Remember last year, when fashion was all about minimalism and the more pared-back your look, the better? A white tee and straight-leg jeans were the ultimate cool-girl uniform. Well, 2026 has taken a major 180.
Now, it's all about making a statement, from bold, saturated colours to playful details like lace trim, studs, and sequins. Even bottoms are getting a maximalist makeover, with everything from striped denim jeans to the season's newest standout silhouette: balloon trousers.
Balloon-leg trousers have long been part of the fashion landscape, often associated with bohemian style thanks to their airy, voluminous silhouette. While they still have that free-spirited feel, today's iterations are even baggier and come in everything from crisp cotton and sheer materials to more structured shapes with elevated details. Street style stars are having fun with the trend, pairing them with everything from sleek basics and oversized blazers to intricate blouses and heels
I'll always be a minimalist at heart, but I love that balloon-leg trousers make a statement without feeling over-the-top. So I went hunting for an affordable pair, and the universe delivered – I found the perfect version at H&M for just £17.99. They're exactly what I was looking for: a pair that feels trendy but still aligns with my laidback style. Plus, the drawstring feature at the bottom is a total game-changer for me because I can adjust the length and fit to my liking. Oh, and did I mention they're 100% cotton? For that price tag, you really can't beat it.
Shop these other styles I’m also a fan of:
Zara ZW Collection Polka Dot Sarouel Trousers
free-est Playa Party Balloon Pants
The Frankie Shop Mio Sheer Crêpe Balloon Pants
M&S Relaxed Balloon Trousers
Hush Adira Crinkle Bubble Hem 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!
