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The Best Work Pants for Women in 2023, According to Stylists and Reviews

Head into the office in comfortable, affordable pants you'll actually want to wear.

By Maggie Panos and Rebecca Norris
best work pants for women
Deagreez//Getty Images

Gone are the days when women had to wear dresses and skirts to work. Now, it's just as acceptable to show up to the office in a pair of pants as it is a skirt or dress. Of course, not every pair of pants is suitable for the workplace. When it comes to shopping for the best work pants for women, you want to prioritize styles that look elevated, whether in textile, tone, or tailoring. While some pants offer just one of these characteristics, others offer all three. To save you from scouring them out on your own, though, we rounded up 20 pairs of pants that are perfect for the office — whether it's on the other end of a commute or just down the hall from your bedroom.

When searching for the best women's work pants, we paid close attention to fabric, color offerings, and inclusive size ranges, knowing that not every shopper has the same preferences or needs.

The best work pants for women in 2023:

  • Good Waist Flare Scuba Pants

    Best Overall Work Pants for Women

    Good American Good Waist Flare Scuba Pants

    $99 at Saks Fifth Avenue
    Read more
  • Super Stretch Millennium Career Pant

    Best Work Pants for Women on Amazon

    Briggs New York Super Stretch Millennium Career Pant

    Read more
  • High-Rise Sloan Comfort Stretch Full Length Pant

    Best Work Pants for Tall Women

    Banana Republic High-Rise Sloan Comfort Stretch Full Length Pant

    Read more
  • Straight Leg Yoga Work Pants

    Best Yoga Pants for Work

    Yogipace Straight Leg Yoga Work Pants

    Read more
  • Relaxed Fit Wrinkle Free Straight Leg Pant

    Best Khaki Work Pants

    Lee Relaxed Fit Wrinkle Free Straight Leg Pant

    Read more

So, while you're gearing up for fall and shopping for the best work bag and spacious work backpacks, make sure to peruse this list of work pants, too. Who knows, you might just find a few pairs that are so stylish, you'll be inclined to wear them well beyond your stay-at-home mom job or office 9-to-5.

Best Overall Work Pants for Women

Good American Good Waist Flare Scuba Pants

Good Waist Flare Scuba Pants
Best Overall Work Pants for Women

Good American Good Waist Flare Scuba Pants

$99 at Saks Fifth Avenue$129 at Nordstrom$129 at Bloomingdale's
Credit: Good American
Pros
  • Scuba material is stretchy and comfortable
  • Stylish slit inside the ankle
Cons
  • Must be dry-cleaned
  • Only sold in black

Reviewers praise these Good American pants for being extra comfortable. Coming in at just under $100 at most retailers, they're a bit of an investment, but worth it for the quality.

SizesXS - 5XL
Fabric95% polyester, 5% elastane
Colors1
Best Work Pants for Women on Amazon

Briggs New York Super Stretch Millennium Career Pant

Super Stretch Millennium Career Pant
Best Work Pants for Women on Amazon

Briggs New York Super Stretch Millennium Career Pant

Pros
  • Comes in 10(!) colors
  • Stretchy as heck
Cons
  • Not every color is available in every size

Prefer a more form-fitting work pant? "My favorite pair of pants for both the physical office and the work-from-home office are the Briggs New York Millennium Welt Career Pants," says certified wardrobe stylist and owner of Styled by Breyana, Breyana Wright. "They are a $30 investment, are suitable for regular, petite, and plus sizes, and they come in quite a few colors. What has me head-over-heels for them is that they are pull-on style, have a slimming feature, and come with a super comfortable waistband making them perfect for women at every stage of life."

Sizes6 - 24 (some plus, petite, and short options available)
Fabric78% rayon, 19% nylon, 3% spandex
Colors10
Best Work Pants for Tall Women

Banana Republic High-Rise Sloan Comfort Stretch Full Length Pant

On Sale
High-Rise Sloan Comfort Stretch Full Length Pant
Best Work Pants for Tall Women

Banana Republic High-Rise Sloan Comfort Stretch Full Length Pant

Now 40% Off
Credit: Banana Republic
Pros
  • Four-way stretch fabric
Cons
  • Dry-clean only

These slim-fit pants are made from a luxurious stretchy fabric that will make you feel super comfortable all day long, hugging your body while keeping your look office-appropriate. They come in regular, tall, and petite sizing, though, only two colors.

