The Resurgence of Wide-Leg Trousers: A New Era in Menswear
In the ever-evolving landscape of menswear, a notable shift is taking place: wide-leg trousers are making a significant comeback. This trend marks a departure from the decade-long dominance of skinny silhouettes, reflecting broader changes in fashion preferences and societal attitudes toward masculinity.
A Surge in Popularity
Recent data reveals a remarkable increase in the popularity of men’s trousers. According to Sophie Jordan, the menswear buying director at Mytheresa, sales of men’s pants have surged by 78% year-over-year in 2025. This trend is not just a fleeting moment; it signifies a fundamental shift in how men are approaching their wardrobes. For instance, trousers accounted for a staggering 65% of the tailoring business for Parisian label Officine Générale in 2024, as noted by the brand’s founder, Pierre Mahéo.
The resurgence of wide-leg trousers is particularly striking. After years of skinny pants dominating the market, wider styles have re-emerged as a fashionable choice. Retail data from Edited indicates that the availability of wider men’s pant styles in U.S. mass retailers increased by 17% in August 2025, while skinny pants saw a dramatic decline of 47%. This shift is not limited to high fashion; it is permeating mainstream culture, with celebrities like Colman Domingo and Jacob Elordi showcasing roomier trousers on red carpets.
Comfort Meets Style
Historically, trousers have often been viewed as formal or stuffy attire. However, the wider silhouette offers a level of comfort that resonates with modern consumers, particularly those who became accustomed to the relaxed fit of sweatpants during the pandemic. Unlike their straighter counterparts, wide-leg trousers provide a more forgiving fit, making them appealing to a diverse range of body types. They can be effortlessly styled with everything from a biker jacket to a tailored blazer, allowing for versatility in personal expression.
Jordan emphasizes this shift, stating, “Pants have just become much more of the focal point of a man’s outfit. In the past, it felt like it was more about other items, and the pants were just a filler.”
Historical Context: The Evolution of Trousers
The current trend of wide-leg trousers is reminiscent of the late 20th century when designer Giorgio Armani popularized the silhouette in the 1980s. His designs, showcased in films like “American Gigolo,” epitomized a relaxed yet sophisticated aesthetic. This style flourished throughout the 1990s but faced a decline in the early 2000s as designers like Hedi Slimane and Raf Simons introduced slimmer cuts, which were quickly adopted by influential figures in music and fashion.
As menswear commentator Derek Guy points out, the ubiquity of skinny pants led to a sense of monotony in men’s fashion. By the 2020s, many were seeking alternatives, leading to the current revival of wider silhouettes.
The Sociopolitical Landscape
The resurgence of wide-leg trousers is not merely a fashion statement; it also reflects broader sociopolitical dynamics. The rise of “performative masculinity” has seen some men embracing wider pants as a way to challenge traditional gender norms. This shift is particularly evident among younger generations who are more open to experimenting with their style and expressing their individuality.
Tim Dessaint, a fashion influencer with a substantial following, notes that men are increasingly comfortable with self-expression. “It goes hand in hand with men becoming more comfortable in their own skin,” he explains. This newfound confidence allows for greater experimentation with silhouettes, including the wider styles that are currently trending.
Brand Responses to the Trend
Fashion brands are keenly aware of this shift and are adapting their offerings accordingly. The runway has become a showcase for wide-leg trousers, with designers like Jonathan Anderson for Dior and American label Todd Snyder featuring oversized bottoms in their collections. However, successful brands are not merely replicating the trend; they are innovating by introducing a variety of widths and unexpected fabrics.
For example, Parisian label Husbands has embraced high-waisted designs that allow for creative leg widths. Founder Nicolas Gabard explains that this approach provides more freedom in design, catering to a growing demand for diverse trouser styles.
Officine Générale has also responded to this trend by introducing the Evans pant, which features a 28-centimeter hem-its widest silhouette yet. Mahéo emphasizes the importance of aligning product offerings with customer desires, stating, “When you make a product and then meet the audience, that’s fantastic.”
The Future of Menswear
As the fashion landscape continues to evolve, the future of trousers appears to be a blend of styles. While wide-leg trousers are currently in vogue, designers are also exploring more fitted options. For instance, Prada’s recent runway show featured form-hugging bottoms, suggesting a potential shift back toward slimmer silhouettes.
Jian DeLeon, Nordstrom’s men’s fashion director, predicts that the new normal will likely land somewhere between “not too slim and not too wide.” This balance will allow for a broader range of styles, encouraging men to define their looks rather than simply following trends.
Conclusion
The resurgence of wide-leg trousers in menswear is a multifaceted phenomenon that reflects changing fashion preferences, evolving societal norms, and a growing acceptance of diverse body types. As brands adapt to this trend, they are not only offering a wider array of styles but also encouraging men to embrace their individuality. This shift signifies a broader cultural movement toward self-expression and comfort, paving the way for a more inclusive and dynamic future in menswear.
