Corduroy is intrinsically linked with the 1970s and boho fashion. For many people, bell-bottomed flares in toffee hues come to mind at the mention of the fabrication – together with tie-dye, tassels and a free-spirited mindset. But recent seasons have seen a complete dispelling of such connotations, with an influx of roomier-cut silhouettes in barrel and wide-leg shapes.

The Row’s spring/summer 2024 collection has prompted a rise in corduroy trousers in recent years.

Auralee AW26.

Loewe AW26.

Granted, some designers have leant into the nostalgic tropes of corduroy, with slim cuts and earthy tones, but more modern takes have introduced a whole new demographic who would typically have never considered corduroy. The Row has mastered slouchy silhouettes across its trouser range, and back in its spring/summer 2024 collection the brand introduced a generously-cut take on corduroys in burnt orange and scarlet. As often happens with The Row, this kickstarted a widespread demand for XL cords.

Shop pick of the best corduroy trousers:

Best straight-leg trousersRead more

Best wide-leg trousersRead more

Best barrel-leg trousers

Marks & Spencer Corduroy Barrel-Leg Trousers

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More recently, cords with supple fabrics and slouchy silhouettes have come courtesy of Auralee and Loewe, rendered in turquoise and biscuit tones respectively. The TV show , which documents the lives of Carolyn Bessette-Kennedy and John F. Kennedy Jr., sparked a rise in slender silhouettes earlier this year — in the ’90s, CBK made cropped tanned cords a staple, worn with a black high-neck top.

Stephane Cardinale - Corbis/Getty Images

When it comes to styling, you can simply substitute your baggy blue jeans for baggy cords – they look best with your everyday basics, like the oversized tees at The Row, or a tank top. And if you want to elevate your corduroy trousers, consider adding a belt and a leather jacket – the textural combination of leather and cord feels especially appropriate for the winter season. Or, you could lean into corduroy’s origins and opt for a bootcut silhouette, paired with contemporary fits (an oversized shirt or V-neck jumper, say) if you don’t want to err too far into nostalgic territory.

Read more: Shop The Key Autumn/Winter 2026 Trends

Below, you’ll find ’s edit of the best pairs available now, organised by category for ease.