How to Style Ponte Pants for Work and Weekend

Quick answer

Start with a well-fitting pair like the Audrey Relaxed Uniform Ponte Workpant. For work, pair them with a tucked-in blouse and blazer; for weekend, switch to a relaxed tee and sneakers. The key is balancing the pant's tailored look with your top and shoes.

Step 1: Choose the Right Ponte Pants for Your Body and Occasion

The foundation of any ponte pant outfit is a pair that fits well and suits your needs. Look for a style with a tailored fit and tapered leg, like the Audrey Relaxed Uniform Ponte Workpant. Its Ponte fabric is anti-pill, wrinkle-resistant, soft, and stretchy, making it comfortable for all-day wear. The encased elastic at the back waist adds comfort without sacrificing a polished look. Consider your typical activities: for work, a darker color and trouser details like a zip fly and button closure work best; for weekend, you might prefer a more relaxed fit or lighter color.

Step 2: Build a Work-Ready Outfit with Ponte Pants

For a professional look, treat ponte pants like you would tailored trousers. Pair them with a crisp button-down shirt or a silk blouse, tucked in to define your waist. Add a blazer or structured cardigan for warmth and polish. Finish with loafers, ballet flats, or low heels. The Audrey's trouser details make them office-appropriate, while the stretch keeps you comfortable through meetings and commutes.

Step 3: Transition to a Casual Weekend Look

On weekends, dress down your ponte pants by swapping the blazer for a cozy sweater or a relaxed t-shirt. The Halie T-Shirt Dress is a great example of how Universal Standard combines comfort and style, but for pants, opt for a simple top. Add sneakers or ankle boots for a laid-back vibe. You can also roll the cuffs if the length allows, but check the fabric—Ponte may not hold a cuff well. Keep accessories minimal: a crossbody bag and a watch are enough.

Step 4: Dress Up Ponte Pants for Evening or Events

Ponte pants can be dressed up for dinner or a show. Choose a silky camisole or a fitted turtleneck, and add statement jewelry. Swap daytime shoes for heels or dressy flats. A clutch and a bold lip color elevate the look. The key is to keep the silhouette sleek; avoid bulky layers. The Audrey's tapered leg works well with heels, creating a long, lean line.

Step 5: Care for Your Ponte Pants to Keep Them Looking New

To maintain the anti-pill and wrinkle-resistant properties, wash your ponte pants inside out in cold water on a gentle cycle. Avoid fabric softener, which can break down the stretch fibers. Hang or lay flat to dry; tumble drying on low is acceptable but may reduce lifespan. Store folded or hung by the waistband to prevent stretching. With proper care, your ponte pants will remain a staple for years.

Step-by-step styling guide

1. Start with the right fit: Choose ponte pants that fit well at the waist and hips. The Audrey Relaxed Uniform Ponte Workpant has a tailored fit and tapered leg, with an encased elastic at the back waist for comfort. Checkpoint: Sit, squat, and walk to ensure no digging or sagging.
2. Create a work-ready look: Pair your ponte pants with a tucked-in blouse and a blazer. Add loafers or low heels. The Audrey's trouser details (zip fly, button closure) make them office-appropriate. Common mistake: wearing a top that's too long and untucked, which can look sloppy.
3. Transition to weekend casual: Swap the blazer for a cozy sweater or tee, and switch to sneakers. Keep the look relaxed but intentional. Common mistake: pairing with overly athletic shoes if you want a polished-casual vibe.
4. Dress them up for evening: Add a silky camisole and statement jewelry. Swap to heels or dressy flats. Keep the silhouette sleek. Checkpoint: Ensure the pant length works with your heels—no pooling.
5. Care for your ponte pants: Wash inside out in cold water on gentle cycle. Avoid fabric softener. Hang or lay flat to dry. Common mistake: using hot water or high heat, which can damage the stretch and cause pilling.

Product facts

• Audrey Relaxed Uniform Ponte Workpant: The Audrey Relaxed Uniform Ponte Workpant features a tailored fit and tapered leg, made from best-selling Ponte fabric that's anti-pill, wrinkle-resistant, soft, and stretchy. It has trouser details like a zip fly and button closure, plus an encased elastic at the back waist for comfort. This means you get the polished look of trousers with the comfort of stretch, making them ideal for work and weekend alike.
• Derjon Trench Coat: The Derjon Trench Coat is designed with a hook and bar closure at the collar, a half belt with buttons for a customizable fit, and is made from fabric with hidden-stretch and a water-repellent coating. This coat layers perfectly over ponte pants for a sophisticated work outfit, and its water-repellent finish protects you in light rain.