With summer in full swing and much of the world in the middle of a heatwave (praying for us all), the idea of wearing anything at all feels questionable. Ideally, I’d be wearing absolutely nothing if it were socially acceptable. Alas, we’re not cavemen, so that’s not exactly an option, but honestly, the thought of wearing trousers sounds like a crime right now. And sometimes, a pair of shorts or a skirt just isn’t really my vibe, which is why I’m so happy lace trousers have become a trend this season.
For years, the see-through bottoms were mostly styled as swimsuit cover-ups or leaned into a more boho aesthetic for festival goers. I always associated them with beach/poolside moments, holiday dressing, or music festival outfits. But then I started seeing street style stars wearing them out and about, showing a little skin (though fully lined designs are available) with chic tops and blouses, stylish jackets, and heels, making it feel like a much more elevated moment and the star of the outfit. I love that it’s gotten this kind of fashion-forward upgrade, and people aren’t afraid to go a little more bare. Especially with these insanely high temps...
I’ve been dying to get a pair for myself, especially with a coastal Italian trip on the horizon. After some internet digging, I came across Marks & Spencer's Lace Wide-Leg Trouseres, which are exactly what I was looking for.
First of all, I love that they come with a built-in shorts lining, adding a little extra modesty and eliminating the need to think (read: worry) about what kind of underwear situation works here. The lace detail on the legs is gorgeous and light, and the fabric is thin and lightweight – perfectly breezy for hot weather. The black colourway works seamlessly with my wardrobe, but they also come in a gorgeous ivory option if you want something more seasonal.
Or, find more chic lace trousers we're shopping below:
Meshki Tessa Broderie Straight Leg Pants
Mint Velvet Cream Lace Wide Leg Trousers
AllSaints Amelie Straight Leg Lace Trousers
Megan Uy is an associate shopping editor at Cosmopolitan, where she searches for the best products in all things fashion, home, beauty, sex, gifts, and more, so you don’t have to. When she’s not writing for the site, she’s whipping up some cool and trendy content for the fashion section of the print magazine. She’s been with the brand since 2019 (when she was an itty-bitty editorial fellow), and she's also written for Delish, House Beautiful, and People. Follow her on Instagram to get some BTS of the editor life and chaotic NYC content. Also, feel free to hit her up if you ever wanna discuss the madness that is TikTok.
Alexandria Dale is the Digital Fashion Writer at Cosmopolitan UK. Covering everything from the celebrity style moments worth knowing about to the latest fashion news, there’s nothing she loves more than finding a high street dupe of a must-have designer item. As well as discovering new brands, she’s passionate about sustainable fashion and establishing the trends that are actually worth investing in. Having worked in fashion journalism for six years, she has experience at both digital and print publications including Glamour and Ok!
