Friday, January 16, 2026

The 24 Best Women’s Work Pants For Smart Office Dressing

If you're in the mood for some retail therapy that’s both guilt-free and year-round practical, we’ve got your work wardrobe covered. Work pants often get a bad rap, but we're here to dispel the myth that they have to be stiff, frumpy, or the first thing you ditch when you get home. Our curated list of the best women's work pants includes everything from classic ponte trousers and wide-leg trousers to edgy chinos and barrel-leg pants.

Ahead, discover stylish and versatile options in every cut, color, size, length, and price point — including relaxed styles for casual Fridays and elevated picks perfect for post-work dinners. So grab your favorite winter coat and knee-high boots, and prepare to shimmy into your favorite new pants to tackle your day in style.

All linked products are independently selected by our editors. If you purchase any of these products, we may earn a commission.

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Madewell The Barrel-Leg Chino Pant


These new Madewell pants are essential for barrel-leg pant fans. The stretch twill chino is effortlessly relaxed and cool, and can easily be worn to the office or weekend plans with the ankles cuffed or uncuffed. (Plus, they're available in tall and plus sizes!)

Madewell The Barrel-Leg Chino Pant, $, available at Madewell

Banana Republic Straight Everywhere Ponte Ankle Pant


Every closet needs a no-fuss ponte pant, and this classic Banana Republic style fits the bill. Soft, slightly stretchy, and straight-cut, it’s a workwear hero piece — available in petite and tall sizes, too.

Banana Republic Straight Everywhere Ponte Ankle Pant, $, available at Banana Republic

Maeve The Colette Magic Fabric Crop Wide-Leg Pants


With nearly 4K reviews and a 4.6-star rating on Anthropologie, Maeve’s signature Colette pants are a surefire office favorite. Available in multiple inseam lengths, plus sizes, and adaptive-friendly options, they’re as versatile as they are stylish. You can also explore other best-selling Colette styles to find your perfect match.

Maeve The Colette Magic Fabric Crop Wide-Leg Pants, $, available at Anthropologie

Lululemon Daydrift High-Rise Wide-Leg Trouser


Get comfort and style with these editor-favorite Lululemon pants that look like a trouser but feel like a lounge pant. (How do they do it? The secret lies in the soft, stretchy fabric and drawstring waistband.) Available in several colorways and hem lengths, the perfect pant is one click away.

Lululemon Daydrift High-Rise Wide-Leg Trouser, $, available at Lululemon

Everlane The Fatigue Barrel Pant


With patch pockets, statement buttons, and a chic green shade, these military-inspired pants can be worn from the office to the grocery store. Perfect for casual work setting, Everlane’s barrel pants are here to help get the job done.

Everlane The Fatigue Barrel Pant, $, available at Everlane

Quince Ultra-Stretch Ponte Straight Leg Pants


With over 11.4K rave reviews, Quince's ponte pants combine the comfort of yoga pants with a work-ready sensibility. Available in four inseam lengths, they’re designed to fit you perfectly.

Quince Ultra-Stretch Ponte Straight Leg Pants, $, available at Quince

Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Taylor Wide-Leg Trouser Pants


A tried-and-true wardrobe staple, these bestselling Old Navy pants are a practical go-to you’ll reach for on repeat. With nearly 2k positive reviews, these under-$50 pleated pants (also available in petite and tall lengths) are a no-brainer (worth buying in multiples).

Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Taylor Wide-Leg Trouser Pants, $, available at Old Navy

Dickies Flex Slim Fit Bootcut Pants


Dickies, the heritage workwear brand, delivers a bootcut pant that works as hard as you do. These top-rated trousers combine a professional look with durable, stretchy twill fabric that moves with you — no gaping, no tearing, no problem.

Dickies Flex Slim Fit Bootcut Pants, $, available at Dickies

Halara High Waisted Shirred Straight Leg Work Pants


Finding pants that fit a smaller waist can be tricky, but Halara solves the issue with a stretchy back waistband hidden in a classic suit pant design. Add a statement belt to conceal it, and they’ll look custom-tailored. Bonus: they come in a wide range of colors, sizes, and inseam lengths.

