Best Work Pants For Women 2024, Tested And Reviewed - Forbes Vetted

A great pair of work pants can be dressed up or down, pairing effortlessly with everything from a crisp button-down to a classic white T-shirt. After testing a variety of options over several weeks, we found the Quince Ultra-Stretch Ponte Straight Leg Pant to be the best work pants for women overall: This pair has a classic, straight-leg silhouette and is available in four inseam lengths. If you’re looking for a business-casual option, we recommend the Everlane Straight Leg Pant, which have a flattering high waist and a chic cropped hem.

Our tester tried nine styles to determine the best dress pants for women.

During our testing process, we evaluated each pick for overall versatility, comfort and range of movement. In addition to our nine winners, we rounded up six additional picks—all recommended by real-world professionals—that suit specific needs, fashion tastes and budgets. Here, all the best work pants for women that we highly recommend for your nine-to-five days.

Quince

Sizes: XS to XL | Inseam lengths: 26 to 32 inches | Colors: 9 total, including Black and Ecru | Fabric: 67% rayon, 28% nylon, 5% spandex | Waist type: Pull-on waistband

Quince’s best-selling pointe pants come in four different inseam lengths, which is great for those who don’t want to take a trip to the tailor. They’re designed to be as comfortable as yoga pants but with a classic straight-leg design for work. This pair comes in a good range of colors too, so you can buy multiples and mix and match with other key pieces in your wardrobe.

What our tester says: “My priorities when it comes to work pants are comfort, practicality and style. I won’t put up with any pair that is too tight or binding or requires maintenance in terms of ironing, hemming or alterations. I own a few pieces from Quince, and I like the Ponte Straight Leg for the pull-on waistband, high-quality fabric that doesn’t crease and streamlined silhouette. I do wish the fit was a bit more tailored—the leg is very straight to the point of boxy—and that these had pockets. But for the price, this is a solid work pant.”

Abercrombie & Fitch

Sizes: 24 to 34 | Inseam lengths: 25.5 to 29.5 inches | Colors: 4 total, including Dark Grey and Light Taupe | Fabric: 41% recycled polyester, 32% polyester, 21% viscose, 6% elastane | Waist type: Zip fly, hook-and-bar closure with hidden interior button

Abercrombie & Fitch might not be the first place that comes to mind for workwear. But the retailer has been steadily making over its image, emphasizing a clean, chic and polished aesthetic that’s on par with Everlane and Zara. The Slim Straight Tailored Pant proves the point, with a sleek fit that’s office-appropriate but also comfortable with a bit of stretch.

What our tester says: “I was pleasantly surprised to feel the quality of the fabric on these pants—the effect is similar to merino wool, even though it’s made with a blend of synthetics, which keeps the price affordable. The pleated, tapered leg is polished and chic, and the high-rise waist is flattering. The only drawback is the lack of pockets and size-wise, I found these run a little big.”

Madewell

Sizes: 00 to 16 | Inseam lengths: 27.5 to 33 inches | Colors: 4 total, including True Black and Harvest Moon | Fabric: 48% Tencel lyocell, 33% cotton, 19% linen | Waist type: Zipper fly, double button closure

These high-rise, straight-leg pants have a button front and tab waistband, which makes them amazingly comfortable yet professional. The Harlow is a bestseller for Madewell, and the pants come in multiple colors and lengths. Just keep in mind that this pick is prone to wrinkling, so you’ll have to commit to regular ironing to keep them looking sharp.

What our tester says: “In my testing process, I tried on many wide-leg pants that were far too voluminous for an average person to wear without being swallowed by the pants. This pair strikes the right balance for a look that’s stylish and on-trend. The fabric is lightweight—similar to a cotton chino material—so it will wrinkle if you don’t hang these pants. For that reason, I wouldn’t recommend them for travel or very formal workplaces.”

lululemon

Sizes: 0 to 20 | Inseam lengths: 32 inches | Colors: 3 total, including True Navy and Black | Fabric: 81% nylon, 19% Lycra elastane | Waist type: Pull-on waistband

If you dream of wearing yoga pants to work but looking polished at the same time, consider Lululemon’s top-rated collection of stylish bottoms. Designed to be worn beyond the studio, the High-Rise Ribbed Mini-Flared Pant has a smooth waistband so it lays flat and is cut from the brand’s lightweight, breathable (and completely opaque, squat-proof) Nulu fabric.

