According to my social media feed, it seems like everyone is wearing high-waisted trousers these days (office siren trend, anyone?). But as a 5’10” girl who can’t find a good-fitting pair of pants to save her life, a preppy look can feel ~impossible~ to pull off in reality. So when multiple friends and coworkers started raving over this pair of under-$70 trousers from Quince, I had to at least give them a try.
Quince is already one of our editors' favorite clothing brands. It exploded on social media in recent years for its affordable, high-quality goods that range from 100% cashmere sweaters and European linen duvet sets to engagement rings and caviar (yes, really). The minimalist branding and crowd-pleasing styles make Quince items easy to incorporate into your existing wardrobe—while also costing a lot less than luxury competitors.
For this story, I put Quince's top-rated Stretch Crepe Pleated Wide-Leg Pants to the test—wearing them both in and outside the office and styling them as many ways as I could think of for two full months. That included long-haul office days, work happy hours, chill Saturday brunches with friends, rainy subway commutes, and everything in between. And you know what? I was pretty damn impressed.
Sizing and Colors
These preppy pants stand out for their flattering silhouette and pleasing neutral colors that range from classic black to gray, beige, and even olive green. I ordered two pairs: one in black, and the other in Morel Grey (which is a little more cream-toned in real life).
I appreciate that the Quince Stretch Crepe Pleated Wide Leg pants are available in short, regular, and tall sizes (finally!)—so you'll be able to score a pair that's a little more tailored to your leg length. One wish list item: they're available in sizes 0 to 16, but I wish there were more plus sizes available.
Fit and Silhouette
Within the first few wears, I was honestly shocked by how comfy these pants are. The fabric is soft and cool-to-the-touch without feeling slippery—aka you won't overheat when your office (*cough*) blasts the heat. I like how the waistband sits comfortably at your belly button, creating subtle shape without being constricting. That's partially because of the elastic ruching at the back, which offers extra give where other high-waist pants might feel restrictive. Even after sitting in these trousers at the office for 8 hours or longer, I never felt claustrophobic.
I'm kinda shocked to report that the 32-inch inseam was almost—dare I say, a little too long?—when worn with low sneakers or flats. According to Quince's size guidelines, anyone taller than 5'7" should order the 32-inch inseam, but I honestly think anyone shorter than 5'8" could get away with the 30-inch inseam, especially if you're a fan of flats or slim sneakers. Shoppers 5'4" and under are recommended to buy the 28-inch inseam, per the brand's size chart.
Styling Tips
Even if you're wearing the pants with a T-shirt, your outfit still feels elevated thanks to subtle details like the pleated front. However, I like that you don't necessarily have to serve ~corporate chic~ every time you put 'em on: the wide-leg silhouette keeps this otherwise preppy look feeling very relaxed. You could style them just as easily with a pair of sneakers as easily as you could a pair of kitten heels. Bonus points for the belt loops that give you even more accessorizing opportunities and the deep pockets in both the front and back.
I've found that these pants pair effortlessly with baby tees and bodysuits (great news, since I'm sure you already have a ton, anyway). You can always layer up with an oversized blazer or a cutie cropped jacket for more dimension, but you'll still feel stylishly simple underneath. In the dead of winter, try tucking a chunky sweater into the waistband—and in summer heat, you could easily pair it with a tank top or a breezy blouse. Et voila! Your year-round office wardrobe is complete.
TL;DR Final Thoughts
In my honest opinion, these under-$70 pants are absolutely worth the money if you're in need of an office wardrobe refresh. The budget-friendly price point and timeless silhouette make it so easy to mix and match with your existing clothing—no major shopping haul needed. Plus, the range of colorways will suit so many outfits, and the multiple inseam options feel custom-fit to your height.
Shop your new office wardrobe at Quince
Quince Stretch Cotton Jersey Fitted T-Shirt
Quince Stretch Crepe Pleated Wide Leg Pants
Mongolian Cashmere Crewneck Sweater
Quince 100% European Linen Wide Leg Pants
100% European Linen Vest
Quince 100% Washable Silk Maxi Skirt
Samantha Jones is a Senior Commerce Editor at Hearst Magazines, where she writes and edits across ELLE, Cosmopolitan, House Beautiful, Good Housekeeping, and more. She has close to a decade of editorial experience in the wellness, fashion, and lifestyle space, with bylines at other publications including PEOPLE, Real Simple, Better Homes & Gardens, and Food & Wine. As someone who spent years curating her own personal style, Samantha can often be found reporting on emerging style trends or wear-testing the most underrated jewelry brands for a story. She is also an avid runner and former Division I athlete with particular expertise in workout apparel and running shoes. (In fact, when she’s not at her desk, she’s probably out for a run.)
