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Summer can be such an incredible time in the world of fashion. It’s a season of brand new swimsuits, sandals and barely-there tops you can’t wait to put on for a night on the town.
The tricky part always seems to be finding the right lightweight summer pants because we all love jeans and leggings, but harsh summer humidity calls for something more airy. There’s also that fine line between breathable and comfortable, and looking like you’ve thrown on last night’s pyjamas.
To fill in the gray area, we’ve put together a list of the best lightweight summer pants for women. This way, you can go about enjoying the summer heat without totally regretting your outfit choice or running into a wardrobe malfunction (we’ve all been there).
How to Choose the Best Lightweight Summer Pants for You
During the summer months, there’s a lot of us who don’t feel comfortable running around in cut-off denim shorts. This is exactly where lightweight summer pants come into play.
When you’re shopping for lightweight options, it’s important to remember that airiness and breathability are key. It’s also helpful to factor in what you already have in your closet to pair with new summer pants.
The best part is, there are no real rules when it comes to fashion – especially when comfort is a main priority. So, you can go big and baggy and pair your lightweight summer pants with a men’s button down shirt, or you can mix things up and wear a crop top with a set of cropped trousers.
Whatever you choose to mix and match, always keep the following in mind when shopping for lightweight summer pants:
Material
Think about those summer pants you’ve had in the past that felt so comfortable, lightweight and breezy to have on. What were they made of? When it comes to breathability, the answer is almost always cotton because it doesn’t weigh you down or make you sweat. Plus, it feels nice and soft against the skin.
As a result, most of the pairs on our list of the best lightweight summer pants for women are made of some sort of cotton or cotton blend. Take, for example, the Frankie Shop Blanche Pleated Trousers are fashioned in boisterous cotton.
Also, another breathable fabric to watch out for is linen, which the Cos Wide-Leg Linen Trousers are made out of.
Brand
Which brands can you always turn to for long-lasting, fashion-forward products? When it comes to quality fabrics and pristinely sewn garments, you really can’t beat The Row’s Igor Pants.
If keeping things eco-friendly yet luxurious is one of your top concerns, you must check out the Stella McCartney Kara Trousers. Stella McCartney has been a celebrity loved brand for years, and the designer herself is a pioneer of the movement towards environmentally conscious manufacturing.
Price
When it comes to buying seasonal clothing, scoring sale items and bargain deals can be exhilarating, considering the fact that you only wear them at certain times of the year. The same goes for designer items, and the See By Chloé Belted Cotton-Blend Twill Trousers are sitting at $198 down from $330.
Also, if you’re looking for summer pants that you’ll throw on year after year, the Cos Wide-Leg Linen Trousers are priced at a very reasonable $125.
Of course, in the world of luxury fashion, you will find some investment pieces as well. Jacquemus’ Le Pantalons Sauge are $790, and Acne Studios Crochet Trousers meet you in the middle at $471.
11 Best Lightweight Summer Pants for Women
Summer tends to be one of the more active seasons with socializing, sports, and the beautiful weather keeping people outside from morning till night. Thus, lightweight summer pants are a true wardrobe necessity, especially throughout June, July, and August.
That being said, let’s have a look at some of the best lightweight summer pants for women that you can get your hands on today:
#1 – The Row Igor Pants
As suspected, the Olsen twins sure know how to design lightweight summer pants. The Row Igor Pants (price unavailable) are wide-leg trousers made of 100% cotton. They are the epitome of summer in a light cream colour and possess an air of subtle sophistication.
With a simple button front, pleats, and darts in the back, these lightweight pants are effortlessly chic paired with a simple button down, t-shirt, or tank top.
#2 – See By Chloé Belted Cotton-Blend Twill Trousers
If you’re on the hunt for some lightweight summer pants that make you look and feel fierce and in charge, check out the See By Chloé Belted Cotton-Blend Twill Trousers. Currently on sale for $198 (down from $330), the mid-rise waist on these cargo pants is both flattering and comfortable with a wispy blouse tucked inside.
Inspired by the menswear staple, these trousers come equipped with deep side pockets, but their delicate cotton fabric makes them appear more gentle and feminine. Plus, the front pleats and slender ankles elongate the leg, which is even more beneficial come summertime.
#3 – Faithfull The Brand Lario Pants
There’s just something about putting on cropped pants in the summertime that makes you feel like you could be on vacation in Italy (if only). These flowy capris from Faithfull The Brand might be our top pick for lightweight summer pants to wear on holiday.
With their flared legs and airy cotton, the $179 Lario Pants can easily be dressed up for dinners out on the patio. The delicate but deliberate waistband that has a super comfy elastic feature at the back as well, leaving you lots of room to breathe after a big plate of pasta.