Sizes0 - 20
Fabric56% rayon, 39% cotton, 5% spandex
Colors2
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Best Yoga Pants for Work

Yogipace Straight Leg Yoga Work Pants

Straight Leg Yoga Work Pants
Best Yoga Pants for Work

Yogipace Straight Leg Yoga Work Pants

Credit: Amazon
Pros
  • Comes with an option of just back pockets or front and back pockets
  • Really helpful size guide
Cons
  • The material tends to collect lint after one wash

These pants might look like tailored black jeans but they feel as comfortable as your favorite pair of leggings. A best-seller on Amazon, reviewers rave about the quality and fit. "They are soft, squat-proof, compression, tummy supportive and stay in place!!" says one reviewer. "The pockets are deep, on both sides, enough to hold a phone and wallet and really a whole bunch of other things."

SizesXS - 2XL (regular, petite, short, tall, and extra tall available)
Fabric86% nylon, 14% spandex
Colors8
Best Khaki Work Pants

Lee Relaxed Fit Wrinkle Free Straight Leg Pant

Best Seller
Relaxed Fit Wrinkle Free Straight Leg Pant
Best Khaki Work Pants

Lee Relaxed Fit Wrinkle Free Straight Leg Pant

Now 25% Off
Credit: Lee
Pros
  • Flexible waistband
  • Colors don't fade
  • Sold in short and long options
Cons
  • Material quality tends to vary by color

Made of 100% polyester, these pants are comfortable on your body and for your wallet. The best part? These pants are wrinkle-free — even straight out of the wash!

Sizes2 - 20 (regular, long, and short)
FabricPolyester
Colors16
Best Pleated Work Pants for Women

TEREA Trinity Gathered Waist Trousers

On Sale
Trinity Gathered Waist Trousers
Best Pleated Work Pants for Women

TEREA Trinity Gathered Waist Trousers

Now 77% Off
Pros
  • Deep pockets
Cons
  • Bold print might not suit everyone's style

We simply had to include a pick from TEREA, the brand founded by Making the Cut season two winner Andrea Pitter. If you watched, you already know she's the queen of pleated pants, and if you didn't, check out the line of functional work pants she's created. While we love this polka-dot pair, the multicolor crane pair is calling our name, too.

SizesXXS - 5XL
Fabric97% cotton, 3% spandex
Colors3
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Best Work Pants With Matching Blazer for Women

J.Crew Kate Straight-leg Pant

Kate Straight-leg Pant
Best Work Pants With Matching Blazer for Women

J.Crew Kate Straight-leg Pant

Credit: J. Crew
Pros
  • Comes in petite and tall options
Cons
  • Not all colors match with blazer

Alison Bruhn, a style and image consultant and co-founder of The Style That Binds Us, swears by this bestselling item from J. Crew. "It comes in the classic colors and also seasonal options as well," she says. "It fits really well and hits at the top of the ankle for a modern look." Most colors also match with the Devon Blazer.

SizesRegular 00 - 24, Petite 00 - 12, Tall 0 - 16
Fabric52% cotton, 41% viscose, 7% elastane
Colors3
Best Statement Work Pants

Sanctuary Refine Side-Slit Trousers

Refine Side-Slit Trousers
Best Statement Work Pants

Sanctuary Refine Side-Slit Trousers

Credit: Sanctuary
Pros
  • Sold in one of the year's hottest colors
  • Comfortable high-waist silhouette
  • Trendy ankle slits
Cons
  • Only sold in one color

Hoping to make a bold statement with your work pants? The Sanctuary Refine Side-Slit Trousers are made in the prettiest orange spritz hue, which just so happened to be one of the trendiest colors of 2023. Pair it with a white blouse and a pair of neutral pumps to keep it more demure, or lean into dopamine dressing by pairing them with head-turning sandals, like the Kurt Geiger Orson Crystal Sandal ($185), and a coordinating fuchsia blouse or vintage graphic tee.

Sizes24-32
FabricPolyester, cotton
Colors1
Work Pants Worth the Investment

Spanx The Perfect Pant in Hi-Rise Flare

The Perfect Pant in Hi-Rise Flare
Work Pants Worth the Investment

Spanx The Perfect Pant in Hi-Rise Flare

Credit: Spanx
Pros
  • Hidden core shaping technology
  • Machine-washable
Cons
  • Fabric may be too thick if you live in a warm climate

These flattering pants truly live up to their name. The thick fabric and tummy-smoothing panel will suck you in in all the right places for a sleek silhouette. Several reviewers rave that they "fit like a glove!" Plus, the front seams give them an undeniably luxe look.

