Let's not sugarcoat it: shopping for pants is hard. Too tight here, not tight enough there, trousers are decidedly tricky. Even the most essential style — your basic black pants — can present a huge challenge, since every brand cuts them just a little differently. Finding the perfect fit for your body type can sometimes feel like searching for a unicorn — literally impossible. Plus, there are tons of different varieties to choose from: wide leg, ankle cropped, skinny, flared, and more. But when you do manage to find the right ones, not only do they look and feel amazing, but they're also the ideal blank canvas for pretty much any outfit you can dream up. Ahead, we've taken some of the guesswork out of the equation with a selection of the very best pairs out there at the moment, so scroll on to see our picks. Happy shopping!
For a less formal look that still feels polished, the Free People Kimmie Pant ($68) should do the trick. Paired with a billowy blouse, these cropped flares are as comfortable as they are cute.
For those searching for a slimmer style that also has shaping power, the Veronica Beard Zip Back Scuba Pants ($295) are a win. Made from thick scuba fabric, they add a little extra oomph to any shape.
Flattering on both straight and curvy frames, the Theory Demetria Admiral Crepe Flare Pants ($285) add length to legs and create an hourglass-like silhouette.
These ankle-cropped H&M Stovepipe Pants ($30) are perfect for both work and play. Dress them up with pumps and a silky button-down, then wear them off duty with ankle boots, a cozy sweater, and a puffer.
The Nic + Zoe Wonder Stretch Straight Leg Pants ($148) score high marks in customer reviews for their supersmooth fabric and universally flattering fit.
Pear-shaped ladies will fall for these Topshop High Waist Wide Leg Trousers ($95), which cinch in at the waist but lightly skim everywhere else.
A high-fashion take on the cropped flare, the Kobi Halperin Alba Cropped Flare Pants ($248) are ideal for anyone wanting to make a statement. Wear them with heels for holiday parties now and pair them with slides or loafers in Spring.
The Michael Michael Kors Cady Pleated Trousers ($102, originally $135) manage to be both relaxed and refined at the same time, making them a smart buy for long days at the office. This pleated, tapered silhouette in a looser fit works on a variety of body types.
Anyone searching for a truly classic trouser cut will love the J.Crew Edie Full-Length Trouser in Four-Season Stretch ($90). With just the right amount of stretch and a not-too-high, not-too-low rise, these pants will likely make it into weekly rotation.
These Gucci Horsebit Detailed Wool and Silk Blend Crepe Wide Leg Pants ($1,350) come with a belt attached for a little something extra. The cut is somewhere in between culottes and ankle crops, meaning they'll work easily on diverse shapes.
You can't go wrong with the Eloquii Kady Fit Double-Weave Pant ($80), an absolute cult favorite. These come in two different fits, one for women with larger hips and smaller waists and one for women who are straighter through the midsection, so you're very likely to find your perfect fit.
Come Winter, stirrups are your best friend, since they allow you to tuck your pants right into your boots. While they usually come attached to a skinny legging style, the Burberry Stretch Cotton-Blend Twill Tapered Stirrup Pants ($650) have a tailored fit that's more work-appropriate.
Want to feel like you're wearing yoga pants to work? Try the Banana Republic Devon Fit Bi-Stretch Legging ($88) on for size.
These Ann Taylor Tux Stripe Track Pants ($89) look fancy and sporty all at once, which makes them easy to wear with both sneakers and heels. Since Ann Taylor offers pants in regular, petite, and tall options and runs from XXS to XXL, there's a good chance you'll find a size that works.
The lace insets in these Alice + Olivia Mandy Side Panel Flare Pants ($395) make them sophisticated enough for an evening out. The high-waisted cut is especially suited to athletic, pear, and hourglass body types.