Halara High Waisted Shirred Straight Leg Work Pants, $, available at Halara

Reformation Gale Satin Mid Rise Bias Pant


Reformation's sleek, satin trousers are a super elevated option yet super comfortable thanks to their stretchy waistband and relaxed leg. Find them in several neutral, work-ready neutrals (and a few bold hues and prints).

Reformation Gale Satin Mid Rise Bias Pant, $, available at Reformation

Eloquii Plus Size The Ultimate Stretch Slim Leg Pant


Eloquii’s plus-size workwear is a standout, and these best-selling pants top our professional wardrobe checklist. Choose between a range of classic and bold colorways and inseam lengths for the perfect fit.

Eloquii The Ultimate Stretch Slim Leg Pant, $, available at Eloquii

Favorite Daughter The Favorite Pant


These ultra-high-waisted trousers create the illusion of mile-long legs — and a boost of confidence to match. From the soft pleats to the drapey legs, these awork pants re sure to have you strutting through the office with an extra pep in your step.

Favorite Daughter The Favorite Pant, $, available at Favorite Daughter

Good American Good Classic Bootcut Faux Leather Pants


Who said you can't wear leather pants to the office? These black bootcut pants mean business. The Good American style features a smooth, soft fabric and gap-proof waistband that delivers all-day comfort and confidence.

Good American Good Classic Bootcut Faux Leather Pants, $, available at Good American

Spanx PerfectFit Ponte Flare Pant


Spanx isn’t just about shapewear — the brand’s everyday attire shines, too, like these flared pants with a 4-star rating from over 3.7K shoppers. Made with light-compression SpanxSmooth ponte fabric, they’re a fan favorite and come in petite, tall, and plus sizes as the sartorial cherry on top.

SPANX PerfectFit Ponte Flare Pant, $, available at SPANX

Aritzia The Effortless Pant in Crepette


Living up to its name, the Aritzia Effortless Pant makes any office ‘fit look and feel effortlessly polished. Available in over 15 shade, they also come in three lengths and a wide size range, making your quest for the perfect pair truly effortless.

Aritzia The Effortless Pant in Crepette, $, available at Aritzia

J.Crew Vintage Flare Pant in Corduroy


Turn heads in a pair of '70s-esque super-high rose flare corduroy pants. This pair is yet another (not-so-basic) trouser that's versatile enough to wear to the office and to late-night dance parties.

J.Crew Vintage Flare Pant in Corduroy, $, available at J.Crew

Vuori Villa Trouser


In true Vuori fashion, these top-rated, drapey wide-leg pants are as comfortable as loungewear. Crafted from a breathable four-way stretch fabric with an elastic waistband, they’re so comfy you’ll forget to change out of them after work.

Vuori Villa Trouser, $, available at Vuori

Free People Lex Barrel Pants


For laidback office dress codes, these cotton Free People pants are a winner. The tie-up, elastic waistband adds a casual touch that can also easily be concealed under an oversized sweater or button-down shirt.

Free People Lex Barrel Pants, $, available at Free People

Abercrombie & Fitch Sloane Tailored Hardware Wide Leg Pant


Available in short, standard, and tall hems (as well as the brand's popular Curvy sizing) across multiple colorways and elevated hardware-detail styles, plus designed to eliminate waist gaps, these Abercrombie & Fitch pants are a bestseller for a reason.

Abercrombie & Fitch Sloane Tailored Hardware Wide Leg Pant, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch

Ann Taylor The Pleated Wide-Leg Pant


Ann Taylor does workwear well, and has tons of trousers to choose from (especially in petite sizes). These unexpected silky wide-leg pants are elevated enough for day-to-night looks, offering put-together style in seconds.

