How To Style Cigarette Pants, No Matter Your Aesthetic
Much to the dismay of 30-something-year-olds everywhere, skinny jeans have found their way back into our repertoire. Yes, it seems the majority of millennials are reluctant to give the tight, early aughts-coded bottoms another shot. But cigarette pants? Many have been much more accepting of the trousers. First gaining popularity in the ‘50s, they’re exactly how they sound — slim and straight, resembling the look of a cigarette. And recently, fashion insiders have been trading their super slouchy, baggy bottoms for the narrow silhouette.
According to New York-based stylist Jordanna Sharp, although cigarette shapes are trending this year, the bottoms are considered timeless. “These pants are elevated and chic, and what we saw on the spring 2025 runways is a fresh take on modernizing them,” the expert tells TZR. For starters, at McQueen, the straight-leg silhouette appeared to be slightly low-rise, which may appeal to Gen Z shoppers. Boss debuted cigarette pants that hit a few inches above the model’s ankles, offering a look that’s not as short (or, well, polarizing) as capris. Meanwhile, Tom Ford went with a stark white style paired with a matching tailored blazer and heeled sandals, serving up a polished 9-to-5 office outfit formula to emulate this summer.
Down to swap your roomy bottoms for something more fitted? If yes, scroll ahead for five cigarette pant outfit ideas courtesy of the style set.
Less Is More
When it comes to styling the slim-fit bottoms, Sharp says less is more. “I would speak to the elevated nature of these pants and keep the look simple and modern,” the stylist recommends. “For summer, pair simply with a white tank and a strappy high sandal for an elevated dinner look.” Tie everything together with a tailored black blazer and high-shine gold jewelry.
Theory Treeca Pant$195
J.CrewMadelyn Blazer$258
EverlaneThe Box-Cut Tee $38$28
Bottega VenetaSparkle Stretch Lace-Up Sandal$1,950
Gucci36mm G-Timeless Bee Watch$1,800
Office Ready
If you’re heading into the office this summer, emulate this foolproof 9-to-5 outfit formula: Black cigarette pants, a brown cardigan, and black slingback pumps. Last but not least, house all your belongings in a leather briefcase or slouchy tote.
AYRThe Daily Dose$195
Alex Mill Taylor Cardigan$175
Paris TexasLidia Slingback $570
STAUDMaude Shoulder Bag$395
MadewellOrganic Chunky Cuff Bracelet$52
Stick To The Classics
As Sharp suggests, lean into understated closet staples, like black cigarette pants, a silky white tee, and a khaki trench coat, should the current forecast in your city warrant a jacket. Then, spice things up by way of unconventional heels, like Khaite’s cage-y silhouette below.
Artemis DicieroElvira Crepe Slim-Fit Cigarette Pants$355
CuyanaSilk Tee$168
KhaiteCage Patent-Leather Sandals$920
SézaneClyde Trench Coat$350
Oliver Peoples Lumar$514
Flower Power
Florals for summer? While they may not be groundbreaking, the punchy print will always be synonymous with the sunny season. And flower-heavy cigarette pants just make sense for practically anything on the calendar, from work dinners to baby showers and everything in between. Go for a matchy-matchy outfit by tossing on a blazer or blouse in the same color scheme.
LibertinePink Wish Jacquard Slim-Leg Ankle Cigarette Pants$2,750
WARDROBE.NYCDouble-Breasted Wool Blazer$1,250
Banana Republic Italian Leather Slingback Pump$220
LoeweOversized Acetate Square Sunglasses$340
Anthropologie Bob Oré Taylor Contexture Leather Bag$289
Monochromatic Moment
For day-to-night wear, a black cigarette pant will do no wrong. If you’re someone who is loyal to neutrals, team the bottoms with a lightweight pullover or button-up in the hue. Style tip: Cherry-red ballet flats provide a nice splash of color to the minimalist look.
RoheCigarette Scuba Trousers$350
Wolford Aurora Pure Long-Sleeve Top$245
Reformation Clara Cashmere Crew Cardigan$198
ZaraLeather Ballet Flats$70
Freja Chrystie Bag$278