While my readers and I all may have varied personal styles, I think most of us do enjoy wearing classic pieces, even if we combine them in different ways to create myriad aesthetics. So this year I’ve added the occasional blog post to a little style series I’ve called Styling the Classics…for the Modern Woman. We may like to wear the classic pieces in our wardrobes differently, but we’re smart to know how to make these timeless garments and accessories look modern and fresh. Today I’m sharing three modern ways to style classic black linen trousers…now and into early fall.
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I’m styling my black linen wide-leg essential pants from J.Crew. I’ve had these in my wardrobe since spring and plan to wear them into early fall. I won’t wear all of my linen in the fall, simply because I prefer to reserve most of it for truly hot, humid, summer days. But these classic black linen trousers have proven to be so versatile, and I think they’ll help me create chic fall-looking outfits even in the transitional season when days can still be warm.
The linen wide-leg essential pants fit true to size and I have them in a 10. They do come in other colors and they’re marked down and on final sale.
Style Classic Black Linen Trousers with White
One of the easiest ways – supposedly – to style classic black linen trousers is with a white top or shirt. I wore the outfit above to church this Sunday. We had some cool weather and this all linen outfit felt perfect for the day. I simply topped the black linen pants with my favorite white linen button-up shirt (more economical option).
But I’ve discovered that if you don’t put a little effort into styling a black and white outfit you can come off looking like the wait staff at your favorite restaurant. So I do have two big tips for how to style classic black linen trousers with a white top and not get stuck with the dirty dishes.
Number one, instead of wearing the expected black accessories, opt for cognac. Rich reddish brown bag, shoes and belt will not only break up the black and white, but they also add depth and interest. Trust me on this. You’ll set yourself apart and look instantly stylish with this simple outfit formula.
My second tip is simply to make a risky or unexpected style choice somewhere in the outfit. You won’t look like a waiter if you show up in these fun Beek Gallito stud sandals. And even if these extremely comfortable, sporty shoes are not your cup of tea, making an equally surprising choice somewhere in your outfit will accomplish the same goal. How can you introduce that element of surprise in a black and white outfit that suits your personal style aesthetic? Share with me in the comments. Oh, and by the way, you can use code KAY10 at Beek to get 10% off these and any other shoes.
Style Classic Black Linen Trousers with a Silky Blouse
Another favorite way to style classic black linen trousers is to top them with a feminine silky blouse. I love the slight juxtaposition created when you combine silk and linen in an outfit. My blouse is not actually silk, but I do always prefer that natural fiber fabric.
I just couldn’t resist this gorgeous Cinq a Sept paisley button-up shirt when it was offered 25% off to Icon shoppers in the Nordstrom Anniversary Sale. I love that it has a slightly cropped curved hem so it can be worn tucked or out. The elbow length smocked, puffed sleeves are feminine, and the print is interesting. But I generally lean into Ann Taylor for more economically priced similar options. This solid embroidered plum blouse is a stunning choice, but for a print option check out this cowl neck top or this long-sleeve blouse.
For this office-ready look I wore my Sam Edelman slingback pumps. They fit beautifully true to size and come in other colors, too. I also have this block heel slingback pump in Parisian plum. This time I wore a black belt, too. But, just to break up all the black again, I opted for my cognac bag. I think it works – the fashion police didn’t pull me over! – but looking at these photos I think my black bag might have been the better choice here. What do you think.
For this more elevated look I wore a chunky chain necklace (similar) and other gold jewelry. I think this outfit is perfect for many work environments as well as church or a dressy dinner out.
Style Classic Black Linen Trousers with a Polo Top
While basic t-shirts will always have a place in our wardrobes, right now collared tops are more on trend. Look for polos, Johnny collars or button-up shirts to add a little more interest to your more casual looks. For this casual outfit with my linen pants, I wore my black and white stripe cotton polo from Veronica Beard. It’s still pricey, but it is marked down considerably. I’ve worn this top so much this summer, and I think it will work beautifully into early fall.
The stripe cotton polo is just the right length to leave untucked for a more casual vibe. And that open neckline is not only on trend, but it’s also more flattering than a crewneck. Here’s a more economical option that’s also marked down to a really great price.