Ann Taylor The Pleated Wide-Leg Pant, $, available at Ann Taylor

Alex Mill Neil Pant In Herringbone


A fan-favorite of many Refinery29 editors, Alex Mill nails the art of well-made wardrobe essentials. These new pants are a practical and versatile option thanks to their season-less herringbone weave fabric, spacious patch pockets, and adjustable waist tabs.

Alex Mill Neil Pant In Herringbone, $, available at Alex Mill

Alo Long High-Waist Pursuit Trouser 


Tall gals rejoice —  Alo’s 33-inch-inseam pants are a bestseller waiting to join your closet. With a relaxed fit that nails the cool-girl vibe, they’re a must-have. And you better believe the regular length boasts stellar reviews, too.

Alo Long High-Waist Pursuit Trouser, $, available at Alo

Uniqlo Smart Ankle Pants

These tapered ankle-length pants give ‘80s power leg vibes in the best way. Wear them with a matching blazer, button-down top, or chunky sweater to dress up or down the classic and versatile silhouette.

Uniqlo Smart Ankle Pants, $, available at Uniqlo

SĂ©zane Cesar Trousers


You may think you can only have fun your work tops, but SĂ©zane makes the case for your bottoms being the star of your office outfit. Look for standout details — like these six horn-effect buttons — that can be the focal point.

Sézane Cesar Trousers, $, available at Sézane

Old Navy High-Waisted Pull-On Pixie Wide-Leg Pants


A tried-and-true wardrobe staple, these classic Old Navy pants are a practical go-to you’ll reach for on repeat. From the effortless pull-on waistband and wide-leg silhouette to the praises of over 3.3K shoppers, these under-$50 pants are a no-brainer (possibly worth buying in multiples).

Old Navy High-Waisted Pull-On Pixie Wide-Leg Pants, $, available at Old Navy

Vuori Meta Wideleg Trouser Pants


In true Vuori fashion, these best-selling wide-leg pants are stylish but comfortable as heck. Crafted from a breathable four-way stretch fabric with an elastic waistband, they’re so comfy you’ll forget to change out of them after work.

Vuori Meta Wideleg Trouser Pants, $, available at Vuori

Reformation Mason Pant


Reformation's sleek, lightweight woven trousers come in several neutral, work-ready neutrals (and a few bold hues), but this stripped pattern serves up corporatecore vibes in the best way possible.

Reformation Mason Pant, $, available at Reformation

Madewell The Harlow Wide-Leg Pant in Drapey Twill


These editor-approved Madewell pants are essential for wide-leg trouser fans. The lightweight twill style comes in standard, plus, petite, tall, and curvy sizes — the Harlow design is also available in other fabrics, including denim.

Madewell The Harlow Wide-Leg Pant in Drapey Twill, $, available at Madewell

J.Crew Delaney Kickout Sweater-Pant


Turn heads in trending red pull-on pants with an ever-so-slight crop and flare fit. Prefer something more versatile? They’re offered in muted colorways that work for any dress code. 

J.Crew Delaney Kickout Sweater-Pant, $, available at J.Crew

We The Free Good Sport Trousers


For laidback office dress codes, these sporty cotton Free People pants are a winner. The tie-up, boxer-style waistband adds a unique touch to the classic silhouette and can be easily concealed under an oversized sweater or button-down shirt.

We The Free Good Sport Trousers, $, available at Free People

Lululemon Stretch Knit Straight-Leg Pull-On Pant


Lululemon’s best-selling activewear is the brand’s calling card, but their elevated styles deserve your attention, too. Case in point: the much-loved Softstreme Pintuck Pant and newer Stretch Knit Straight-Leg Pant, which both feature stretchy fabric, a comfy pull-on waist, and polished pleats.

Lululemon Stretch Knit Straight-Leg Pull-On Pant, $, available at Lululemon

Good American Scuba Boss Straight Trouser 


Step aside — this trouser means business. The figure-hugging bootcut silhouette is crafted from a double-knit stretch fabric that cinches the waist, delivering all-day comfort and confidence.


