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13 Best Black Work Pants for Women, According to Editors and *Glowing* Reviews

Because going back to the office IRL is already hard enough.

Headshot of Chaise SandersBy Chaise Sanders
victoria thomas seen wearing jacquemus black cut out blazer, hm black slit pants, zara black leather kitten heels, saint laurent black leather bag on march 20, 2023 in cologne, germany photo by jeremy moellergetty imagespinterest icon
Jeremy Moeller//Getty Images

If the pandemic taught me anything, it's that comfortable pants >>> everything. Now that many of us are back at an office (whether hybrid, full-time, or just for the occasional meeting), there's a good chance you've been forced to wear real pants and put together work outfits once again. And I get it—after so long of living in leggings and the comfiest sweatpants, I still feel a little rusty getting dressed for the office, even now. Luckily for us corporate baddies, the genius invention of black work pants is here to make life easier as the bread and butter of any office ensemble.

Black work pants are the chameleons of office wear and pack a sophisticated punch that your favorite jeans could never. Not to mention, they transition from your desk to happy hour with little to no effort at all—and can even be dressed up or down on weekends. So, whether you want to go full-on plazacore with a tailored blazer or keep it super casual with an oversized tee and sneakers, consider black trousers the MVP of your work wardrobe.

Our top picks for the best black work pants of 2023:

  • 1
    Colette Cropped Wide-Leg Ponte Pants

    Best Cropped Wide-Leg Work Pants

    Maeve Colette Cropped Wide-Leg Ponte Pants

    $70 at Anthropologie
    Read more
  • 2
    Tailored Tapered Pant in Linen-Blend

    Best Linen Blend Work Pants

    Madewell Tailored Tapered Pant in Linen-Blend

    Read more
  • 3
    Sloane Tailored Pant

    Best Tailored Work Pants

    Abercrombie Sloane Tailored Pant

    Read more
  • 4
    Moro Pocket Signature Ponte Pants

    Best Work Pants That Feel Like Leggings

    Universal Standard Moro Pocket Signature Ponte Pants

    Read more
  • 5
    AirEssentials Cropped Wide Leg Pant

    Best Cropped Work Pants

    Spanx AirEssentials Cropped Wide Leg Pant

    Read more


With sooo many work pant options out there, finding the right pair can feel like a full-time job in itself, which is where I come in to help. With all-day comfort and style in mind, I did a little digging to find the absolute best black work pants for women. And by digging, I mean I asked the Cosmo team for their favorite editor-approved picks, scrolled through hundreds and hundreds of internet reviews to find the best, and tried on a few pair of my own. Below, the 13 best black work pants worth buying right now.

1
Best Cropped Wide-Leg Work Pants

Maeve Colette Cropped Wide-Leg Ponte Pants

Colette Cropped Wide-Leg Ponte Pants
1
Best Cropped Wide-Leg Work Pants

Maeve Colette Cropped Wide-Leg Ponte Pants

Now 42% Off
$70 at Anthropologie
Credit: Anthropologie
Pros
  • Flattering high-rise design
  • Breathable fabric
Cons
  • Fabric stretches out after a few wears, according to some reviewers

The perfect wide-leg pants don't exi—okay, step aside, because these rave-reviewed wide-leg pants have officially entered the room. These fan-favorite flared trousers give that easy-going cool girl aesthetic that we've all been looking for. If the super flattering high-rise, stretchy fabric combo has you grabbing for these every single day, don't worry—this is a judgement free zone.

  • Material: 69% viscose, 27% nylon, 4% elastane
  • Size Range: 23-34
  • Fit: Petite, Standard, Tall, and Plus

THE REVIEW: "As a short girl, it's tough to find cropped, wide-leg pants that *actually* fall at the ankle," says Cosmo editor Corinne Sullivan. "But these gorgeous ponte pants are available in a wide range of sizes (including petite, tall, and plus-size) so you can find the perfect fit. I love the high rise, the chic wide leg, and the thick yet suuuuper breathable viscose and nylon fabric. For me, these are a closet staple."