To keep this outfit casual and everyday, I wore my Birkenstocks. They’re proving to be very comfortable and versatile. And this is one sandal I see women wear frequently into the fall. The big chunky straps and buckle just lend themselves to autumn. But if this iconic sandal doesn’t fit your personal style aesthetic, you could work the same outfit formula with daintier sandals or sneakers.
I love having classic styles in my closet that work for multiple seasons. So these classic black linen trousers are a workhorse for me, helping me to create a variety of outfits that work for my real life. You can shop these looks and the more economical options I found in the shopping widget below.
Check out the other blog posts in our Styling the Classics…for the Modern Woman by clicking on 2025 Style Series in the top menu or here.
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Blessed for My Day
Not only does stepping out into nature reinvigorate us physically and emotionally, but it helps us to connect with our Creator in a fresh way. Through experiencing God’s creation we can see more clearly the attributes of the Creator. For instance, when I spend time watching the birds eat the seeds of the earth I’m reminded that God provides for them every day. In the same way, He provides my every need just when I truly need it. I never go without if I lean into my Provider.
Slow down a little today and really soak in part of the world around you. Whether you are able to listen to the roar of the ocean, watch a busy squirrel, gather wild flowers or pet your own dog, take those moments to see a fresh glimpse of God. Yes, be thankful for the creation. But look beyond the beauty of creation to the fuller glory of God, the One who created it…and you.
Since what may be known about God is plain to them, because God has made it plain to them. For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse. ~ Romans 1:19-20
I love black and white together. I’ve got to get a cognac belt – already have a purse but just never got a belt.
I’ve become obsessed with cognac accessories. I have different width and styles of cognac belts (love my obi belt in cognac). I also have different color metal buckles I can wear with my cognac belts. Same with my cognac bags…different styles and color metals. They go with pretty much everything.
I love black and white together. I’ve got to get a cognac belt – already have a purse but just never got a belt. And again, your hair looks great in these pictures! Have a great day!
Thanks, Kay, for this style inspiration. These ideas help me to look at my closet with fresh eyes. And your hair is fab!
I love to add a bold statement necklace or scarf to a black/white outfit. Tortoiseshell or a leopard print are my current favorites for fall.
I have 2 pairs of black and white shoes that really add to a black and white outfit. One is a black and white polka dot heeled sandal, the other is a gingham print black and white flat sandal. Such fun!! Since I live in Texas, I can wear them into late fall.
I think the brown bag with all the black looks a little off. If you had worn cognac shoes with the cognac bag that you do a lot, it would have been ok. I agree you should have worn a black bag. That’s what fashion is all about. We have the choice to change up our outfits however we want. It’s good to try different ideas. Have a blessed day.
The first outfit is so simple but stunning. I love the idea of doing the cognac accessories. I know me I would have added black. Good idea not to. The silk blouse outfit is stunning on you. The lighting in the photo is so neat too. This gives me good ideas how to extend my black linen pants into Fall. Thanks.
Hey Kay. You look beautiful in all the outfits! I love the BFMD today, too. We have been enjoying a painting bunting each evening at our bird feeder. God has blessed us with so much beauty in nature!
Good ideas for a wardrobe staple! In the second look, I like that you did not use a black bag as I feel it would have been a lot of black with the blouse being thing breaking up an all-black palette, but I think there’s also more than one way to wear things!
If its Summer when wearing a casual but elevated Black pants and Shirt especially linen , I too would never wear black accessories I wear Tan ( the cognac looks gorgeous and I would love it) but for my personal style aesthetic and so I don’t get roped into waiting on/ or doing dishes😂, instead of my daintier jewellery I have some gorgeous slightly bohemian Turquoise/Silver drop earrings and ring which I wear with a moonstone necklace and my Chakra bracelet and I instantly look like Im on holiday and should be sipping cappuccino coffee and a croissant .
Thanks for the styling ideas. I have black linen wide leg pants that I will be wearing in the fall. I also have navy and dark brown linen pants too. It’s hot in Texas till near end of October. I wear darker colors starting in September. As usual love the devotional message.
Kaye, firstly, you will be in my prayers. Your hair looks beautiful with the longer length. You also look so fit and modern in DFMD first week in August. Very classy, that is the look I strive to achieve. So whatever you are doing with fitness makeup and wardrobe selection, it’s look gorgeous.
I think the cognac bag plays nicely off of the warm pink in the blouse and especially keeps it more summery.