Here’s What to Wear With Black Pants for the Office, Date Night, and Beyond

Not to brag, but I’m what some would call a black-pants aficionado—an expert on what to wear with black pants. My closet houses various cuts (wide-leg, tapered, barrel-leg, cargo, you name it) in every conceivable fabrication, from linen and leather to denim and wool. Needless to say, the time-tested staple is the backbone of my fashion-editor wardrobe. In fact, I’d trade every pair of blue jeans I own for just one pair of these sleek trousers.

People go on and on about the wearability of blue jeans, but I’m here to inform you that their versatility has nothing on plain black pants. Those basic pants truly do it all—working hard everywhere from the office to the bar to the playground. The same pair of pants can look utterly relaxed on a Sunday, then tackle a professional dress code come Monday morning. Here’s how to style black pants for nearly every occasion for the season ahead.

For the office

Anyone can pull off a black suit. Make your ensemble feel fresh and spring-appropriate by swapping your dark blazer for a bright white version. Ground the look in classic accessories, like leather flats and bracelet watches, to keep your styling effortless and approachable.

For casual Friday

Anyone who’s ever set foot in a corporate environment has tapped the classic button-up-and-black-pants combo. And I think it’s about time to shake things up. Give the duo a runway feel by tying a coordinating scarf around your neck—or even wearing your favorite dress shirt backward. Finish with sculptural accessories to make the overall look feel even more elevated.

For a dinner date or drinks

Extra-wide pants have been dominating summer’s trend cycle, offering a flowy silhouette that works just as well for professional events as off-duty ones. Split the difference in your own pair with a prim, preppy jacket, luxe snakeskin flats, and chic gold jewelry; you’re all set for a fancy dinner or happy hour.

For shopping with the girls

Black cargos are a streetwear-loving girl’s best friend. Styled with an oversized graphic tee and unexpected loafers, it’s one of the most low-effort, high-impact outfits money can buy. Pull this out for low-key plans with your besties.

For a casual walk

Black trousers offer a blank slate that’s perfect for testing out any aesthetics that have caught your eye. Tap into the gorpcore trend, for example, with a pair of hiking sneakers and a delightfully slouchy sweater. You’d be surprised how laid-back your work pants can look.