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best cords for autumn 2026
Hearst Owned

Soft cords are already trending for autumn and these pairs are the best on the high street, from £28

From cigarettes to barrel-legs

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After a long, hot summer in floaty dresses, the thought of getting into a hard trouser for autumn isn't that appealing. But, if you're not ready to step into your jeans again quite yet, we have the perfect solution: soft cords.

Corduroy is already trending for autumn and the cord trouser is set to be a key piece. As well as being a softer, more comfortable trouser, it also brings rich texture and, often, colour to your wardrobe. And this season, cord trousers come in every fresh, modern shape, from cigarette to barrel and wide-legs, so you can find the cut to suit you.

I already own a gorgeous, soft wide-leg pair from M&S in a deep chocolate brown that I'll be wearing in and out of the office. You'll find them below, along with 7 other picks from across the high street that you'll want to swap your denim for.

1

M&S Cord Pintuck Wide Leg Trousers

Cord Pintuck Wide Leg Trousers
1

M&S Cord Pintuck Wide Leg Trousers

These are the chocolate brown cords I already own and they's so soft. They also come in four leg-lengths, which I love, and sizes 6 to 24. I found them true to size.

They are a wide-leg style and they look great with a sweater vest for now and casual shirts, plus camel socks and brown loafers.

2

Boden Canonbury Cord Trousers

Canonbury Cord Trousers
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Boden Canonbury Cord Trousers

Now 20% Off

These cigarette cords come in a gorgeous forest green, one of the key shades for next season, along with chartreuse. They're smart enough for the office, worn with a shirt and kitten heels. Plus, they're 20% off right now.

3

M&S Cord Straight Leg Trousers

Cord Straight Leg Trousers
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M&S Cord Straight Leg Trousers

If you prefer a straight leg, these affordable M&S cords are a great buy. So much so, I know people with multiple pairs. Again, they come in four leg lengths and a wide range of sizes, plus you can choose between five colourways. We love the claret and the olive green. Wear with lightweight knits and ballet flats.

4

FatFace Alev Navy Barrel Cropped Cord Trousers

Alev Navy Barrel Cropped Cord Trousers
4

FatFace Alev Navy Barrel Cropped Cord Trousers

Barrel-leg fans will love these more relaxed cords from FatFace, which have a drawstring waist and a cropped leg. They're a casual take on the trend and will look gorgeous with a chunky knit and loafers come autumn. You can also get them in chocolate brown.

5

Pilcro The Izzie Relaxed Pull-On Barrel Trousers

The Izzie Relaxed Pull-On Barrel Trousers
5

Pilcro The Izzie Relaxed Pull-On Barrel Trousers

Another relaxed, barrel-leg style, the soft mink shade of these cords makes them stand out. So comfy, they have an elasticated waist, so you can just pull them on and look pulled together. Style with a blazer and backless loafers for a chic take on the trend.

6

White Stuff Tia Cord Wide Leg Crop

Tia Cord Wide Leg Crop
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White Stuff Tia Cord Wide Leg Crop

Now 60% Off

These are for the wide-leg crop fans, and they come in three lengths, so they will actually be cropped, whatever your height. We love the proportions of these when styled with your long autumn coat. They also come in dark pink, green and navy.

7

The White Company Cord Brompton Trousers

Cord Brompton Trousers
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The White Company Cord Brompton Trousers

For a more classic camel shade and a cigarette shape with tapered slim legs, head to The White Company and its popular Brompton Trousers. Wear with shirts and oversized knits and ballet pumps.

8

Sezane New 70s Trousers

New 70s Trousers
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Sezane New 70s Trousers

If you love a classic 70s cord flare, then head to chic French brand, Sezane for this timeless pair. Wear them with boots and a polo neck for the ultimate 70s silhouette.

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