From Dior and McQueen to Miu Miu and Valentino, taffeta trousers have had more than a moment on the runways this spring/summer, and now, inevitably, it’s trickled down to the mainstream retailers.
Take, for example, Donni, a Los Angeles-based loungewear brand popular among cool mums during school pick-ups and weekend playdates. It recently released its cult-favourite drawstring pants in taffeta, and they’re perfect for busy Saturdays or movie marathons while still being sleek enough for the office. Now editor-loved brands like Chan Luu, Staud, and even Zara are following suit.
When you think of silk, loose, fluid satin — the kind that makes everything from dresses to drawstring pants feel instantly more elevated — probably comes to mind. (There’s a reason so many people swear by sleeping in the stuff.) Taffeta is a fabric, though, not a material. The stiff, shiny stuff is traditionally made from silk, but it can also be woven from manmade fibers like nylon and polyester.
Because they’re stiffer and a little hardier than satin, taffeta trousers leave a touch more to the imagination and aren’t quite so delicate, so feel free to wear them on errand runs or while traipsing around on vacation. Plus, they do the whole day-to-night thing expertly, and they pair well with everything from blazers to tank tops. Get your hands on the trend (and learn how to style it) below.