The Only 5 Versatile Pants You Need in Your Wardrobe, According to a Fashion Editor

This may be predictable, but I’m starting this list off strong with a classic pair of jeans. They’re a staple in any capsule wardrobe because they’re multifaceted—they can simultaneously be casual and fancy, demure and sexy. It’s quite astonishing what good denim can do. When searching for the best jeans, make sure you pay attention to the material. I prefer a 100 percent cotton make for a rigid feel and vintage look, but jeans that have a blend with a small amount of elastane will hug your frame and feel the most comfortable, thanks to that bit of stretch. It’s subjective, though I suggest that you opt for a something classic that won’t go out of style within a year or so. In other words, you might want to consider buying a traditional straight-leg jean in a medium to dark blue wash before you splurge on some trendy barrel jeans.

OK, hear me out: Work pants are no longer reserved strictly for the office. In 2024, the office siren has transcended the corporate world into street style, making it not only acceptable but also trendy to wear dress pants after hours. (I don’t know about you, but my denim can use a break.) For a foolproof approach, look to the pros: Katie Holmes is the queen of styling work trousers for the weekend. She often opts for straight- or wide-leg trousers with a relaxed silhouette and pleats in neutral tones. This allows you to pair them with any footwear, from heels to boots to sneakers, while always looking polished with a crisp white T-shirt. And remember, your choice of jacket can transform the entire outfit, whether you go for a classic denim jacket or an edgy moto style.

Don’t be afraid to try out cargo pants, ladies. Over the last few years, the utilitarian style has gained quite a bit of traction in the fashion world, proving that it’s a solid versatile pant to own. In fact, cargo pants are an easy way to elevate your look with little effort, as they do much of the work for you. You see, the ample pockets provide visual interest in addition to being functional, plus lots of cargo pants feature adjustable hems for multiple ways to wear them.

Are they workout clothes or are they pants? Well, I’d argue that this ambiguity is what makes black leggings so versatile. One day, you can wear them to a yoga class, the next while running errands and then as a base under an oversize sweater and knee-high boots. When shopping for the perfect pair of black leggings, there are a few factors to consider. First and foremost, prioritize comfort—look for a fabric blend that offers quality and stretch, as well as durability and longevity. For a sleek silhouette, opt for seamless finishes and save your leggings with pockets for the gym. Lastly, pay attention to the fit of the waistband to find your ideal style.

Don’t underestimate sweatpants, people. When I want to prioritize comfort above all else, often, I’ll dress up a pair of sweatpants. They’re cozy, soft and loose-fitting, which sure as heck beats feeling like a stuffed sausage in your standing-only jeans (aka, your pants that look unbelievable on but feel beyond uncomfortable and impossible to sit in). Where sweatpants are involved, I find that tapered hems offer a bit of edginess when worn with heels or sneakers, while a straight- or wide-leg silhouette will look more streamlined and elongating. One way I avoid looking like I just left the house in my pajamas is by wearing a matching sweatshirt for a monochrome moment, then dressing it up with accessories and layering a coat on top. It’s refined yet effective.