WHERE — New York, London and Paris
PHOTOGRAPHY —  Sam Flaherty

Finding the perfect pair of trousers is like a sartorial miracle. But the search for the elusive pair of leg-lengthening, butt-hugging trousers ends now. Where to get your hands on the most flattering pants, on any budget.

A good pair of pants is like your favourite restaurant; reliable, easy, and even wheen you order the same thing time after time it never gets old. And yet, given the lanky proportions of most fit models, it can often be a borderline miracle for us mere mortals to find trousers that fit. And by fit, I mean fit perfectly.

INDEPENDENT DESIGNERS

KITRI STUDIO

Kitri have recently become masters of their domain; unique separates that you won’t see on every man and his dog, that don’t cost the earth. I live in my Kitri cropped flares.

STUDIO NICHOLSON

Studio Nicholson has been one of my true, all-time favourite brands since day one; wearing her pieces always makes me feel a whole lot cooler than I really am. With a laid-back, unisex approach, Nick’s focus is on genuinely intelligent tailored and the most beautiful fabrications that will ensure you pull out her pieces year after year. Plus her man-style pants truly are the best.

Wearing: Moschino sunglasses, Kitri Studio Jacket and pants, Mango boots and Boy Boutique bag

Wearing: Joseph coat, turtleneck and trousers, Roger Vivier bag and Tibi heels

Wearing: Helmut Lang knit, MSGM trousers, Charles & Keith bag and Manolo Blahnik suede heels

ON THE HIGH STREET

COS

In the world of fast-fashion, few high street retailers focus on classic cuts and durable fabrics that will last season after season. COS, is one of these places. They know the power of great tailoring, and it’s not just reserved for mens suiting. If you’re looking for a classic trousers with a cool sensibility, COS is your place.

UNIQLO

Not only do Uniqlo cater to more conservative budgets, their winter separates (inc their trousers and knitwear) have enough cool-factor to revival even the hippest designer. Keep an eye out for their UniqloU collections, that’s where the magic happens.

LUXE LABELS (WITHOUT THE HEFTY PRICE TAG)

SEA NY

Given that I have the same cropped pair of trousers, in three different fabrics (which I’ve bought across 3 seasons), I think it’s safe to say SEA NY make the kind of trousers I like to wear. When I want to feel tall (despite being 5’3), with long legs (I don’t), SEA NY is my go-to.

MSGM

When you want to have fun, and perhaps even make a statement with your pants, MSGM has your back. Flattering cuts to elongate the leg in a host of unexpected fabrics and prints that’ll amp up even the most simple slouchy white tee.

JOSEPH

For beautifully made trousers with a Celine-esque approach (minus the price tag), Joseph deliver carefully constructed pieces that will always make you feel polished and put together.

Wearing: Prada sunglasses, Hanes tee, SEA cuffed trousers, Carolina Santo Domingo bag and Manolo Blahnik heels

Wearing: Givenchy sunglasses, Uniqlo U denim jacket and trousers, Charles & Keith boots