What makes a wardrobe classic a success? Of course, there’s the fit and the fabric – real hero designs are cut with precision and crafted to last – but largely, a piece’s value is in the eye of the wearer. One woman’s favourite pair of jeans will rarely be her friend’s perfect fit: a flawless black blazer for one may be a misfire for another.
So, when we come across a staple fashion piece that multiple members of the Bazaar team have invested in, we know we’ve found something special. This season, a particular pair of trousers has made it into the wardrobes of not two, but three editors: a feat few fashion essentials achieve.
The hero in question is the Theory Double Pleat Pant: a classic black wide-leg trouser that ticks every box. Theory has long been a brand we turn to for brilliant work-to-weekend essentials, but these precisely cut trousers really raise the bar, proving both satisfyingly comfortable and effortlessly chic, whether dressed down with loafers or elevated with evening-ready stilettos. Made from heavy crepe, the quality is immediately apparent, while the weight means they hang neatly and flow with every stride (something many affordable fashion brands don’t consider today).
Here, see how the Bazaar team are styling theirs this summer.
Roberta Schroeder, Senior Ecommerce Editor
I’m extremely fussy when it comes to wardrobe basics: I’ve been known to spend entire weekends looking for past-season pieces I missed out on, or hours in high-street changing rooms hunting down the perfect white tee (I did actually find that one: it’s the Arket Heavyweight T-Shirt).
As a result of my studious shopping, I think I’m pretty good at locating the best wardrobe classics: Toteme wins the black blazer game, while DL1961 has made a note-perfect barrel-leg jean. Slip dresses? Silk Laundry, every time. But the piece that has long evaded me is that perfect pair of wide-leg black trousers: roomy enough in the leg to look nonchalantly cool (not corporate) and high enough on the waist to work with a tucked-in tee.
Trust me: these Theory trousers are The One. On my 5 ft 2 frame, they sit high on the waist and flow into legs that are just wide enough (you can easily hide a heel beneath the hems, but you won’t trip over on the stairs). I’ve worn them with just-about everything, from simple staples – a cashmere jumper, a black vest – to more extravagant pieces, such as a cropped Prada shirt and Marine Serre’s kaleidoscopic tops. And of course, they’re a perfect match for Toteme’s flawless blazers, which I also urge you to try.
Amy de Klerk, Fashion Features Editor
Finding trousers that flatter my frame has never been straightforward. Although I am petite, I have curvy hips and so have really struggled over the years to find tailored trousers that suit me. Often, they will cling to my hips or, if too oversized, will drown my frame. With these trousers, Theory has nailed that relaxed, loose fit, and because they sit at exactly the right point on my waist, they also help to elongate my legs. They are, without a doubt, the most flattering trousers I have ever owned.
And, they are versatile. There is something about the double pleat and the loose fit of the trouser that give them a super-relaxed feel, ideal for being able to dress them up or down (which is not always the case with a black tailored trouser – they can often feel resigned to workwear only).
Over the past few months, I have worn them with trainers for a flight, but I have also styled them with my sparkly Stine Goya mesh ballet flats for an evening out, Prada loafers for the office and my By Far heeled sandals for dinner.
I think the fit looks great with slightly cropped tops because they don’t sit too low on the waist (I’ve worn them with this Loewe tank) but they are also great with an oversized T-shirt tucked in or styled with a cardigan for the office. A chic button-up shirt (try this style from Reformation) would also look great for work or the weekend, just change up your shoes and pile on the gold jewellery, always great for elevating a capsule look.
Sarah Karmali, Multiplatform Director
Is there anything more versatile than a good pair of tailored trousers? Aside from denim, you’d be hard-pushed to find anything that gets more cost-per-wear in my wardrobe. I’ve always preferred styling separates to wearing dresses – I find it more straightforward, somehow – and for those days when jeans just won’t do, I will reach for a pair of trousers; and this pair from Theory is my go-to right now.
Smart enough for any work meeting but also pleasingly comfortable, I’ll wear mine with a pair of trainers to commute in and then switch for heels once I’m in the office (I personally prefer the look of a pointed toe). I’ll often wear the trousers with a plain white T-shirt, or if I pair with with a classic silky top – my one pictured is from Mango – it makes for an excellent (and easy) evening outfit. Just simply add a chic bag, like this DeMellier one, and a chunky earring, and I’m good to go. I once interviewed House of the Dragon star Olivia Cooke and she told me that her top fashion tip was: “If in doubt, wear all black”. She wasn’t wrong; sometimes the simplest looks are the most effective.