Good American Scuba Boss Straight Trouser, $, available at Good American

Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Sloane Tailored Wide Leg Pant


Tired of trousers that gap in the back? Look to Abercrombie’s editor-approved Curve Love pants, designed to cinch your waist perfectly. With over 2.1K glowing reviews — and nearly 2K for the straight-size version — their popularity and versatility speak for themselves.

Abercrombie & Fitch Curve Love Sloane Tailored Wide Leg Pant, $, available at Abercrombie & Fitch

Everlane The Dream Pant


With pintuck detailing and an elastic waistband, these pants are perfect for casual work settings. Everlane’s best-seller has racked up over 870 glowing reviews and comes in several classic colorways  — but act fast before they sell out.

Everlane The Dream Pant, $, available at Everlane

Uniqlo Pleated Wide Pant 


These relaxed-fit pants give ‘80s power leg vibes — a major 2025 fashion trend. Plus, you can have them tailored to your preferred inseam before they even arrive —  at no extra cost!

Uniqlo Pleated Wide Pants, $, available at Uniqlo

Alex Mill Sloane Pant


A fan-favorite of many Refinery29 editors, Alex Mill nails the art of well-made wardrobe essentials. The Sloan chino is a timeless choice that'll carry you through the workweek — and beyond.

Alex Mill Sloane Pant, $, available at Alex Mill

Ann Taylor The Belted Pleated Wide-Leg Pant


Belted trousers mean one less thing to think about during those early work mornings. These offer put-together style in seconds flat, making them a must — especially while the on-sale style is still in stock.

Ann Taylor The Belted Pleated Wide-Leg Pant, $, available at Ann Taylor

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Thursday, January 15, 2026

10 Tarnish-Free Gold Jewelry Brands To Wear (& Gift) Nonstop

Tarnish-free gold jewelry sounds like the ultimate cheat code — pieces that won’t fade, dull, or turn your skin green, no matter how much you wear them. But do they exist on a budget? The short answer: kind of. Unless you’re investing in solid gold (which is costly), no jewelry is completely resistant to wear over time. But thanks to smarter materials and better plating techniques, you can get long-lasting shine without the hefty price tag. 

“‘Tarnish-free’ means the jewelry is resistant to discoloration from air, moisture, or skin oils,” explains Jennie Yoon, founder and CEO of Kinn Studio. “While no jewelry material is completely immune to wear over time, tarnish-free pieces are designed to maintain their original appearance for much longer.” The key? High-quality base metals, thicker gold layers, and protective coatings that help plated pieces hold up to daily wear. 

One of the biggest game-changers in affordable jewelry is physical vapor deposition (PVD), a high-tech plating method that makes gold layers tougher, thicker, and more resistant to fading. “Recent advancements like PVD coating, thicker micron plating, and anti-tarnish treatments allow us to create beautiful, long-lasting pieces at a price point that is accessible to more people,” Yoon explains. 

But longevity isn’t just about the plating method — it also comes down to how you wear and care for your jewelry. “Avoid exposure to water, sweat, and chemicals like perfumes or cleaning products,” Yoon advises. “Storing your pieces in a cool, dry place and cleaning them with a soft cloth can make a huge difference in keeping them looking new… A well-made piece of plated jewelry can last for years with proper care.” 

So what’s the difference between gold plating, vermeil, and solid gold? Gold plating is the most affordable, but it’s also the least durable — just a thin layer of gold over brass or stainless steel. Vermeil is a step up, with a thicker layer of gold over sterling silver, making it more resistant to tarnishing. And solid gold? That’s literally the gold standard for jewelry that stays pristine forever — but at a cost. Ahead, we’re breaking down the best tarnish-free gold jewelry brands for everyday wear — whether you’re looking for an investment piece, fun Valentine’s Day-coded heart-shaped design, or everyday go-to hoops that won’t quit.

