Jeans will always be the backbone of my bottom-half wardrobe – for work or play – but with spring in full swing, it’s time to look beyond denim. The weather’s not quite warm enough to dig out anything cropped (I’m wincing like a prudish Victorian at the thought of exposed ankles), but I’ve been on the look-out for something a little lighter in the trouser department.
A rifle through my wardrobe offers up cargo pants, which I adore for the comfort factor. However, they do feel a tad too slouchy and sloppy for the office.
I’ve toyed with the idea of a tailored trouser, but whenever I try a pair on, I can’t shake the feeling that I’m wearing my son’s school uniform. What I need is a new type of trouser: something with enough smartness for the office and post-work drinks but comfy enough for an evening curled up on the sofa.
Which brings me to M&S, of course. On a recent shopping trip, I discovered its new straight-leg cotton trousers, which have a tie belt which feels very French Chic.
The belt immediately makes the trousers feel smarter than everyday cargos, but are every bit as soft to wear. This trouser does come up a bit small, so my perfect fit was a size bigger than my normal size, but I was willing to overlook the size on the label for a pair that looks this good.
They come in five shades (plus four leg lengths), and I first bought them in a safe, dependably black. However, after a pleasing number of compliments, I bought two more pairs in mocha and cream.
M&S Pure Cotton Belted Straight Leg Trousers
At £33, it feels silly not to, especially as they give a different vibe across the colours.
The mocha shade is a great transitional option, which immediately added a lighter feel to my post-winter wardrobe. Short sleeves for the first time in 2026? Yep, we’re doing it.
Pure Cotton Belted Straight Leg Trousers
The cream calico trousers, meanwhile, are waiting in anticipation of sunnier days. For now, I’m just enjoying the idea of wearing them in al fresco bars or strolling around cobbled streets on a city mini-break this summer. Probably France. Pourquoi pas? (Neatly reef-knots the belt and tosses hair in insouciant fashion)
Pure Cotton Belted Straight Leg Trousers
Overall, I’d say these straight-leg trousers are light enough to wear both home and away, and for business or pleasure. They’re polished but not pinchy, and brilliantly versatile. In fact, you could say these trousers have legs...