What our tester says: “Lululemon is continuing to move into more casual, everyday-wear and their leggings are truly the best in terms of fit, fabric and style. We’ve tested multiple pairs from the brand, and they never disappoint. This legging fits true to size for Lululemon (which runs small so it’s worth trying on a few pairs to determine your size in the brand; I always go up to 2 full sizes than what I normally wear in other pants). These leggings have a nice ribbed texture and the kick-flare hem is subtle. Keep in mind the lack of pockets, which might be a dealbreaker for some.”

Spanx

Sizes: XS to 3X | Inseam lengths: 24 to 29 inches | Colors: Classic Black | Fabric: Rayon, nylon, elastane | Waist type: Pull-on waistband

New York City-based fashion stylist Audree Kate López reevaluated her wardrobe during the pandemic. “While working from home, I ditched every uncomfortable pair of pants and opted for pairs that felt like sweatpants but could also pass as dress pants,” she says. One of her favorite styles is the Spanx Perfect Kick Flare Pant. They’re ultra-stretchy, have an elastic waistband and feature a hidden tummy-control panel in the front. They’re available in petite, regular and tall lengths.

What our tester says: “Shapewear is typically not the most comfortable but Spanx has put a lot of thought into its designs. While the fit on these pants is meant to be tight and sculpting, the fabric is thick and extremely well-made, which eliminates any visible panty lines. If you’re not used to shapewear you might not enjoy these pants for all-day wear but for an event or a business party, they are excellent.”

American Giant

Sizes: XS to XL | Inseam lengths: 27.5 inches | Colors: 3 total, including Super Black and Beech | Fabric: 54% modal, 40% nylon, 6% spandex | Waist type: Pull-on waistband with drawstring

Whether you’re commuting or traveling for work, you don’t want pants that are constricting, but you also don’t want pants that appear too casual. American Giant’s joggers strike the right balance, and are cut from ponte fabric, which has some structure and retains its shape, creating a neat and polished look.

What our tester says: “I have been wearing these pants non-stop. American Giant has revamped its lineup and the quality of the fabrics is excellent. These joggers are comfortable, stylish and look great with white sneakers or sneaker boots. The only negative is that they come in one core color—black—and two limited-edition colors. But everything else about these pants is perfect.”

Everlane

Sizes: 00 to 16 | Inseam lengths: 26.5 to 28.5 inches | Colors: 6 total, including Black and Dark Forest | Fabric: 98% organic cotton, 2% elastane | Waist type: Zip fly, double button waistband

Everlane’s Straight-Leg pant is a bestseller that straddles the line between business and casual. It’s cut from sturdy cotton twill that holds up well to wear and tear and the cropped fit is versatile for wearing with flats or ankle booties. This has a high-rise waist and no elastic waist, so keep in mind that the fabric is not stretchy.

What our tester says: “The Straight-Leg pant really put Everlane on the map for stylish workwear and it’s a classic bestseller for the brand. I’ve worn this pair in multiple sizes and colors, and I find it goes with almost everything in my work wardrobe. The high waist is definitely high—it hits right under the rib cage—and I did find the pants shrunk a tiny bit after washing.”

J.Crew

Sizes: 00 to 24 | Inseam lengths: 24.3 to 28.3 inches | Colors: 3 total, including Heather Graphite and Navy | Fabric: 64% polyester, 31% viscose, 5% elastane | Waist type: Zip fly, hook-and-bar closure

J.Crew has perfected the art of the work pant, and this slim cropped bestseller proves the point. It has a flattering 11-inch waistline that sits above the hips, and it’s cut from four-season stretch fabric that’s flexible but also retains its shape (no more sagging at the knees or rear). The front pockets are designed to hold you in while also being really comfortable. Note that we tried a previous version of this pant with a slightly lower waistband, but we chose to feature this newer version as it’s more readily available online.

What our tester says: “I’ve worn different iterations of J.Crew’s slim work pants over the years, and they’re a staple for many women. This is a classic fit and silhouette, so you can wear the pants with many different outfits, dressing your look up or down for different days. I have found that J.Crew’s fabric is not always the highest quality, but that’s the compromise for the affordable price, and you can often find their pants on sale.”

