Skip the Jeans—These “Outdated” Pants Make Your Boots, Loafers, and Flats Appear Extra Stylish This Winter

      Fashion wouldn't be complete without a new significant trend making its debut at the end of the year. Following Matthieu Blazy’s impressive Métiers d'art 2026 show for Chanel, Demna has presented his second collection for Gucci, advocating for the comeback of a defining silhouette: cigarette trousers. By reinterpreting the Italian label’s aesthetics through a time-bending perspective, the creative director unveiled a look book envisioning a “show that never happened,” as noted in a press release. Yet, from the first sight of Alex Consani in a bubblegum pink suit for the opening look, it was apparent that while this precise presentation did not take place, it closely resembles the sleek cuts and iconic designs that Tom Ford popularized during his reign in the ‘90s.

      To understand the Texan-born multi-talented creator is to be familiar with his iconic works—form-fitting silk tops that reveal the navel, worn by stars like Amber Valetta and Madonna, a burgundy velvet suit donned by Gwyneth Paltrow, and campaigns that could only be described as sensual. Among all these remarkable silhouettes in his fashion lexicon, the unassuming cigarette trouser has remained largely overlooked—until now. For those unfamiliar, cigarette trousers describe a specific slim-fit design that runs straight down the leg, resembling something from a pack of Marlboro Reds. The style typically ends right at the ankle, contrasting sharply with the relaxed and flowing bottoms like barrel-leg trousers and wide-leg pants that have dominated recent trends.

      This context sets the stage for the resurgence of cigarette trousers. Recent months have seen a renewed fascination with fashion trends from the 2010s, encompassing items like the Alexander McQueen skull scarf, Isabel Marant wedge trainers, and the Celine New Luggage. Although cigarette trousers may date back a bit further, their sleek silhouette is perfectly suited for the indie sleaze revival and the slightly grungy aesthetic currently trending.

      Wearing cigarette trousers doesn't have to mean emulating a young Mary-Kate Olsen with her worn-out Birkin bag. In fact, Hailey Bieber has been subtly leading the charge for the revival of this style with her polished and straightforward approach to fashion. During a series of promotional appearances in New York for Rhode back in September, the billionaire opted for glossy cigarette trousers, a layered long-sleeved shirt featuring a built-in tank from The Row, and accessories from Phoebe Philo.

      Capping off her look with a large iced latte, it demonstrated that the style's name and connotations should not be daunting. To further underscore this, I've compiled a selection of the best cigarette trousers currently available for purchase, ranging from chic high-street options from H&M to luxurious versions worth investing in. Not only do they pair wonderfully with your kitten-heeled boots, gathered loafers, and elegant flats, but they will give you a reason to step into the new year in style. (And that's a quality I’ll gladly embrace.)

      **Shop the Cigarette Trouser Trend:**

      With Nothing Underneath

      Regent Cigarette Trouser

      Everything about this pair, from the suiting fabric to the captivating editorial imagery, makes it a compelling choice.

      Sezane

      Gustavo Trousers - Black - Sézane

      Très chic, as the Parisians would say.

      COS

      Slim-Leg Cropped Trousers

      COS excels at modern tailoring, ensuring these proportions are just right.

      M&S

      Cotton Rich Straight Leg Ankle Grazer Trousers

      For a well-curated wardrobe on a budget, don’t overlook M&S.

      The Row

      Hiram Wool Straight Pants

      Approved by the Olsen twins, did you know?

      Toteme

      Low-Rise Slim Pants

      CALVIN KLEIN COLLECTION

      Lucia Wool Straight-Leg Pants

      KHAITE

      Danielle High-Rise Slim-Leg Jeans