Wardrobe Basics: 10 Types Of Pants Every Woman Must Have In Their Closet

As the name suggests, straight-leg trousers or pants feature a stream-lined straight cut from the waistline till the hem. They aren't mean to stick to your legs and have enough room to make you feel (and look) at ease, unlike skinny pants. These trousers flatter most body types and are a must-have if you are looking for a pair of trousers that will never go out of style! A popular type of straight-leg pants are cigarette trousers that are well-loved among everyone for the illusion of a flattened stomach because of the wide-waist band and fitted silhouette at the thighs.

Our saviour for the summers, culottes are a type of flared pants that cut off right below the knees and above the ankles. As they are supposed to be flared, the hem is wider, which make this type of pants perfect for wearing on a hot summer day when you want to wear something a bit more breathable yet stylish. They pair well with most fitted tops, blouses and shirts since they offset the loose silhouette of the culottes. Opt for pants that come in a stiff fabric for a more formal look or go the breezy way with a pair in a soft, flowy fabric that'll also give you the illusion of looking taller. You can also always play with different colours and prints in case you want to add a burst of colour to your looks!

Another type of flared pants; the key difference between culottes and palazzos is that while culottes are cut-off above the ankles, palazzos are much longer. Palazzos are long, fuller, dressier and often made of flowing fabrics like silk or georgette to lend it that slightly laidback breezy feel. You can always opt for a cropped top or bralette for a chic look too. 

Classic, sleek and probably (one of the most comfortable types of pants for women) leggings are the perfect addition to anyone's wardrobe for everyday wear. They are made with stretchy, comfortable, and breathable materials and a simple design. Opt for the ones in solid colours for formal outings or even everyday workwear or, get the activewear ones mixed with lycra for workouts since they are super flexible and perfect for high-intensity activities.

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Denims are a no-brainer because they match with literally anything. As far as colours are concerned, a classic washed blue shall always remain a safe especially when you want to play along the lines of casual. But, the only point that requires attention as far as buying denim jeans are concerned is the fit, so you would want to try different ones — be it a skinny, straight fit, boot cut, wide legged or flared. Denims are that one pair of pants that remain unaffected by trends and since the material's able to endure years of wear — a reliable addition to one's wardrobe.

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For dinner nights and boardroom meetings, nothing beats the combination of a button-down shirt and a pair of well-fitted tailored formal trousers. They are usually slim, ankle-length trousers and do a fabulous job from transitioning from workwear to formal outings. Go for a slightly less fitted silhouette in case you don't like slim-fitted trousers. Style them with a satin shirt or one with flap back pockets if the vibe is semi-casual.

Honestly, no one can do without a comfortable and cosy pair of sweatpants or joggers. Since jammies are your besties and the most ideal pair for your grocery and casual coffee runs, it's absolutely essential that you stock up on cute ones. If you ask us, we can basically live in our joggers and try dressing them up in case we plan to step out with a corset top or a stylised bodysuit.

Victoria Beckham has made us all fall in love with baggy high-waisted trousers all over again. Of course, you can go for a slim-fit pair if baggy trousers tend to make you look drowned in fabric. The point is to go for a high-waisted pair that cinches in your waist and shows off your curves for a more dressy look. Wear them with any top you like and a pair of heels for a sophisticated night around town!

With flared pants becoming all the rage in the past few years, thanks to trends like old money aesthetic and minimalist fashion taking over our fashion choices, you definitely need a pair of each type in your closet! Wide leg trousers features a leg that flares out widely at the waist and remains wide all the way down to the ankle. It's a great choice for the summers too. 

Thanks to Y2K making a comeback in the past few years, cargos have become the coolest type of pants to own if you dig the streetwear dressing vibes. They look super nice on all body types — be it with fitted hems that graze above the ankles or straight fit ones that are slightly longer and are supposed to be worn with heeled shoes. Additionally, who wouldn’t want an extra pair of pockets in their pants?