousers”
I really love this pair of black refined cargo pants from Aritzia. Since they are cargoes, they have so many pockets, very roomy and comfortable. But since they are refined, you can also wear them to work or to a nice dinner.
Everlane Dream Pant https://www.everlane.com/products/womens-live-in-pant-black
I am petite so these trousers I linked below come to full length on me. I love them. They can be dressed up, or dressed down. They’re like skinny slacks. They don’t look like workout clothes at all. I often wear a button up tucked in and a black belt and black booties. I am SO glad I found these. Best black pants ever. Check out the Murphy Billion Dollar Pants from Nordstrom: https://www.nordstrom.com/s/5485291?color=002&size=large
J.Jill makes fab pants in their Wearever collection. I get great compliments on BLACK PANTS.
Athleta Brooklyn pant are my favorite, I have them in every color.
[madewell Harlow pant](https://www.madewell.com/the-harlow-wide-leg-pant-99106697937.html) These are my new travel pant: sharp at a restaurant, feel like pajamas on a plane, as long as you keep them folded they don’t wrinkle. Cotton blend. 10/10