Wide-Legged Trousers: A Complete Fit & Style Guide (UK & USA)

Wide-legged trousers are a timeless wardrobe staple—known for their relaxed silhouette, flowy elegance, and remarkable ability to flatter every body shape when styled correctly. Whether you favour a classic tailored wide-leg or a breezy palazzo, this versatile garment works across seasons and dress codes.

This guide covers:

How to wear wide-leg trousers for your body shape
The best high street and designer options in the UK & USA
Styling tips to balance proportion
And how Tellar.co.uk helps you get the perfect fit every time

👖 What Are Wide-Legged Trousers?

Wide-legged trousers feature a full leg that extends straight or flares from the hip down, offering a roomy, draped fit as opposed to tapered or skinny trousers. Key types include:

Tailored wide-leg (structured, workwear-appropriate)
Palazzo pants (fluid, lightweight for summer)
High-rise or paperbag styles (waist-enhancing)
Cropped wide-leg (ankle-length, modern)

🧍‍♀️ Best Wide-Leg Styles for Each Body Shape

▪ Hourglass

What works: High-waisted, belted, or structured waist wide-legs that highlight the natural curve of the waist and flow from the hips.

Avoid: Baggy or shapeless styles with no waist definition.

Pro tip: Tuck in your top to balance volume and define shape.

▪ Pear-Shaped

What works: Darker wide-leg trousers with subtle volume balance out hips. A slightly flared leg (not overly wide) creates a streamlined look.

Avoid: Stiff fabrics that crease at the hip or low-rise cuts.

Pro tip: Pair with brighter or detailed tops to draw attention upward.

▪ Rectangle

What works: Wide-leg trousers with pleats or paperbag waists to add volume and create curves.

Avoid: Straight-up-and-down cuts with no shaping.

Pro tip: Choose bold colours, large prints, or asymmetrical tops to enhance dimension.

▪ Apple-Shaped

What works: Flat-front wide-leg trousers with a structured waistband that sit slightly below the natural waist.

Avoid: Elastic waists that dig or trousers with excess fabric in the tummy.

Pro tip: Go monochrome or wear a top with a strong vertical neckline to elongate your frame.

▪ Petite

What works: Cropped wide-leg trousers or full-length pairs with a high waist.

Avoid: Floor-length oversized styles that drown your frame.

Pro tip: Match trousers with shoes in the same tone to lengthen the leg visually.

📖 Related:

tellar.co.uk
Use the Store Size Lookup Tool
Download a Printable Measuring Tape
🔍 Explore the Tellar Fashion Hub – 100% Free
Tellar isn’t just about size—it’s a full styling and fit platform written by real stylists. All content is:
- Honest
- Independent
- Always free
📚 Must-read guides from our fashion editors:
📲 Follow Tellar for Real-Time Styling & Fit Advice
- Instagram:@Tellarsizing
- Twitter/X:@TellarSizing
- Facebook:Tellar Sizing
- Pinterest: [TellarUK](https://www.pinterest.co.uk/TellarUK