As Comfortable as Leggings, As Stylish as Jeans—The Trouser Trend That Will Be Popular This Summer

      Just a few days after demonstrating that a blushing bride-to-be doesn't have to dive into a full wardrobe of soft whites and silken ivories, Zoë Kravitz has once again reaffirmed her status as the queen of cool when it comes to flaunting her new fiancé attire. Ask anyone who has recently been proposed to, and they'll express the immediate thrill of curating a collection of sheer cream skirts and delicate vanilla flats to reflect their new relationship status. However, the situation appeared to be quite different for Kravitz, as her latest appearance illustrated that receiving a stunning engagement ring doesn't necessitate a shift in personal style. And considering her closet already features luxurious basics from The Row, slinky Saint Laurent slip dresses, and unique demi-couture coats from Conner Ives, there's little reason for her to change things up.

      As an embodiment of effortless sophistication and casual elegance, Kravitz fully embraced these qualities during her stroll through Manhattan. In her second public appearance since announcing her engagement to musician Harry Styles, the actress braved the chilly New York climate, donning a fur-trimmed suede coat reminiscent of Penny Lane, beloved slip-on Canal loafers from the Olsen Twins, and, as the highlight of her outfit, a pair of trendy balloon trousers. Once a staple of '60s sitcoms and '80s hip-hop culture, this voluminous trend has quickly become one of the most sought-after trouser styles of 2026. Given Kravitz's endorsement, it's no surprise that this silhouette is expected to gain even more popularity as summer approaches. Considering that balloon trousers first re-emerged on Alaïa's spring/summer 2025 runway, it's clear that this style is the transitional trouser trend of the moment.

      For sunny days spent outdoors, we prefer our pants to be loose, poised, and polished, and this anti-jeans trend delivers on all fronts. Even better, it's becoming a favorite among It girls, with Iris Law spotted in the style during a visit to a Los Angeles farmer's market. Embracing her West Coast vibe, she paired her heather grey trousers with a terracotta tank top and burgundy satin ballet flats from Miu Miu, finishing the look with a Chanel 22 bag in a striking chartreuse hue.

      These airy trousers serve as the ideal alternative to basic leggings and comfy sweatpants, maintaining the shape and intrigue of wide-leg trousers or barrel-leg jeans. They are especially favorable for petite frames, great for transitional weather, and exude a relaxed vibe. Check out the best balloon trousers to shop below.

      Shop Balloon Trousers:

      **THE FRANKIE SHOP**

      Isola Jersey Balloon Pants – Pair with a technical windbreaker and heeled flip-flops for a relaxed outfit.

      **ALAÏA**

      Pleated Georgette Peplum Tapered Pants – Keep an eye out; skirt-trouser hybrids may be the next trending style.

      **Free People**

      Moonflower Balloon Trousers – With summer festival season approaching, it's a perfect time to get ready.

      **ALIGNE**

      Meryl Balloon Trouser – The chic contrast between the puffy trousers and tailored blazer is striking.

      Even the most delicate tops, like the favored peasant blouse, complement this trouser trend beautifully.

      **H&M**

      Cotton Balloon Trousers – Simple elegance is ideal for summer wear.

      **Mode Mischief**

      Costes Trousers – Featuring a pearlescent finish, this jellyfish-hued fabric flows gracefully in the summer light.

      **MANGO**

      Satin-Finish Harem Pants With Poppers – Customize this satin pair to achieve your preferred fit.

      **MANGO**

      Striped Lyocell Balloon Pants – The perfect choice for city dwellers wanting to add a relaxed vibe to their outfits.

      **ZARA**

      Balloon Trousers With Pleats – A high-waisted option without elasticated ankles, making it a viable substitute for wide-leg trousers.

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      Zoe Kravitz