2
Best Linen Blend Work Pants

Madewell Tailored Tapered Pant in Linen-Blend

Tailored Tapered Pant in Linen-Blend
2
Best Linen Blend Work Pants

Madewell Tailored Tapered Pant in Linen-Blend

Credit: Madewell
Pros
  • Breezy, lightweight material that's ideal for warmer weather
  • Elastic waistband
Cons
  • Some reviewers say they run large
  • Material feels thin

I call these the Hannah Montana pants because you really do get the best of both worlds. Designed with a breezy, eco-friendly linen blend, these best-selling track pants are where sporty meets polished, thanks to the subtle pleats and partially elasticized waist that won't dig into your organs while sitting all day.

  • Material: 53% linen, 47% viscose
  • Size Range: 00-16
  • Fit: Plus, Standard, Petite, and Tall

THE REVIEW: According to associate editor Chaise Sanders, "I just got these pants and can't believe I've gone this long without having them in my closet. I have to stop myself from wearing them everyday because they're lightweight, breezy and the perfect crop."

3
Best Tailored Work Pants

Abercrombie Sloane Tailored Pant

Sloane Tailored Pant
3
Best Tailored Work Pants

Abercrombie Sloane Tailored Pant

Now 25% Off
Credit: Abercrombie & Fitch
Pros
  • Partially elasticated waistband for a comfortable, but polished fit
  • Available in curve fit as well as short, regular, and long lengths
Cons
  • Inconsistent sizing
  • Can run small in the waist

Twelve-year-old, cami-wearing me would've never guessed that I'd be right back at Abercrombie as a 20-something looking for her next favorite pair of work pants...yet here we are. Abercrombie's high-waisted tailored pants are available in three different lengths (short, regular, and long) as well as in the brand's Curve Love line fit, which makes it 1000 times easier to find your best fit.

  • Material: 80% polyester, 16% viscose, 4% elastane
  • Size Range: 23-37
  • Fit: Short, Regular, Long

THE REVIEWS: "I swear by these Abercrombie pants in their Curve Love fit," says senior editor Lauren Alexis Fisher. "It's so hard to find a pair of work pants that a) fit my curves and b) I don't have to get hemmed (I'm 5'2!), and this style in the Short length fits like a dream. They're also easy to dress up or dress down, which is always a bonus."

And according to associate shopping editor Hanna Flanagan, "These are my favorite black pants for work and the weekend!"

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4
Best Work Pants That Feel Like Leggings

Universal Standard Moro Pocket Signature Ponte Pants

Moro Pocket Signature Ponte Pants
4
Best Work Pants That Feel Like Leggings

Universal Standard Moro Pocket Signature Ponte Pants

Credit: Universal Standard
Pros
  • Pilling-resistant material
  • Deep pockets
  • Available in wide range of sizes 4XS-4XL
Cons
  • No options available for inseam customization

If you're like me and don't want to give up leggings just to sit at a desk where no one even sees your full 'fit, these work pants are for you. Made from pilling resistant, mid-weight ponte, they are the ultimate dress up/dress down style designed with a high waist, discreet pockets, and matte black zippers at the ankle.

  • Material: 60% rayon, 35% nylon, 5% elastane
  • Size Range: 00-40
  • Style: With Zipper, Without Zipper, Pintuck

THE REVIEW: As senior astrology editor Erika W. Smith says, "These have been my go-to black pants for years now. They are super comfy, but still look more dressed up than leggings."

5
Best Cropped Work Pants

Spanx AirEssentials Cropped Wide Leg Pant

AirEssentials Cropped Wide Leg Pant
5
Best Cropped Work Pants

Spanx AirEssentials Cropped Wide Leg Pant

Credit: Spanx
Pros
  • Lightweight fabric that can be worn all year-round
  • 4-way stretch for a comfier fit
Cons
  • Some may not like the look of the drawstring waistband

Just in case you missed the memo: Spanx aren't just for shapewear anymore! For luxe comfort that feels silky smooth against your skin, these wide-leg pants are your friends. The smoothing fabric looks polished and elevated, but features four-way stretch that's low-key super comfortable. The cropped length is also great for year-round wear and can be styled with sneakers, heels, sandals, and boots.

  • Material: 47% modal, 46% polyester, 7% elastane
  • Size Range: XS-3X
  • Fit: Regular, Tall, Petite

THE REVIEW: "These are the most comfortable pants you will ever own," writes one reviewer. "You can throw them on in the morning to lounge in, or you can dress them up and they look fabulous! The fit is right on, they’re super soft and they hold their shape. You won’t be disappointed!"

