Women’s Pants FAQs
What are the main styles of women’s pants?
Eight core leg shapes cover most of what you'll find in women's pants, from a slim, tapered cut to a wide, flowing one.
- Wide leg. Wide-leg pants and jeans generally have a relaxed fit through the entire pants. Typically, they’ll fit through the waist, then widen through the hip all the way down to the hem,
- Straight. Women’s straight pants and jeans feature a straight up-and-down cut that maintains a sleek line throughout the entire length of the pants.
- Ankle. This leg shape features a hem at the ankle. Ankle pants are typically cropped slightly shorter than the average hem length.
- Skinny. Found in both jean and trouser styles, this leg cut hugs tightly throughout the entire pants
- Slim. Slim-cut pants have a narrow leg that hugs from the thigh through the calf and ankle. They may not be as tight around the ankles as skinny styles.
- Relaxed. Relaxed styles are loose compared to regular fit pants but are not considered to be baggy.
- Crops. Crop pants stop above the ankle and are notably shorter than the standard pant hem length.
- Leggings. Women’s leggings feature a skin-tight fit. They are usually made with a stretchy fabric.
How should women’s pants fit at the waist and hem?
Pants for women should sit comfortably at the waist without gapping or pinching, whether they close with a zip and button or rely on the elastic waistband built into pull-on pants. A high-rise waistband sits above the natural waist and stays put during movement, while a mid-rise style sits closer to the hip. At the hem, ankle and crop styles hit just above the shoe, wide-leg styles often graze the floor in heels, and straight styles break at the top of a flat shoe.
What are the essential pants styles for a women's capsule wardrobe?
A few core pants styles cover most of what a capsule wardrobe needs, from the office to the weekend.
- Classic tailored trousers. A pair of full-length pants in a neutral shade anchors work outfits and dressier occasions alike.
- Casual wide-leg pants. A relaxed pair adds an easy, put-together look for weekends and travel.
- Comfortable leggings. A stretchy pair works for errands, workouts, or lounging at home.
Whether you want to make a statement or find a new go-to pair, you can always visit a Chico’s boutique near you to try on styles in person.
What is the most comfortable fabric for pants for all-day wear?
A few fabrics stand out for all-day comfort:
- Ponte knit. Structured yet stretchy, the fabric used in ponte pants holds its shape through a full day of sitting or standing.
- Travel-ready blends. Wrinkle-resistant fabric in travel pants packs easily and resists creasing on long days.
- Stretch denim. A touch of added stretch moves with you while keeping the classic denim look.
- Soft knit jersey. A lightweight, breathable knit feels as comfortable as loungewear while still looking put together.