Don't get us wrong, we adore a sweeping 1970s-inspired flare and an airy parachute pant just as much as the next person, but sometimes only a classic trouser shape will do the job (sorry Hailey Bieber).
Cigarette trousers are the silhouette staple that you 100% need in your wardrobe, should you not already own a pair. (In which case, please rectify the situation immediately.)
What are cigarette trousers?
Emerging in the mid-1950s, the slim-fit trouser shape is a sleek, simple style that tends to taper in slightly at the bottom of the leg, finishing just above the ankle. Cigarette trousers were hugely popular among the It-girls of the day – think Marilyn Monroe and Audrey Hepburn – unsurprising, given how not only flattering but also versatile the shape has proven itself to be.
MORE: Winter wardrobe: how to add colour in 7 simple ways
The beauty of the style lies not in its ability to steal the show – in fact, cigarette trousers are characteristically understated, serving as the structural foundation of a solid outfit. Instead, the style is a sartorial saviour that will come to your aid during your hour of need, especially when only a tailored element will add that much-coveted air of sophistication.
AMI Alexandre Mattiussi's SS23 show was all about classic shapes that capsule wardrobe devotees could rally behind. Staple shifts and longline blazers got a look in alongside cigarette pants, via iterations in crisp white and inky black.
But fear not, for the mid-range brands too have you covered. Theory, Reiss, and Ami Paris all offer quality versions of the tailored staple, at more affordable price points than their designer counterparts. Searching for a solid post-payday investment? Look no further…
Hello! Fashion shares 6 ultra-flattering ways to style cigarette trousers:
With a waistcoat
Mango Boreal tailored trousers, £35.99, John Lewis
SHOP NOW
READ: Winter style inspo: must-follow fashion influencers to boost your outfit game
RELATED: Plaid skirt outfits: 8 different ways to wear the look
With a peplum jacket
Joanne slim-fit tailored trousers, £98, Reiss
SHOP NOW
With a neutral jacket
Rice crepe trousers, £240, Theory
SHOP NOW
With classic stilettos
Grey wool cigarette-fit trousers, £260, Ami Paris
SHOP NOW
With a bouclé jacket
Joseph Coleman leather slim-fit pants, £995, Net-A-Porter
SHOP NOW
With a matching blazer
Akris Maxima stretch-cotton tapered pants, £610, Net-A-Porter
SHOP NOW
With pointed white boots
Navy slim-leg trousers, £69, Karen Millen
SHOP NOW
Like this story? Sign up to our Hello! Fashion newsletter to get your weekly 'Fashion Fix' delivered straight to your inbox.
HELLO!'s selection is editorial and independently chosen – we only feature items our editors love and approve of. HELLO! may collect a share of sales or other compensation from the links on this page. To find out more visit our FAQ page.