6
Best Soft Wide-Leg Work Pants

Aam Wide Leg Pant

Wide Leg Pant
6
Best Soft Wide-Leg Work Pants

Aam Wide Leg Pant

Credit: Aam
Pros
  • High-waisted and wide-leg fit is easy to style with wide range of tops and shoes
Cons
  • Only available in up to a size XL and no custom length options

Say hello to the perfect pair of high-waisted, wide-leg pants. Made with a soft and smooth lyocell fabric and complete with hidden inseam pockets that won't do that annoying puff out thing, these are perfect for tucking all your tops into.

  • Material: 100% lyocell
  • Size Range: XS-XL

THE REVIEW: "The fabric of this pant is impossibly soft, I don’t even know what to compare it to," one review reads. "And it stays that way even after washing! I love the 'boho' fit of these—they’re flowy without make me feel boxy on the bottom."

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7
Best Cargo Work Pants

Mango Pocket Cargo Pants

Pocket Cargo Pants
7
Best Cargo Work Pants

Mango Pocket Cargo Pants

Now 22% Off
Credit: Mango
Pros
  • Breathable fabric
  • Tons of pockets
Cons
  • Cropped leg may not be a favorite for everyone

Cargo pants are having their moment rn, so it only makes sense to have them make a special appearance in the office. Not only are these pants functional, thanks to all those pockets, but they give off that chill, cool-girl aesthetic.

  • Material: 92% polyamide, 8% elastane
  • Size Range: 2-12

THE REVIEW: "I love the fit, feel and functionality of these pants!" says editor Corinne Sullivan. "They are super light, incredibly comfy, and have large pockets, which is always a plus."

8
Best Relaxed Work Pants

Everlane Easy Pant

Easy Pant
8
Best Relaxed Work Pants

Everlane Easy Pant

Credit: Everlane
Pros
  • Soft, lightweight fabric
Cons
  • Some say the fabric and fit feels like scrubs

It's kinda in the name—these Everlane pants are easy like Sunday morning (minus the Sunday scaries). Thanks to its lightweight cotton fabric, breathable silhouette, and pull-on waistband, getting dressed for the office has never been easier.

  • Material: 98% cotton, 2% elastane
  • Size Range: XXS-XL

THE REVIEW: "If you want to accentuate your waist, but still have a lightweight, quality cotton pant, these are for you," one tester writes. "I love the small waist, wide leg look! They are so versatile. I have them in 4 colors! Highly recommend."

9
Best Wide-Leg Pants For Plus Sizes

Princess Polly Archer Pants Black Curve

Archer Pants Black Curve
9
Best Wide-Leg Pants For Plus Sizes

Princess Polly Archer Pants Black Curve

Credit: Princess Polly
Pros
  • Available in sizes 14-20
Cons
  • Non-stretch material may not be comfortable for everyone's taste

As a curvy girl, I understand the headache that is finding high-waisted pants that fit the thighs and the waist. Luckily, Princess Polly's line designed just for gals like me is here to help with redesigns of their best-selling fan-favorites, like this pair of classic black work pants.

  • Material: 95% polyester, 5% spandex
  • Size Range: 14-20

THE REVIEW: "These are my go-to black pants," one review reads. "I have two pairs now because I love these so much. The fit is great, the pants are cute and the quality is great. Would recommend to other people, as they are so comfy yet so cute."

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10
Best Slim-Fit Work Pants

Spanx The Perfect Pant, Slim Straight

The Perfect Pant, Slim Straight
10
Best Slim-Fit Work Pants

Spanx The Perfect Pant, Slim Straight

Credit: Spanx
Pros
  • 4-way stretch fabric for ultimate comfort
  • Designed with hidden core shaping technology
  • Easy pull-on design
Cons
  • Fabric is heavier than expected, according to some reviews
  • Pricey

If you haven't heard of Spanx's best-selling 'The Perfect Pants,' allow me to introduce you. Available in a tonnn of different fits (from wide-leg and flares to this super slim, straight-leg style), the brand's signature pants are made of a super-smoothing yet soft fabric that feels comfortable but looks elevated. If you're looking for slim-fitting black work pants, this ankle-length pair is ideal for showing off your best work heels (or flats!)

