Trousers Decoded: A Real Guide to All the Different Styles (and What Actually Fits)

Let’s be honest—buying trousers can feel like a minefield. One brand’s size 12 fits like a glove, while another’s barely makes it past your knees. Add in dozens of styles (wide-leg, tapered, cropped, bootcut… the list goes on), and you’ve got a real challenge on your hands.

If you’ve ever stood in a fitting room sweating over a zip or panic-ordered five different sizes online, you are not alone.

That’s exactly why I created my profile on Tellar.co.uk. It’s the UK’s leading free sizing tool—you enter your measurements once, and it tells you your best size across over 1,500 brands, instantly. And yes—it actually works.

So whether you’re shopping for work trousers, summer palazzos, or something tailored and timeless, here’s your ultimate breakdown of every trouser style out there—what they do, who they flatter, and how to make sure they actually fit.

Straight-Leg Trousers: The No-Fail Classic

If you’re looking for one pair that will take you from office to brunch to date night, straight-leg trousers are it. These have a consistent width from hip to ankle, giving a clean, lengthening effect.

They’re brilliant for: pretty much every body type. Straight-leg trousers create a balanced silhouette without clinging.

Styling tip: Pair them with a tucked-in shirt or blazer for a tailored look.

Try:

High street: COS, M&S, Arket
Designer: Joseph, The Row

Want to know if you’re a 10 or a 12 in Arket? Just check your size at Tellar.

Wide-Leg Trousers: Big Shape, Big Impact

These are the power players of the trouser world—cut wide from the hip down, they’re dramatic, flowy, and unapologetically stylish.

They work best on: taller frames or curvier figures that need balance across the bottom half.

Styling tip: Keep your top half sleek—think tucked-in blouse or fitted knit.

Try:

High street: Mango, & Other Stories
Designer: Victoria Beckham, Stella McCartney

Want a quick win? Create a profile at Tellar.co.uk and get your exact size in each of these.

Skinny Trousers: The Contour Option

They’ve had a love/hate moment, but when they fit right, skinny trousers are hard to beat. These hug the leg all the way down—so fit is everything.

Best for: petite or hourglass shapes that like to show off their curves.

Styling tip: Contrast with oversized tops or long coats for balance.

Try:

High street: Zara, River Island
Designer: Frame Denim, J Brand

Use Tellar.co.uk to make sure you’re not stuck between a too-tight 10 and a baggy 12.

Tapered Trousers: Tailored, but Relaxed

Tapered trousers give you a looser top half and a narrower ankle—so you get structure without tightness.

Flattering on: pear-shaped, curvy, or hourglass bodies.

Styling tip: Looks great with loafers and a belt. Smart enough for the office, comfy enough for weekends.

Try:

High street: Uniqlo, Massimo Dutti
Designer: Isabel Marant, Vince

Quick hack: Tellar’s size tool tells you which of these brands run large or small.

Bootcut Trousers: The Subtle Flare

They’re back—and they’re more flattering than ever. Bootcut trousers are fitted through the thigh with a soft flare at the hem.

Perfect for: balancing hips, elongating legs, or giving your look some movement.

Styling tip: Always wear with heels or boots and make sure the hem just grazes the floor.

Try:

High street: Next, Dorothy Perkins
Designer: Celine, Altuzarra

And don’t guess your size—use Tellar and get it right the first time.

Palazzo Trousers: Holiday Mood, Everyday Feel

Flowy, elegant, and perfect for warm weather—palazzos are wide from top to bottom and usually made from breathable fabrics.

Great on: tall, hourglass, or plus-size frames.

Styling tip: Keep the top fitted or tucked in. Flat sandals or wedges work best.

Try:

High street: ASOS, Warehouse
Designer: Max Mara, Johanna Ortiz

Not sure how Max Mara compares to Warehouse? Tellar handles it for you.

Peg Trousers: Vintage-Inspired Shape

High-waisted, pleated at the front, and tapered at the ankle—peg trousers add a little fashion edge.

Best for: curvier or petite bodies that want waist definition.

Styling tip: Great with cropped jackets or tucked-in jumpers.

Try:

High street: Whistles, Boden
Designer: Rejina Pyo, Tibi

Cargo Trousers: Streetwear Meets Utility

Originally military-inspired, cargo trousers are now a fashion mainstay. Lots of pockets, plenty of room, and loads of personality.

Ideal for: sporty or androgynous frames—but anyone can pull them off with the right styling.

Styling tip: Add a fitted top or crop jacket for shape contrast.

Try:

High street: Urban Outfitters, Stradivarius
Designer: Off-White, Ganni

Still not sure what size to buy in Ganni? Use Tellar.co.uk—it’s honestly a game changer.

Joggers and Track Pants: Comfort, Elevated

If the last few years taught us anything, it’s that joggers can be chic. These aren’t just for the gym—modern track pants come tailored, high-waisted, and stylish enough for brunch.

Flattering on: all shapes, if you pick the right rise and length.

Styling tip: Pair with a sharp coat, good trainers, and clean hair.

Try:

High street: H&M, Boohoo, ASOS
Designer: Pangaia, The Frankie Shop

Culottes & Cropped Trousers: Showcase the Shoe

Cropped trousers (especially wide-leg styles) are ideal for in-between seasons. They show off your ankle and your footwear, so choose wisely.

Good for: petite and tall frames alike. The key is getting the right length.

Styling tip: Wear with ankle boots, mules, or trainers.

Try:

High street: River Island, La Redoute
Designer: Loewe, Marni

Use Tellar’s UK/European size conversion guide to make sure you don’t get the wrong number when shopping international brands.

Final Thoughts: Trousers Should Fit You

There is no single ‘perfect’ pair of trousers. What matters is fit, not fashion rules. A style that looks amazing on your best friend may not work for your body—and that’s exactly why Tellar.co.uk exists.

You plug in your chest, waist, and hips. We tell you what size you are in Zara, COS, Whistles, Celine, and over 1,500 other brands—in real-time, for free.

🛠 Ready to Ditch the Guesswork?

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