Can we talk about pull-on pants for a sec? You know, that category of clothing that walks a precarious tightrope between style triumph and fashion disaster? We’ve all seen the unfortunate versions: ballooning around the legs like you’re auditioning for the circus, or so wrinkled you look like you just rolled out of a week-long nap.
But here’s the thing—when done right, pull-on pants can be the actual jam. They spare you from determining whatever denim silhouette is trending this month (wide-leg? skinny? balloon? Who can keep up?), while offering that holy grail combination of comfort and put-together polish we’re all chasing.
This spring, it’s all about breathable fabrics that move with you. Linen, cotton, and that miracle textile lyocell are having a moment, creating pants that transition seamlessly from morning school drop-offs to work presentations to evening patio drinks. These aren’t your pandemic sweatpants in disguise—they’re legitimate fashion pieces that just happen to feel like you’re getting away with something.
The elastic waistband—once fashion’s dirty little secret—is now the feature we’re actually looking for. Because let’s be honest, after years of button closures digging into our midsections, don’t we deserve pants that just…understand us? And while there are certainly bigger issues demanding our attention these days (gestures broadly at the state of everything), finding small comforts while our collective nerves are frayed to bits feels like necessary self-care, not frivolity.
Whether you’re looking for something polished enough for the office or casual enough for weekend adventures, there’s a pull-on pant waiting to revolutionize your wardrobe this season. The best part? You’ll look like you tried, when really all you did was pull them on and walk out the door.
Our favorite pull-on pants
Beyond Yoga
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$108
These may just be the perfect travel pant. They don’t wrinkle, the wide waistband doesn’t roll down, and they can go from chic to sporty depending on your shoe of choice. And as a petite person, I love that the style’s “wide leg” is loose but not “enough fabric to make three more pair wide”. That said, they do run on the larger side but conveniently come in both regular and short length.
Gap
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$79.95
Gap is having a real comeback moment, from the boyfriend joggers every influencer seems to be on about to the logo hoodies that pop up regularly on Tik Tok. But us? We’re here for the flowy pants, thankyouverymuch. The linen and rayon blend is perfect for those days when it’s too hot for jeans but you’re not in the mood for shorts.
Everlane
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$110
Everlane has the timeless game on lock as far as I’m concerned. I purchased their now cult-favorite Utility Barrel Pants years ago and still wear them on a regular basis. (Honestly, that’s the case for pretty much every piece I’ve purchased from them since 2016.) With the success of that style, they’ve expanded into several other versions, including the Easy Barrel Pant which is next on my buy list. I love the look of the cotton twill which is relaxed but structured and the ankle length is great for shorties like me.
Quince
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$39.90
These breezy gauze pants from Quince are a beach vacation staple. The silhouette isn’t too baggy and the length is a bit on the cropped side. The fabric is super lightweight with a bit of texture for maximum breathability.
Athleta
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$69 $89
With over 4K 5-star reviews, this Athleta best-seller has been raved about for years now for their laid-back polish–and the fact they don’t show your underwear. (I mean, that doesn’t seem like it should be too much to ask but here we are.) Stylish and functional details like inside ankle slits, zip pockets, and a matching drawstring elevate the look and make them versatile enough to wear with everything from flats to sneakers. All that while still kind of feeling like pajamas? We’ll take it.
Old Navy
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$24 $39.99
If you’re in the market for a soft, airy option that won’t break the bank, we’d go with the High-Waisted Crinkle Gauze Super Wide-Leg Pants from Old Navy. The wide leg features a slit at the side that looks great with sandals and thanks to the double weave cotton fabric, they don’t feel paper thin. And if you’re into the matchy-matchy look, grab the matching button-down!
J. Crew
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$98
Neutrals are great, but we’re smitten with this sunny hue from J. Crew. An updated version of their beachy Soleil pant, they’re streamlined but casual with a thin waistband and shortened length. And don’t worry about your underwear–they’re fully lined!
Pact
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$74 $88
I admit I’m a sucker for any clothing that gives you options. Like, yes please. I will style this different ways to fit my ever-changing needs and mood. Case in point: the chic Coastal Double Gauze Split Hem Pant from Pact. That long, adorable slit at the ankle? Left loose it’s flowy and fabulous, but if you want to trot along the water without getting wet or just mix up the shape a bit, tie them up for a more harem pant look. And to top it all off, they’re made from the most dreamy organic cotton.
Duer
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$99
Want the comfort of pull-on pants without ditching denim? The Duer Performance Denim Lite Harbour Pant is the answer. They’re stretchy and super lightweight and unless you look down, you’d be convinced you’re actually wearing lounge pants. And thanks to the moisture-wicking and anti-microbial fabric, you can easily wear them all summer long–and maybe even skip a wash now and then.
Carve Designs
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$98
Carve Design’s surf-inspired styles are a fave of mine, especially during the summer. Right now I’m crushing on their Zoe Twill Pant for a whole host of reasons. For one thing, they’re loose but don’t give you that dumpy butt look. (Listen, I’m nothing if not honest.) And that rolled up ankle? Adorbs. They also have enough heft that putting your phone in your pocket doesn’t mean you risk having them fall down to your ankles. Want me to keep going? Fine. They’re ethically made of organic cotton and come in the best colors. I’m sure I’ll think of more.
