I'm Calling It: The Cotton Poplin Pants Trend Is Already Dethroning Linen Trousers for Summer
The look is part preppy, part "I rolled out of bed"—and totally fashion girl-approved.
Here's something almost everyone in my life knows about me: I love linen pants. I've tested countless pairs over the years and keep several in year-round rotation. So imagine my shock when I realized I don't want to wear my usual go-tos now that the weather is warming up. Instead, I'm opting for cotton poplin pants.
I'm not alone. On affiliate marketing platform ShopMy, per data shared with LineSheet, soft, pull-on pants ranked high on the list of the top 10 products that drove the most affiliate traffic in March. A pair made from cotton from Hailey Bieber-favorite brand Leset—The Kyoto Carpenter Pant, which is on my favorites list—made the cut alongside La Ligne's sellout Colby pants, and a dreamy tafetta pair from Donni (which makes a similar style in cotton).
Offline, the pajama-inspired piece has also become a mainstay on the streets of New York City. Cotton is just as breathable as your favorite linen finds, but is far less prone to creasing throughout the day. They feel like the ready-for-the-workplace version of last summer's boxer shorts trend—a little casual, a little cool, and a lot wearable. Pair them with a strappy heeled sandal, and you've got the foundation of a night-out outfit. Alternately, a pair of loafers and a coordinating poplin button-down shirt lean into the pants' inherently preppy vibe for the workplace.
Ahead, a few options I found while trying to convince myself not to spend half my paycheck on new trendy bottoms. The viral J.Crew Luna pant is in here (of course), but so are fashion-girl-friendly styles from St. Agni, Simon Miller, Old Navy, and more.
There's a reason this cropped style is so beloved. The casual fit is so versatile, and they come in a range of poppy colors.
Banana Republic has built a brand on wearable, high-quality basics. These pants are a perfect example.
If you love La Ligne's Colby Pants, this should be your next buy.
Insider-favorite brand Leset makes the chicest basics.
This pair combines two pants trends in one: balloon trousers and the cotton-poplin look.
Aritzia can do no wrong when it comes to crafting elevated everyday pieces.
The same goes for Reformation—these pants are so easy.
Uniqlo's offerings lean a little sporty and a lot classic.
I loved a striped trouser in the summertime.
Not interested in basic pinstriped trousers? Try this fun alternative from Zara.
Mint green always feels fresh.
Donni's silhouettes are relaxed, yet cool.
Jennifer Lopez loves St. Agni, and so do several Marie Claire editors.
Comme Si is my favorite under-the-radar fashion-girl brand. They make great boxers, but I also love this pair of trousers.
Petite girls, this pair is for you.
If you've never worn Simon Miller, start with this pair of pants.
These Rag Bone trousers feel a little more dressed-up when compared to the other styles on this list.
The butter yellow trend strikes again.
Oh, did you think COS wouldn't have the perfect pair of cotton pants?
The polka dot trend is still going strong for summer 2026.
