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25 January 2024

Exposed Magazine

Trousers are often an underrated wardrobe addition. In an age when so many people opt for jeans as their go-to lower-half wear, the style possibilities of trousers are often left on the shelf.

And make no mistake: there are plenty of possibilities when it comes to trousers. Some great modern styles are worth checking out, but consider vintage trousers for an extra exciting look. Many of us are looking to the past for guidance in navigating this complex modern world, which extends to how we dress. Retro trousers come in a wide variety of shapes and styles and can be worn as an exclusively nostalgia look or to give a more modern style a vintage twist.

In this post, we’ll run through some of the hottest retro trouser trends for 2024 — and, given how timeless many of these looks are, probably many years beyond that.

Flared Trousers

It felt like skinny, tight-fitting jeans had won the ever-lasting battle of the world’s preferred jean cut for years. But in 2024, we anticipate a return to an old favourite — the flared, bell-bottomed jeans that were such a hit back in the 1970s. They’re back in favour after a longer-than-expected absence, partly because they’re so different from your standard jeans and partly because they offer something fresh. Flared trousers put the weight of the outfit on the bottom half, creating a balanced look.

You can pair flared trousers with a tight-fitting or tucked-in top or bring the grunge look back by wearing a hoodie.

Pairing Colourful Trousers

The 2010s were marked by neutral tones, especially when it came to trousers. They were meant to be understated, functioning as a vehicle to let the top half of the body do the work. But we’re seeing a return to the colourful trousers that you’d associate with the late 70s and early 80s.

They work well on multiple levels. For one thing, they’re simply more attention-grabbing and fun, exuding a confidence that turns heads. If you want to add some colourful trousers to your wardrobe, we recommend pairing them with more neutral tops. It’ll help to balance things out. Though if you’re wearing colourful trousers for a night out, feel free to add a colourful top too — especially if it’s a disco party.

Bringing the Pinstripe Trousers Back

Pinstripe trousers have been around for a long time. They were first worn back in the 19th century by London’s bankers, and though their popularity has ebbed and flowed, it’s never really disappeared. They’re a good addition to your wardrobe because they can work in so many different ways. Paired correctly, they’ll look right home in a professional environment, or you can wear them to slightly more formal events or when you just want to dress up.

You can wear pinstripe trousers with a shirt and tie for the office or a casual shirt and boots for social occasions. If you want to keep things extra simple, a fitted white T-shirt and trainers can provide a clean, appropriately smart look.

Get the Tartan Look

Tartan trousers really do stand out from the crowd, and you don’t have to be Scottish to pull them off. All you need is a few tips on how to wear them properly. The most important aspect will be your shoes. It’s best to keep things classy with some black shoes; trainers will not suffice, no matter how comfortable they may be. If you’re going for the classy look, then pair them with a Highland jacket. Otherwise, simply play around with what you already have in your wardrobe and see what works.

Tweed Trousers: Country, Business, and Casual

Tweed trousers get the thumbs up because they’re comfortable, classic, and really help to take the outfit to the next level. Plus, they’re extremely versatile. You can pair your tweed trousers with a blazer for a sophisticated look. If you’re looking for a more casual autumn/winter style, then a big woolly jumper and overcoat. Both boots and trainers will work with that look.

Sta Prest Trousers: The Swinging 60’s Are Back

Sta prest trousers, a favourite of 60’s mod culture, are back in fashion. You can evoke the memory of the swinging sixties by wearing a button-down shirt and boots. If you’re looking to wear your sta prest trousers without leaning too heavily into mod culture, you can wear them with a cardigan or polo shirt, depending on the weather.