Linen trousers are a spring/summer staple, and Mirror’s shopping writer Grace set out to find the perfect pair, testing styles from Marks & Spencer, ASOS and more
Now that spring is officially here and summer is on the horizon, I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect pair of linen trousers to add to my wardrobe. In my eyes, they are a spring/summer essential. Thanks to their versatility, they can be worn for so many different occasions, from beach trips to office days and alfresco dinners.
However, my biggest issue when finding the perfect pair is finding the right length and, most importantly, no underwear peeping through. As I’m 5ft 7, ‘tall’ section trousers can be a bit too long, while ‘regular’ sizing can fall a bit too short, especially after being put through the wash.
So, I tried five different pairs of linen trousers from brands including, ASOS, Topshop, and M&S to see which pair would be the best and gain a place in my summer wardrobe.
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TOPSHOP
Linen balloon trouser in stone, available for £42
The Topshop linen trousers definitely felt the most sturdy and the highest quality, which checks out considering they are the most expensive pair at £42.
I love slouchy jeans or trousers, so the balloon silhouette is a huge bonus. I also love the deeper stone colour, which can be paired with almost everything in my wardrobe. And if the stone colour isn’t your style, there are eight different colourways to choose from, including an on-trend butter-yellow hue.
They are pretty long and baggy so if you don’t love the look of oversized clothing, these might not be your style.
ASOS
Linen look barrel trousers in yellow stripe, available for £28
My favourite pair of the try-on came from ASOS Design. The barrel leg silhouette is the trendiest trouser shape of the season, and I love how this shape immediately made this pair look slightly different from the linen trousers we often see.
Alongside the barrel leg, these trousers feature a stylish buttermilk yellow striped pattern that adds a bit of interest, and there was no sign of any underwear showing through.
They were just edging on being too short. However, I think, considering the shape, you can get away with the look of them just resting on your ankles. This length also lends itself nicely to ballet flats and sandals. Although, if you’re any taller than me, these probably won’t work.
BERSHKA
Tie waist wide leg linen rich trousers in sand, available for £22.99
Considering the affordable £23 price tag, I was really surprised with the fit and quality of this Bershka pair. They probably fit me the best out of all the others in terms of leg length and around the waist. I love the neutral sand colour, and they’re also available to purchase in three other colours: white, black, and a spring-ready pale pink.
As they are a linen blend rather than 100% linen, they did have a slightly rougher feeling on the skin, however, not enough to put me off wearing them.
BOOHOO
Stripe linen look wide leg trousers, currently £11.70
My favourite part about these striped trousers from Boohoo is that they look slightly more formal than some of the other styles because of the lack of a drawstring waist.
Of course, a drawstring waist has its perks, but it does immediately make an outfit look far more casual. However, these Boohoo trousers have a more tailored waist and could easily be worn to the office or dressed up with heels for more formal events. I’m also a big fan of stripes, so I especially love the pattern, along with the wide-leg palazzo shape that helps to elongate the legs further.
My criticism would be that they are slightly see-through and they don’t have any pockets.
MARKS & SPENCER
Linen-rich drawstring tapered trousers, available for £27
M&S has a great selection of linen trousers in right now, but you’ll have to be quick if you want to get your hands on a pair as they can sell out super fast.
I tried out their Linen-Rich Drawstring Tapered Trousers and was so surprised with the softness. They felt amazing on the skin, and gave a smarter look than some of the wider-leg styles I’ve tried.
I paired the trousers with trainers so they looked more casual; however, they could easily be teamed with a pair of mules or Mary Janes to look more office-appropriate.
The only critique I had came more down to personal preference than anything. They have a skinnier, tapered in leg, whereas I prefer a wide-leg or balloon style, so this is the pair I would reach for the least out all six.
