There are a lot of things you forget about in the glorious summer months: responsibilities, hot coffee, pants. Then, in autumn, reality returns, and you to begin thinking about what you're wearing on your bottom half again, instead of just mindlessly throwing on an airy summer dress to avoid severe thigh-sweat on the subway.
Fortunately, today's trends make dressing your legs a little more fun, and it's easy to look effortlessly put-together when you have the right bottoms on hand. Now that pants are relevant again, it's time to take inventory to tackle both practicality and trendiness for the next few months. Jeans are great and all, but they're not the only option for fall, so click ahead for the 10 must-haves you should make space for in your closet — your bottom will thank you.
The Cropped Trouser
If you haven't gotten a pair (or five) of cropped pants yet, do your wardrobe a favor and finally scoop up this effortless fall staple. It's also the best way to show off your favorite pair of kicks.
Silence + Noise Adeline Satin Track Pant, $69, available at Urban Outfitters.
The Wide-Legged Trousers
Fall is all about oversized silhouettes, and the easiest way to get in on the trend is with a versatile pair of wide-legged pants.
Topshop Zip Front Crop Wide Leg Trousers, $75, available at Topshop.
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The Go-To Stylish Leggings
Make comfort a top priority with a pair of printed leggings that you'll actually want to wear in public.
SPANX, $68.00, available at Spanx
The Statement Jeans
If you're someone who lives in jeans, add a pair that's far from your typical basic blues. With these, you've got cut-outs, color-blocking, and a cropped hem.
Rowan Cut-out Denim Pants, $265, available at Opening Ceremony.
The Everyday Jeans
Your trusty companion for the season doesn't have to be boring. Look for unique touches, like statement seams or a fresh new wash, to keep things cool.
H&M Straight Regular Ankle Jeans, $39.99, available at H&M.
The Midi Skirt
Get your Tumblr-pink on with a ladylike skirt that pairs well with the knits you already own.
Tibi Corduroy Wrap Skirt, $375, available at Need Supply Co.
The Transitional Shorts
It may seem counterintuitive to get shorts for a colder season, but they're not totally out of the question. Get a pair in a thicker fabric you can wear on their own for a few more weeks, and then again with tights down the line.
StyleNanda Textured High Waist Shorts, $59, available at StyleNanda.
The PJ Pant
Look chic and feel like you're wearing pajamas. Need we say more?
Veda Nina Silk Pant, $348, available at Veda.
The Suede Situation
If you're going to make one investment this fall and winter (besides getting a solid coat), we'd say sophisticated suede bottoms are the way to go. They look good, and are festive enough to take you all the way through the holiday season.
Whistles Moore Suede Culottes, $488.88, available at Whistles.
The Miniskirt
Pair with booties and a going-out top for your next night on the town.
Zara Metallic Leather Skirt, $69.90, available at Zara.
The Fall Texture
Experiment with corduroys and velvets when the temperatures cool down. We love how good this slightly wide-legged shape looks with a vintage band tee.
Reformation Jones Pant, $178, available at Reformation.
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