Like most fashion revivals, pantaloons didn’t come out of nowhere. After seasons of sheer dresses, boxer shorts, bloomers and slip skirts, the shift feels almost inevitable. They lean into fashion’s ongoing love affair with lingerie-inspired dressing, but with a more breezy perspective. These undeniably vintage, and Victorian-inspired trousers have quietly become the cool girl‘s answer to summer dressing.
What Are Pantaloons?
Think of them as bloomers’ older, chicer sister. Once hidden beneath dresses in the 19th century, today’s pantaloons are designed to be seen. Cut from airy cottons and linens, they usually fall just below the knee, finished with lace trims, gathered hems or delicate embroidery. What once belonged to period dramas has suddenly become one of fashion’s most unexpected summer staples.
Why They’re Everywhere
If anyone was going to bring pantaloons back, it was Chloé. For Spring/Summer 2025, Creative Director Chemena Kamali styled the Victorian favourite with camisoles, ballet flats and layered jewellery, making the Victorian staple feel surprisingly current.
Since then, pantaloons have moved well beyond the runway. Bella Hadid wore a floaty white pair while holidaying in the South of France, Millie Bobby Brown has also embraced the trend, and Instagram has been flooded with its own takes. Brands including Chloé, Cou Cou Intimates, Somebodée, Princess Polly and Free People have all put their spin on the style this season.
Maybe that’s why pantaloons feel so right right now. They bring together the free-spirited feel of the boho revival, the romance of the “office maiden” aesthetic and the lightness of sheer dressing. If a sheer dress feels like too much, pantaloons offer an easy way to keeping things a little more covered.
How to Style Them
The easiest way to wear pantaloons is to let them be the statement. Pair crisp white styles with a fitted tank, baby tee or simple black T-shirt for an effortless everyday look. If you want to lean into their vintage charm, style them with a floaty blouse, ballet flats and layered jewellery.
They’re equally at home on holiday. Throw them over a swimsuit with leather sandals and a woven tote for an easy daytime look, or layer them under a short dress for a more frolicsome take. Come autumn, swap the linen shirts for oversized knitwear and loafers to carry the trend into the cooler months.
Why We’re Into It
Unlike many vogue pieces, pantaloons feel surprisingly wearable. They’re lightweight enough for peak summer and everyday dressing, and they bring movement and texture to even the simplest outfit. After seasons dominated by denim and trousers, pantaloons are bringing a little fun and whimsy back to getting dressed.
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