#4 – Cos Wide-Leg Linen Trousers
Known for quality, timeless designs, including Cos’s Wide-Leg Linen Trousers ($125) in our list of the best lightweight summer pants for women was a no brainer. Soon to be your go-to pair on steamy days, these breezy wide-leg trousers come in beige and white and feature a slimming high waist.
In addition to a concealed zipper, the large side pockets and single flap pocket on the back add special touches to a very streamlined silhouette.
#5 – Staud Pollux Pant – Limone
Sometimes you feel like making a statement with something bright and colourful in the summer months, so why not try the Staud Pollux Pant in Limone? Currently on sale for $192.50 (down from $275), these straight-leg summer pants feature a subtle pattern that allows cheeky yellow and white to harmonize.
The bonuses are the lightweight tweed material and the fun white fringe on the hem that sits above the ankle. Imagine kicking around in these babies all summer with the matching bikini top!
#6 – The Frankie Shop Blanche Pleated Trousers
If there were a pair of lightweight summer pants that could scream ‘white party at the Hamptons’, they would be the Frankie Shop’s Blanche Pleated Trousers ($201).
Made of breathable cotton, these pleated pants feature a super wide leg that flows nicely in the summer breeze. The high waist and slanted hip pockets add to the relaxed fit even more.
#7 – Ganni Stripe Cotton Pants
There are some lightweight summer pants that can make you look like you jumped right out of bed (when paired with the wrong things). But the Ganni Stripe Cotton Pants ($212) are those summer pants in the best way possible.
Made of 100% organic cotton, these lightweight, ankle-length summer pants come in an easy slip-on elastic waist style with a mid-rise. The fabric is slightly sheer, so they make a great pair of pants to wear over a bathing suit at the beach.
#8 – Jacquemus Le Pantalons Sauge
Best known for popularizing the designer mini bag, Jacquemus’ Le Pantalons Sauge ($790) are turning some heads as well. Available in light pink, black and terracotta, they’re the easy, breezy antidote to all your summer pant woes.
With an elongated flare cut and front pleats, these lightweight summer pants have a sense of structure. Made from a blend of silk and viscose, they’re extra soft on the skin too.
#9 – Mara Hoffman Dorothy Pant
The paperbag waist isn’t going anywhere thanks to the Mara Hoffman Dorothy Pant ($358), and we’re happy about it! Made from a blend of linen and Tencel, these lightweight summer pants have been hand-dipped in natural dyes.
Available in three gorgeous summer colours, (indigo, pink, and a pink multi), the wide leg and elastic waist on these trousers allow for serious comfort. Don’t worry about not being able to show off your shoes either – the hem will graze just above your toes.
#10 – Stella McCartney Kara Trousers
If you’re on the hunt for lightweight summer pants that resemble trackies when it comes to style and comfort level, check out the Stella McCartney Kara Trousers ($931). Fashioned in a ‘Stella Sustainable’ manner with eco-friendly materials, these baby blue summer pants feature an elastic waist and elasticated ankles so that you can adjust where they sit on your calf.
A standout detail on these pants apart is the patchwork detailing that covers the area between the hips and the knees. They’re also made with 100% organic cotton, so you know that they’re super breathable in high temperatures.
#11 – Acne Studios Crochet Trousers
Are you a fan of 70s hippie fashion? If so, you need to have a look at the Acne Studios Crochet Trousers ($471). Made in both ecru beige and black, these lightweight summer pants are sure to make an entrance with their symmetrical appliques.
The flared legs and elastic pull-on waist provide a comfortable fit, and since these pants are made of cotton, a little bit of polyester and elastane, you can style them with any baggy tee or tank in your closet.
What’s the most breathable material for lightweight summer pants?
Other than an attractive design, what’s the most important factor in creating a great pair of lightweight pants for summer? Breathable fabrics are the answer to maintaining that easy, no-fuss standard that summer fashion is all about.
The most breathable materials are always going to be cotton and linen. Not only do they feel great against the skin, but they’re also easy to pack and travel with. Plus, they’re interchangeable with day and night attire.
Which lightweight summer pants have the highest ratings?
If you’re someone who reads reviews and bases a lot of your decisions off of what’s worked well for others, Jacquemus’ Le Pantalon Sauge should appeal to you. These lightweight summer pants have stellar ratings, and customers give them bonus points for quality, versatility, and comfortability.
Which lightweight summer pants are the most affordable?
When it comes to affordability, there are a few pairs of lightweight summer pants that make an impression, and not just on your credit card. The Cos Wide-Leg Linen Trousers are priced at $125 and they’re well worth the buy for how adaptable and well-made they are.
The Staud Pollux Pant in Limone is worth checking out as it’s currently on sale for $192.50 (down from $275). Lastly, the See By Chloé Belted Cotton-Blend Twill Trousers are on sale for $198 (down from $330), which is a really great deal for an item by the brand.
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