Reformation

Sizes: 0 to 12 | Inseam lengths: 29.8 to 32 inches | Colors: 6 total, including Khaki and Charcoal | Fabric: 100% Tencel lyocell | Waist type: Zip fly, button closure

New York City-based fashion stylist Traci Franklin considers Reformation a top choice for work pants. “It’s the first brand that comes to mind,” she says. You can shop a variety of slim to wide-leg silhouettes; the Mason pant is a bestseller for its relaxed fit, variety of colors and eucalyptus-based Tencel fabric that can be recycled and feels soft on the skin. Also great: This style comes in a petite length, too.

What our tester says: “The material is very soft, falls nicely and is breathable. On the downside, it’s also prone to wrinkling so you will need to steam iron these and neatly hang them to avoid a rumpled look. The leg is definitely wide, and the length is long, which is great if you’re tall. And if you’re on the short side, this pant comes in a petite size, too.”

The best work pants for women vary significantly based on the formality of your workplace and your personal style. For more suggestions, we reached out to members of our professional network for their favorite work pants, all of which they have personally tested and worn on the job.

Nili Lotan

This topstitched front pocket style is a versatile pant that transitions easily from day to night. “These pants dress up or down—they work with a flat or heel or boot—and I can wear them to meetings on a building site or in my accountant’s office and still go out to dinner and feel chic,” says interior designer Nicki Rose.

Aritzia.com

This style is a real style workhorse. "These pants come in basically every length, every waist size, every color, every material, and they're machine washable,” says digital marketing director Alison Marsh. “I truly don’t know why I’d would wear another pair.” They’re available in four lengths and more than a dozen office-friendly colors, so you’re bound to find something that matches your wardrobe.

Veronica Beard

Fun button detailing makes these pants special, the fitted-but-not-tight silhouette makes them office appropriate, and they look chic with heels or flats. "These are my favorite work pants because they're both high waisted and stretchy," says investment specialist Tia Mahaffy.

MOTHER

"I am a big fan of Mother, just not in blue denim for the office,” says real estate executive Lauren Corrinet. “The variety of styles is great, the look is polished with a blazer or sweater, and there is the hint of casual that is so much more the norm in offices today." This 28.25-inch inseam pair has a clean hem so they’re a great length to pair with anything from ballet flats to clogs to a chunky heel.

Boden

Boden creates women’s clothing that has both classic and unexpected details. We love the high waist, crisp creasing and cool red side stripe on this pair. They’re fun and stylish without being unprofessional, and the heaviness of the fabric and the drape makes these feel luxe.

Amazon

If you work in a hospital or doctor’s office, your everyday work pants may look a bit different than something someone would wear in a boardroom. “I love Figs scrub pants for anyone in the healthcare industry,” says obstetrician gynecologist Kate Nash. “They are super comfortable, easy to wash and they don't wear out. They’re also tailored and cuter than regular hospital scrubs.”

The Forbes Vetted team has published dozens of fashion stories, including firsthand tested reviews of the best leggings, cashmere sweaters and work bags for women.

To narrow down the options for the best work pants for women, we read hundreds of product reviews and evaluated options from both established and emerging brands.

Forbes Vetted fashion editor Kari Molvar tested out a variety of work pants, including the ... [+] straight-leg pair from Everlane.

When picking out a pair of pants for your work wardrobe, there are a few factors you should keep in mind. These include material, fit, color and the inclusion (or lack of) pockets. Here’s what to consider:

The material of your work pants will determine how likely they are to wrinkle as well as their breathability. “The right material depends on the style of pant,” says fashion stylist Traci Franklin. “For a slim leg silhouette, look for a poly blend or fabric that has stretch.” Polyester and rayon blends often have a sophisticated drape, giving them and elevated appearance. Pants with stretch—like the Spanx Perfect Pant and Abercrombie & Fitch’s Slim Straight Tailored Pant—offer comfort when sitting at a desk and commuting. Linen, while lightweight and nice for summer, wrinkles quickly so bear that in mind. López prefers finding a wool-blend or cotton-based pants for comfort.

The importance of finding the right fit can’t be overstated. You want work pants to fit comfortably around the waist and hips, offering enough room for movement without being overly tight or too loose. The overall silhouette is largely based on personal preference: Slim-leg pants are the most classic fit while wide-legged pants are a slouchier, more relaxed option. The length of the pants should also be considered; ideally, they should hover just above the ground with shoes on. For those who are taller, look for brands that offer tall sizes or extended sizes. Many brands—such as Spanx, J.Crew and Madewell—offer work pants in different inseam lengths, which is invaluable, especially if you want to avoid having to get them tailored.

