Red pants are not for the faint of heart, and that’s exactly why I love them. They bring a bold pop of color to any outfit, and with just the right styling, they go from statement piece to a regular in your outfits choices.
And if you’ve ever pulled on a pair of red pants and immediately thought, “Okay… now what?” Well, this article is for you. I’ve pulled together over ten outfit ideas that are trending right now and easy to recreate:
Graphic T-Shirt
Photo by the_styleup_chic
This is the easiest red pants outfit, and I wear it on repeat. A crisp graphic tee of your choice(bonus points if it’s slightly oversized) tucked (or not) into high-waisted red pants just works.
I think it’s just super relaxed, confident and cool. Add a pair of clean white sneakers or sandals and maybe a gold necklace or two, and suddenly, voilà, you’ve got a whole look with barely any effort.
Black & White Striped Vest Top
Photo by @alexsegurasanz
The black white and red combo is iconic because it’s powerful and chic at the same time. I love to recommend anyone to pair red pants with a striped vest top and layer on a jacket over the shoulders.
This outfit gives instant cool-girl vibes, especially if your pants are fitted or tailored. Add sandals or ankle boots and a bold red lip if you’re feeling dramatic (I usually am).
Oversized Leather Jacket and Tee
Photo by lucywilliams
This is one of my go-to street-style looks. Red pants can feel a little loud, so grounding them with a casual tee and a structured oversized leather jacket is the perfect balance.
I usually go for neutral colored ones. Think black, beige, or even grey, and tuck in a tee with just a little edge.
White Button-Down and Loafers
Photo by tajy254
There’s something so crisp and classic about a white button-down shirt paired with red pants. This combo screams “I’m stylish but at the same time, I didn’t try too hard.”
I love half-tucking the shirt or tying it in a knot at the waist for a relaxed touch. Add some sleek loafers or pointed-toe flats, and you’ve got the perfect outfit for casual meetings, lunch dates, or just being fabulous.
Photo by Reformation
Cream Sweater and Gold Jewelry
If I want to soften up the red just a little, I’d often reach for a cream or ivory sweater. Something about pairing that warm neutral with bright red feels super luxe and cozy.
You can also add some chunky gold jewelry, like a statement necklace or layered earrings…to finish off the look.
Black Button-Up and Statement Belt
Photo by amel_nali_s
This outfit makes me feel powerful every single time. A black button-up blouse tucked into red pants creates an instant hourglass silhouette, especially if you cinch the waist with a bold belt.
I usually go for gold or chain detailing on the belt to add a tad bit of flair. Pair it with heels or heeled boots, and you’ve got yourself a killer dinner or workwear outfit.
Striped Overshirt and Tank Top
Photo by annelauremais
French-girl vibes, anyone? A striped overshirt, especially in navy blue and white, looks super adorable with red pants.
I usually go for a slim or slightly cropped fit and tuck it in neatly. Add a cute pair of ballet flats and maybe… a little crossbody bag, and suddenly you’ll look like as if you’d just stepped out of a Parisian café.
Simple Tank Top
Photo by free people
You really can’t go wrong with a basic tank top. Pair it with red pants and sandals, and you’ve got the perfect mix of casual and trendy.
This outfit is great for spring and summer, and depending on your shoes, be it sneakers, slides, or even wedges, you can make it feel more dressed up or laid back. Finally, I like finishing it off with a small backpack or tote bag for a little extra style.
All-Red Monochrome Look
Photo by kristenlkish
Okay, this one is a bold move, not gonna lie. Wearing red head to toe is one of the easiest ways to look super fashionable without overthinking.
A red top, red pants, and red heels or boots? Yes. Please. Just make sure to vary the shades slightly or mix textures like satin with cotton or denim with silk so it doesn’t look too matchy-matchy, ya’ know? But I promise you’ll get compliments all day long.
Collared Polo Top
Photo by la ligne
For a slightly more polished and city-chic look, I lovewearing a long sleeved polo top over red pants. Pair it with a neutral coat/jacket (camel, cream, oatmeal or whatever you like) and finish it with heels or loafers.
This outfit gives that classic fall look with a little spice thanks to the bold pants. I always feel like I should be sipping coffee on a busy street corner when I wear this!
Striped Tee And Jacket
Photo by maeve
Yes, red pants can be chic too. I’d suggest wearing high-waisted red jeans or wide legged red pants with a classic stiped tee of your choice.
It gives off “basic chic” but in the best way. This look is perfect for errands, brunch, or lounging in style. Bonus points if you can layer with a jacket, overshirt or cardigan it’ll tie everything together so well.
Final Thoughts
Red pants are such a fun piece to style, and I honestly think everyone should have a pair in their wardrobe. They instantly elevate your outfit and make you look like you know what you’re doing even on days when you totally don’t.
Once I started playing around with red pants, I couldn’t stop. Monochrome looks or effortless t-shirt pairings, the possibilities are endless.
So if your wardrobe’s feeling a little blah lately, consider slipping into something red! And trust me, your closet (and your confidence) will thank you.