Knitted trousers: I’ll admit their place in fashion right now seems a little confused. It would be easy to disregard them as a bedfellow of the last two years, a symptom of our obsession with loungewear that we are just as eager to shed as banana bread, Zoom quizzes and 5km restrictions. But, I hear you cry, they’re just so damn comfortable. If you were swayed to the side of knitted trousers during lockdown you’ll know their cloud-like composition makes them a pure joy to wear. But what if you could translate that sheer comfort to something acceptable for our new normal? What if you could wear them for drinks, dinner, a swish around the shops in town when you want to feel smart? Hold tight, and scroll the looks below: where I firmly believe the knitted trouser holds its own as acceptable daywear – and beyond. 

Main image: Instagram @elledanmark. Styling @johannebrostroem; photography @ceenwahren; model @fedola.shema; makeup @mariethomsenbaby; hair @lasbas.

Khaite’s Roonie knitted pants are designed with a smoothing high waistband, while the split hem gives them a flared effect. Roonie skinny knit trousers, Khaite, €870; www.net-a-porter.com.

The styling of these ribbed knit trousers from By Malene Birger with a soft blazer, mules and a woven shoulder bag deftly removes them from the loungewear category. Amilah mohair trousers, By Malene Birger, €75.60; www.net-a-porter.com.

Knitted trousers needn’t be muted. Danish brand Remain Birger Christensen’s woven pieces in bold colours have become a favourite with the street style set. Erica knit pants in green spruce, Remain Birger Christensen, €229, The Frankie Shop. 

It’s the elevation of these knitted trousers by Helmut Lang with sharp accessories and a form-hugging top that does it for us. Stretch knit flared pants, Helmut Lang, €430; www.net-a-porter.com. 

Arket’s alpaca blend knitted trousers are made using polyamide which is derived from nylon waste such as recovered fishing nets. Knitted alpaca blend trousers, €79; www.arket.com. 

If you are going to wear knitted trousers as an off-duty look, look to the styling of Leset’s chic sage green pair which still feel elevated and luxurious. Stretch knit track pants, Leset, €50; www.net-a-porter.com.