Mejuri

By far one of the most beloved jewelry brands, Mejuri makes some of the best everyday jewelry — from delicate and sparkly to bold and lustrous. With a commitment to 95% recycled gold, the brand blends sustainability with durability, offering everything from solid 14K gold designed for nonstop wear to 18K gold vermeil layered over sterling silver for long-lasting shine. Whether you’re finally splurging on that investment piece or adding to your daily stack, these designs are made to go the distance.

Shop all Mejuri jewelry

Ana Luisa

Mega-affordable and packed with all the hits, Ana Luisa delivers sparkly hoops, delicate studs, dangly earrings, and layerable chains alongside solid gold, pearl, and diamond pieces — all without the steep markup. Known for its tarnish-free, hypoallergenic, and waterproof edits, the brand rigorously tests every piece to ensure it holds up to daily wear. With a focus on recycled materials and responsible sourcing, plus a two-year warranty and over 50,000 five-star reviews, these are the kind of staples you can count on.

Shop all Ana Luisa jewelry

Monica Vinader

Monica Vinader reimagines fine jewelry through the lens of fluid, organic shapes and nature-inspired textures, resulting in pieces that feel both effortless and quietly striking. From sculptural pearl drops and softly contoured gold bands to gemstone beaded bracelets with molten-like detailing, each design embraces natural irregularities that set it apart. Crafted from 100% recycled gold and sterling silver, the brand’s jewelry doesn’t just look refined — it’s tarnish-resistant and designed for everyday wear. And now, traceable lab-grown diamonds bring high-wattage shine to the mix.

Shop all Monica Vinader jewelry

Catbird

The purveyors of all things teensy, delicate, and just left of center, Catbird makes cool-person jewelry — the kind you collect, stack, and never take off. Designed in Brooklyn and crafted with over 95% recycled 14K solid gold and recycled diamonds, the brand’s whisper-thin rings, glimmering chains, and tiny starry diamonds won’t tarnish, fade, or lose their glow. Catbird also practically invented the stacking game — and changed jewelry again with permanent Forever Bracelets, clasp-free solid gold chains custom-fitted and welded directly onto your wrist for a seamless look that’s become a signature of the effortlessly stylish.

Shop all Catbird jewelry

Missoma

From bold, trendy statement jewelry to timeless classics, Missoma has made demi-fine jewelry a must-have. Designed in London and handcrafted for stacking, the brand delivers statement chains, bold hoops, and stackable rings in recycled 18K gold vermeil, gold plated, and sterling silver. Covetable collaborations with fashion notables like Lucy Williams and Harris Reed — as well as an appearance in the Barbie movie — only add to its cult status. And for those ready to invest? The Missoma Fine collection elevates bestsellers in recycled 14K solid gold and diamonds — classic, with a twist.

Shop all Missoma jewelry

Jenny Bird

Every fashion insider knows that Jenny Bird delivers the bold hoops, eye-catching chains, and sleek cuffs that instantly pull a look together. R29 editors, including swear by the brand for pieces, such as the water-durable collection, that can handle nonstop wear. Crafted from recycled 14K solid gold and ultra-durable stainless steel, these essentials bring the statement without tarnish or green marks. 

Shop all Jenny Bird jewelry

BaubleBar

You know and love BaubleBar for its playful pieces and budget-friendly price tags, but, as part of its fine jewelry collection, the brand also delivers on tarnish-resistant jewelry crafted from 14K and 18K gold-plated sterling silver for a luxe look without the splurge. From layer-ready chains and sleek gold rings to statement earrings that sparkle, these pieces let you pile on the shine without the stress — just fun, accessible, and mixable staples.

Shop all BaubleBar jewelry

Electric Picks

You’ve likely spotted Electric Picks on your favorite influencers and celebs — the brand has a way of making jewelry feel personal, storied, and achingly cool. With 14K solid gold and 14K gold-plated styles, these pieces are tarnish-resistant and built for daily wear. The vibe spectrum is just as dynamic — with collections that mix chains with natural elements like pearls and shells, and transforming charms, tokens, and coins from around the world into modern heirlooms.