  • Material: 68% rayon, 28% nylon, 4% elastane
  • Size Range: XS - 3X
  • Fit: Regular, Petite, and Tall

THE REVIEW: "I have both the wide-leg and slim-fit styles of The Perfect Pants by Spanx, and I love how smoothing (yet still comfy) the fabric is," senior editor Lauren Alexis Fisher says. "These slim-fit pants are great for showing off a good pair of heels and looking super pulled together without sacrificing comfort. The only downside, for me, is the fact that they don't have a button or zipper, so the fit can look a bit legging-like across the hips when styled with certain tops."

11
Best Budget Work Pants

Pull & Bear Pants With Seam Details

Pants With Seam Details
11
Best Budget Work Pants

Pull & Bear Pants With Seam Details

Credit: Pull & Bear
Pros
  • Won't break the bank
Cons
  • No option for tall fit

Simple, versatile, and classic—all the features you could wish for in a perfect pair of work pants. There are two lengths available: standard and petite, and the blend makes them both soft and comfortable.

  • Material: 62% polyester, 33% viscose, 5% elastane
  • Size Range: XXS-XXL
  • Fit: Standard and Petite

THE REVIEW: According to associate editor Venezia Moorer, "These are super-flattering, so I got them in every color."

12
Best Black Skinny Jeans for Work

Old Navy Mid-Rise Black Rockstar Super Skinny Jeans

Mid-Rise Black Rockstar Super Skinny Jeans
12
Best Black Skinny Jeans for Work

Old Navy Mid-Rise Black Rockstar Super Skinny Jeans

Now 50% Off
Credit: Old Navy
Pros
  • Soft and breathable material
Cons
  • Inconsistent sizing, according to some reviewers

Sorry, Gen-Z...skinny jeans aren't going anywhere soon. These are some of Old Navy's best-selling items for a reason and they go with just about anything your heart desires.

  • Material: 73% cotton, 25% polyester, 2% spandex
  • Size Range: 00-30
  • Fit: Regular, Tall, Petite

THE REVIEW: "A little higher waisted than I expected but still SUPER comfy," one tester writes. "These have been my favorite jeans for over 10 years. I love them!"

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13
Best Vegan Leather Work Pants

Wilfred The Melina Super High-Rise Pant

The Melina Super High-Rise Pant
13
Best Vegan Leather Work Pants

Wilfred The Melina Super High-Rise Pant

Now 34% Off
Credit: Artizia
Pros
  • Flattering super high-rise design
Cons
  • Runs small

Aritzia girlies get it—the fan-favorite Melina pants have a universally flattering fit and are made of vegan leather that looks and feels just like the real thing.

  • Material: 100% polyurethane
  • Size Range: 00-16

THE REVIEW: As one buyer writes, "Wasn’t sure how they’d fit since I am curvy with a smaller waist but super happy and can’t believe how nice they contour!"

Why trust 'Cosmo'

linebreak

Chaise Sanders is an Associate Editor at Cosmo, who covers everything from beauty and style (anyone need a new straw hat for your European summer?) to entertainment and lifestyle (oh, and here's some vacay Instagram captions for said Euro trip). With 3 years of digital editorial experience, she's an expert at researching and sourcing from our amazing team who literally have alll the black pants recs a gal could ask for. Basically, she's curated the internet to bring you the chicest options like it’s her job (because it is, heh).

Plus, here at Cosmo, we have pretty high standards when it comes to clothing and accessory recommendations. Each of our shopping articles adheres to the 15 Percent Pledge and includes pieces for all sizes. And you better believe we read those product reviews (and test many of the brands IRL) so you don't have to. You're welcome!

Headshot of Chaise Sanders
Chaise Sanders
Associate Editor

Chaise Sanders is an Associate Editor at Cosmopolitan, where she covers anything from lifestyle and beauty to entertainment and style. Wanna upgrade your skincare game? She's got you covered with the best facial cleansing brushes. Or maybe you're in need of a new true crime show to binge? Got that covered too! Prior to joining the Cosmo team, Chaise was an editor at Country Living (also part of the Hearst fam) where she interviewed celebs like Dolly Parton, LeAnn Rimes and even Martha Stewart. Now, as one of the Big Apple's newest residents, there's a good chance that you can catch her checking out an Insta-worthy cafe or spending way to much $$$ in vintage stores.

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