Opt for colors and styles that can be easily paired with a variety of tops and shoes. While neutral colors like black, gray, navy and beige are versatile and professional, introducing a pop of color or a unique pattern can add a personal touch and show off your style. Additionally, it’s worthwhile to invest in pants that can transition from office wear to after-work events since you’ll get plenty of mileage out of them.

Functionality in work pants often comes down to pockets. Look for pockets that are deep enough to hold essentials like a phone or keys. However, it's important to ensure that the pockets don't add bulk and that they lay flat against the body. Some modern designs offer innovative solutions like hidden or zippered pockets, which can be especially stylish and practical. If you prefer elastic waistband-style work pants, keep in mind that many are pocket-less.

Rachel Nicole, a personal stylist based in Atlanta who has styled for Prada and Vogue, is constantly on the move. Whether she’s meeting with her team in the office, running around town shopping for clothes, or going to clients’ homes to style them, she is always wearing pants. “They’re comfortable, functional, and easy to dress up or dress down,” she says. “And there are so many great styles out there to choose from these days.” Here, she shares tips for nailing the casual but polished work look that she is known for.

What kind of pants are you wearing to work these days?

“Everyone is moving away from tight, tailored pants. The trend now is wide-leg, relaxed pants that have some stretch, which is great for people like me who are constantly rushing around from place to place. I do a lot of walking during the day while pulling clothes from stores, and I am bending and kneeling when styling clients, so I need pants that offer unrestricted movement but still look professional. The wide-leg style checks those boxes.”

Voluminous wide-leg trousers seem hard to pull off. What’s the secret?

“If you’re shorter or don’t have a very defined waist, choose a flat front style instead of a pleated one. These will be a little straighter through the leg and not as voluminous; they won’t overwhelm petite figures. Also, wear a fitted top or tuck in your top (at least in the front) and wear a belt to accentuate your waist.”

What kind of shoes do you wear with wide-leg pants?

“I pair them with a sneakers, like the Adidas Samba, or pointed toe flats. For meetings, I usually add a belt and wear them with a block heel or kitten heel in a color that coordinates with the shade of my pants. For example, if I am wearing white pants, I wear a neutral heel. I just avoid wearing wedges with wide-leg pants because they look clunky.”

What pants do you wear when you travel for work?

“The relaxed, wide leg look works for travel, too. I wear them with sneakers and layer a blazer over a T-shirt in case I get cold. I also like to wear an elevated jogger while traveling. They are cut like a jogger, but made of a luxe fabric like silk, satin or crepe with a tapered leg.”

What about for going out at night?

“Sometimes my job requires going out in the evening, in which case I often wear flare-leg pants, which are a compromise between skinny pants and relaxed ones, or dressy wide leg pants.”

You seem to switch between flats and heels pretty often during the day. How does that work with the hem of your pants?

“When it comes to pants, tailoring is everything. When I get my pants tailored, I bring both heels and flats and ask the tailor to hem them somewhere in the middle, so they work with heels and flats and I can change shoes during the day if needed.”

Given that you are always on the go and moving around, what fabrics do you like?

“As much as I love linen, I don’t wear it when working because it wrinkles too easily, unless I’m wear a long jacket that will cover the wrinkles in the thigh area that occur when you sit down. I usually wear pants that have a bit of elastic in them so they don’t wrinkle as easily, and I try to stay away from pants that are purely polyester because it’s not breathable.”

What do you do if you spill coffee or get a stain on your pants during the work day?

“It happens! I love white pants, but I usually wear dark colored pants during the day for this reason. So if I do get something on them, it won’t be obvious.”

How do you feel about pockets?

“It’s always nice to have a back pocket to tuck my phone into when I’m styling a client. I always need my phone handy to take pictures. Just be careful when wearing more fitted pants; sometimes the on-seam pockets will gap or pull.”

Do you always choose pants over a skirt or a dress for work?

“Pretty much. They are just more practical, and they can look more relaxed and stylish. Most of my clients are executives who pre-Covid were wearing suits and pencil skirts. Now they just want to look to casual but put together—and feel comfortable. Pants are a little dressier than jeans but have an effortless vibe that you don’t always get with skirts and dresses.”