Shop all Electric Picks jewelry

Kinn

Kinn is redefining modern heirlooms with fine jewelry crafted to stand the test of time. With solid gold as the foundation — the ultimate standard in tarnish-free wear — and high-quality vermeil built for longevity, these pieces are designed to be worn daily rather than saved for special occasions. “Balancing affordability with quality requires a commitment to using high-quality materials, such as sterling silver bases for vermeil or thicker gold plating,” explains Yoon. The result? Investment-worthy staples that won’t lose their luster, whether you wear them for years or pass them down for generations.

Shop all Kinn jewelry

Hey Harper

Not all gold-plated jewelry can handle real life — but Hey Harper can. Known for its waterproof, tarnish-resistant designs, the brand has perfected PVD-coated jewelry that won’t fade, chip, or turn your skin green. With prices starting around $25, it’s an easy choice for everyday staples, from stackable bracelets and bold rings to layer-ready chains. 

Shop all Hey Harper jewelry

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Wednesday, January 14, 2026

Winter Dress Trends — Like Plaid & Capes — To Wear All Season Long

Frost is nipping at our noses — which means our winter dress coats and knee-high boots are officially back in rotation. As your winter dresses make their seasonal debut, it’s the perfect time to refresh a few favorites.

This season especially calls for long-sleeve dresses across cozy knit and velvet fabrics, elevated blazer and cape designs, plus bundled-up high-neck and maxi silhouettes. Many of these trendy winter dresses can be worn for everything from work to winter weddings (and all the celebrations throughout the season, like Valentine’s Day). And we promise that plaids and velvets are way more versatile than just being worn for the holidays.

Ahead, shop the best cool-weather picks to achieve trendy winter aesthetics from reader-favorite retailers like Nordstrom, Free People, and H&M.

Sweater Dresses

Whether you’re dressing for the office, a cozy dinner, a log cabin getaway, or a window-shopping stroll, it’s time to embrace sweater weather. From plush cashmere and merino wool to ribbed jersey knits, these sweater dresses are equal parts warm and comfortable. We found styles in a range of lengths with turtlenecks, belts, and cardigan-esque designs that aren’t so basic, yet still versatile.

Velvet Dresses

When it comes to winter fabrics, velvet is the undisputed favorite. It’s soft, tactile, and undeniably luxe — perfect for winter cocktail parties, especially when in drapey silhouettes. For other seasonal occasions, like date nights, we’ve also spotted darling mini dresses with playful details like sequins and lace for extra texture and interest.

Plaid Dresses

Just as classic plaid coats are trending, so are plaid dresses. While gingham shines in the warmer months, slightly festive and edgy plaids and tartans in deep color combos are perfect throughout the winter. So, whether you’re looking to re-style your favorite holiday dresses or are shopping for a new dress, plaid is your friend. Find the print across mini, midi, and maxi lengths for every vibe and occasion.

Blazer Dresses

Continuing the 2025 fashion trend train, bold shoulders and soft suiting are still popular, so it’s no wonder blazer dresses are having a moment. This suit alternative lets you bring the business vibes while showing a bit of leg. Plus, thicker velvet and faux leather fabrics, as well as details like neck scarves, mean you don’t have to sacrifice warmth. Just add fleece-lined tights and over-the-knee boots to fully winter-proof your look.

Cape Dresses

We’ve been seeing cape dresses more frequently, especially across awards season red carpets, so we’re embracing the celebrity-backed trend. Ethereal sheer capes, attached scarves, and removable sleeves are especially popping up across our favorite retailers. Cape dresses make for the ideal winter wedding guest style, especially if you’re looking for a little extra coverage and warmth, sans stiff or sweaty long sleeves.

High-Neck Dresses

This awards season has also highlighted high-neck gowns, which is perhaps surprising, but certainly seasonally appropriate. From turtlenecks and mock necks to cowl necks and boatnecks, these dresses are reserved, but still chic and flirty. And luckily, there’s a range of fabrics and lengths that are perfect for professional work settings, casual family gatherings, romantic date nights, and black-tie parties.

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