SizesXS - 3XL (regular, petite, and tall)
FabricBody: 68% rayon, 28% nylon, 4% elastane; Lining: 80% polyester, 20% elastane
Colors3
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Best Curvy Work Pants for Women

Alfani Curvy Bootcut Pants

Curvy Bootcut Pants
Best Curvy Work Pants for Women

Alfani Curvy Bootcut Pants

Credit: Alfani
Pros
  • Comes in practically every size imaginable
  • Comes in four colors
Cons
  • Regular fit only comes in two colors (black and navy)
  • Two colors are sold out in a variety of sizes

For those who enjoy a more relaxed silhouette that still looks work-appropriate, consider Alfani's Curvy Bootcut Pants. They are available for every type of body: regular, long, short, plus, petite — they've got it all! Reviewers love the high-rise look and praise the curvy fit. (The regular, long, and short sizes are listed separately.)

SizesRegular 0 - 18, Plus 14 - 28, Petite Plus 14 - 28, Short 0 - 18, Long 6 - 18
FabricPolyester, rayon, spandex
Colors4
Best Value Work Pants

Old Navy High-Waisted Pixie Ankle Pants

High-Waisted Pixie Ankle Pants
Best Value Work Pants

Old Navy High-Waisted Pixie Ankle Pants

Credit: Old Navy
Pros
  • Fits true-to-size across the board
Cons
  • Some reviewers don't like the high-rise fit
  • Only sold in two colors

These ankle-length work pants are a great choice for spring and summer. Not only is the fit flattering, the soft-washed cotton twill fabric has a little stretch for extra comfort. The only thing that could make them better in our book is if they were sold in a variety of bright hues, too.

SizesRegular 0 - 30, Tall 2 - 20, Petite 0 - 20
Fabric55% cotton, 37% rayon, 8% spandex
Colors2
Best Wide-leg Work Pants for Women

J.Crew Sydney Wide-Leg Pant

Sydney Wide-Leg Pant
Best Wide-leg Work Pants for Women

J.Crew Sydney Wide-Leg Pant

Credit: J.Crew
Pros
  • Wide, cropped style is very in right now
  • If you like these, new colors tend to rotate in
Cons
  • Wool means these might not be the best for spring or summer
  • Dry-clean only

Fact: J. Crew knows how to make a work pant. These wide-leg trousers come in a few colors (this is the boldest) and pair well with their sweaters and blazers.

Size00 - 24
Fabric55% polyester, 44% wool, 1% elastane
Colors3
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Best Denim Work Pants

Pilcro High-Rise Wide-Leg Trouser Jeans

High-Rise Wide-Leg Trouser Jeans
Best Denim Work Pants

Pilcro High-Rise Wide-Leg Trouser Jeans

Pros
  • Sold in standard, tall, petite, and plus sizes
  • Large back pockets
Cons
  • Front pockets are shallow
  • Only sold in one wash

If your workplace is denim-friendly, consider snagging a pair of these trendy trouser-inspired jeans from Pilcro. The trick to wearing denim to work — even on a casual Friday — is to opt for a darker wash that looks a bit more professional. Pair these with your favorite breezy, balloon-sleeve blouse and a ballet flat for a picture-perfect 'fit.

RELATED: The Best Jeans for Women, According to Stylists

SizesRegular 23-34, Tall 24-32, Petite 23-34, Plus 16-26
Fabric65% cotton, 31% pre-consumer recycled cotton, 3% other fibers
Colors1
Best Cropped Work Pants for Women

H&M Ankle-length Pants

Ankle-length Pants
Best Cropped Work Pants for Women

H&M Ankle-length Pants

Credit: H&M
Pros
  • Comes in five colors
  • Perfect for a belted look
Cons
  • Some reviews say the material isn't comfortable
  • Three of the five colors are sold out in many sizes—but they're getting restocked

British fashion blogger Nadia Anya highly recommends this cropped pair from H&M: "Pair these with anything and everything in your wardrobe! Add a belt to bring in some shape and throw a blazer on to complete the look." Whether you pair them with a tailored blouse or graphic tee, they'll ensure you look polished for whatever your workday has in store.

Sizes0-20
Fabric79% polyester, 19% rayon, 2% spandex
Colors5
Best Colorful Work Pants for Women

Athleta Brooklyn Heights Pant

Brooklyn Heights Pant
Best Colorful Work Pants for Women

Athleta Brooklyn Heights Pant

Credit: Athleta
Pros
  • Variety of color choices
  • Machine-washable
  • Wrinkle-resistant
Cons
  • Some reviews say the material is too thin or clingy
  • Runs large
  • Some colors are sold in a handful of sizes

Looking for a pair of pants that can take you from the gym to your desk? "These toe that work leisure line, but in a more professional feeling fabric," says Bay Area-based professional stylist Sahra Brandt. "I love the split hem, and it looks so chic with some work heels."

