If you’ve been browsing workwear pants and wondering if this trend is around to stay, great news! In 2024, the high performance workwear trend is not going anywhere. So, if you’ve been waiting to invest in a pair of men’s work pants, now’s your time to shop.
While I know plenty of guys who reach exclusively for athleisure pants (preferably with a drawstring) since the pandemic, some of you are still interested in pants that zip and button.
“Hard pants” if you will.
If that sounds like you, workwear pants could be a great addition to your wardrobe. Men’s work pants are a stylish and casual alternative to jeans, and look and feel more rugged than chinos.
And while a slim fit will never be “out” when it comes to men’s pants, the regular fit (and even relaxed fit) of work pants is also very in right now.
Want to jump right to the good stuff?
Here’s what you’ll find in this workwear pants guide:
What are workwear pants, anyway?
Super durable, men’s work pants are usually made with a sturdy canvas material and a slightly wider leg. Originally intended for those working in manual labor, these pants are now fair game for guys who work in an office, WFH, and everywhere in between.
While elements like tool pockets and a hammer loop might not be utilized, it’s nice to know they’re there.
How to wear workwear pants?
Here’s the great thing about workwear-inspired bottoms. Much like Team SG’s beloved 5-pocket pants, when it comes to outfit preferences, you can basically wear them instead of jeans in any outfit.
Why? Well, they hold up well and are easy to clean — no dry clean only tags here!
While the sometimes scratchy fabric can be tough to get used to, I bet you’ll appreciate the greater range of motion and mobility you get from the wider leg.
As for the best inseam to opt for? Go a little long, and roll up the pant legs for a modern look and feel.
Workwear outfit inspiration from Instagram
Below, 5 workwear pants outfits to wear right now:
MONDAY
STYLING NOTES: Dress up your workwear pants with a structured sweater and penny loafers.
If you’re feeling extra daring, wear the loafers with white crew-length socks. If you’re worried that you’ll look like an extra from Grease, don’t worry! Wearing gym socks with “real” shoes is actually very in right now. Even GQ agrees!
Want more sweater outfit ideas? You got ’em.
TUESDAY
STYLING NOTES: Keep things casual cool in elevated sneakers and punchy accessories.
WEDNESDAY
STYLING NOTES: Don’t overthink it; you can wear your workwear pants like your favorite jeans or 5-pocket pants.
Think: A bomber, a henley, and skate sneakers combo that would look just as cool with dark denim.
THURSDAY
STYLING NOTES: A high cuffed hem keeps you from getting the dreaded soggy pant bottoms when bad weather hits.
FRIDAY
STYLING NOTES: A camp collar shirt, denim jacket and some lace ups can take your workwear pants out for a drink.
Shop the most stylish men’s workwear pants
Madewell Relaxed Straight Workwear Pants, $128
SG Says: Inspired by vintage workwear, these straight and slouchy canvas pants have old-school reinforced stitching, a longer rise and plenty of pockets.
They’re a breezy, on-trend alternative to chinos. Wear them cuffed for an extra cool factor.
Proof Rover double-knee, straight-fit work pant, $138
SG Says: Moisture-wicking tech infused into the fabric keeps you comfy despite the durable construction.
Lululemon Classic-Fit ABC Pant, $128
SG Says: Not ready to go full “I just got off a construction site” with your pants?
Opt for the lululemon Classic-Fit ABC Pant in their Utilitech fabric. The brand is known for its high-quality materials, and the Utilitech wear like a sturdy pair of jeans, offering more heft than standard chino.
Carhartt WIP double knee cotton-canvas carpenter pants, $150
SG Says: The most “all in” of our workwear pant picks, the panelled double knees on these Carhartt WIP cotton-canvas trousers add an air of authenticity to wearing this trend…even if you’ve never picked up a hammer, let alone a jack hammer.
We like how the style resembles painters’ slacks, and their thoughtfully slouchy fit.
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Want to see more ways to wear your favorite pieces? Check out 5 ways to wear a rugby shirt and Chelsea boots.
