What to Wear with Black Trousers and Leggings

From work to weekend, black trousers are perfect for almost every occasion. Discover our top tips on how to style them

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Woman wearing a green vest with black trousers, black sandals, sunglasses and a green jumper over her shoulders.

Black trousers outfit ideas for every occasion

Black trousers are a well-established wardrobe staple, ready to be dressed up or down for pretty much any event. But, how do you style this foundation piece?

When off-duty dressing, opt for a pair of relaxed linen trousers. Our black linen-blend trousers are made with an adjustable, elasticated waist and a wide leg shape that will keep you comfy (and cool) all day. Try teaming them with a boxy T-shirt and trainers, or a breezy linen shirt and sandals. Find our tips on how to style linen trousers here.

For evenings out, black straight-leg trousers or a pair of buttery leather trousers are a smart base. Dial them up with a ruffled blouse or shirt and stiletto heels. Just add chunky earrings and you've got a statement after-dark look.

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Woman wearing a white vest with a white shirt, black wide-leg trousers, black loafers and a black tote bag.

Strike a balance: what to wear with black wide-leg trousers

When it comes to what to wear with black wide-leg trousers, the secret is all about creating balance. The relaxed-leg shape adds welcome volume to your silhouette which you’ll want to either accentuate — think a fitted T-shirt — or mirror with a relaxed shirt or flouncy blouse.

Why not complete your black wide-leg trousers outfit with a touch of pattern or colour? Ballet pumps are this season’s most coveted shoe and come in mood-boosting hues and bold animal prints — perfect for adding a pop of personality.

Alternatively, reach for a cross-body bag to pep-up up your look. We're currently loving this fiery red faux-leather style. Made with a woven texture and polished gold hardware, it will bring brightness to an all-black outfit.

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Woman wearing a black T-shirt, black trousers with white and black sandals.

Anything goes: what colour shoes to wear with black trousers

Our favourite thing about wearing black trousers is that they go with pretty much anything. So, when it comes to what colour shoes to wear with black trousers, you have free rein.

Black shoes bring a considered feel and are ideal for days when you’re going from desk to dinner thanks to their monochrome colour palette. Alternatively, contrast your black trousers with crisp white shoes. We're loving these leather boat shoes with silver hardware and a lace-up front. They're a versatile investment you can return to season after season, effortlessly combining comfort with a timeless style.

Can you wear brown shoes with black trousers? We hear you ask. Yes, you absolutely can. These sleek taupe sandals will look chic while keeping you cool and comfortable on hotter days.

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Woman wearing black leggings with a green zip-up jacket and white trainers.

Keep it comfy: how to style black leggings

Stretchy and streamlined, black leggings are the ultimate comfort piece: perfect for days on the move and an essential foundation staple.

The best women’s black leggings should sculpt your figure without feeling too restrictive. When choosing a pair, keep an eye out for a wide waistband that will provide extra support and ease of movement. We’re loving Goodmove’s Go Easy leggings which are made from cotton-rich fabric that’s breathable yet moisture wicking to keep you fresh.

Wondering what to wear with black leggings? Dress them up with a patterned tunic and pumps, then throw on a blazer for a contemporary look. If you're out-and-about running errands, team them with a comfy oversized T-shirt and trainers. There's more ways to style your black leggings in our guide to the athleisure trend.

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Published 7.8.2025