RELATED: The Most Comfortable Heels for Style and Support

Sizes0 - 26
FabricPolyester and spandex
Colors4
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Best Maternity Work Pants for Women

1822 Denim Slim Bootcut Maternity Pants

Slim Bootcut Maternity Pants
Best Maternity Work Pants for Women

1822 Denim Slim Bootcut Maternity Pants

Credit: 1822 Denim
Pros
  • Ideal price point for maternity pants
  • Machine-washable
Cons
  • No front pockets
  • Only sold in one color

Finding work pants that fit during those last months of pregnancy can be tough, but 1822 Denim's Slim Bootcut option are ideal thanks to a premium blend of materials and a modest price tag. Now, if only they came in more colors than black.

Sizes00 - 14
Fabric36% cotton, 36% viscose, 27% polyester, 1% spandex
Colors1
Best Day-to-Night Work Pants for Women

Grace Karin Pencil Capri Pants With Bow-Knots

Pencil Capri Pants With Bow-Knots
Best Day-to-Night Work Pants for Women

Grace Karin Pencil Capri Pants With Bow-Knots

Pros
  • Available in tons of colors
Cons
  • Some reviewers complain that the colors don't match the pictures

These adorable high-waisted pants work just as well in the office as they do at a happy hour or a dinner with friends. They also happen to have thousands of five-star reviews on Amazon and come in dozens of colors. If you really love them, spring for a two-pack! Or, to really dress it up, opt for a black satin pair.

SizesS - XXL
Fabric95% polyester, 5% elastane
Colors39
Best Work Pants for a Creative Environment

Made by Olivia Loose Pleated Wide Leg Palazzo Pants

Loose Pleated Wide Leg Palazzo Pants
Best Work Pants for a Creative Environment

Made by Olivia Loose Pleated Wide Leg Palazzo Pants

Credit: Made by Olivia
Pros
  • Some colors come with the option of built-in shorts
Cons
  • Some colors are slightly see-through
  • Cannot be washed with heat

If you want to feel like you're on vacation while you're at work, these chiffon palazzo pants will do just that. They flow as you walk, but they're still dressy enough for the office, so long as you pair them with a suitable top, like a blouse or tailored tee.

SizesS - 3XL
Fabric92% polyester, 2% spandex
Colors19
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Best Made-to-Order Work Pants

HasthaKatha Custom Made Pleated Pant

Custom Made Pleated Pant
Best Made-to-Order Work Pants

HasthaKatha Custom Made Pleated Pant

Credit: Etsy/HasthaKatha
Pros
  • Reviewers are so impressed with quality they tend to buy again
  • Great customer service
Cons
  • Creation and shipping may take a few weeks

Looking for a pair of breathable summer work pants that fit like a dream? This Etsy seller will custom-make these linen pants just for you! "These pants are exactly what I needed!" says one reviewer. "The pockets are a great size, and the waist is well-fitting but still stretchy enough for when I need a little extra room."

RELATED: Best Pairs of Linen Pants for Summer Travel, Work, and Lounging

SizesXS - XXL or custom
FabricLinen
Colors30
Best Luxury Work Pants for Women

DIARRABLU Leer Hera Print Palazzo Pants

Leer Hera Print Palazzo Pants
Best Luxury Work Pants for Women

DIARRABLU Leer Hera Print Palazzo Pants

Credit: DIARRABLU
Pros
  • Machine-washable
  • Founded by ethical brand and made of sustainable materials
Cons
  • Must be line-dried

How cool is this print? These pants are the priciest in our roundup, but they're also high-quality and made by a very cool company. DIARRABLU was founded by a Senegalese mathematician on a mission to create sustainable fashion pieces.

SizesXS - 3XL
Fabric100% polyester
Colors1
Headshot of Maggie Panos
Maggie Panos
Contributing Writer

After over a decade as a digital editor, Maggie Panos is navigating freelance writing and full-time parenting. She covered entertainment for POPSUGAR from New York and San Francisco before setting down roots in tree-covered Portland and focusing on local journalism. A self-proclaimed "okay baker", Maggie is interested in all things lifestyle — especially if those things involve Bravolebrities. 

Headshot of Rebecca Norris
Freelance Writer

Rebecca Ravee Norris is a full-time freelance writer with a decade's worth of lifestyle media experience. Based out of the Washington metropolitan area, she writes for a variety of publications, covering everything from beauty and wellness to style and celebrity news. She is a graduate of George Mason University. There, she earned her B.A. in Media: Production, Consumption, and Critique, along with a minor in Electronic Journalism. When she's not working, she can be found with her beloved Jack-Chi, Cash, adventuring with family and friends, working through reps at the gym, dreaming up her next home decor project, testing a new recipe, getting lost in the pages of a book, or catching up on her favorite shows. 

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