Classic Cuts
There is a fit—and a color—that's right for everyone. Classic cuts carry off brights best; navy is safer for a trendy wide leg. White on top makes it all pop.
A slim goldenrod pair (Escada, $890), very Audrey Hepburn, suits sculptor and actress Elaine Grove, 64. Cotton poplin top, Piazza Sempione, $470. Earrings, Julie Sandlau. Ring, Kara Ross. Shoes, Bruno Frisoni.
Administrative assistant Adrienne Slater, 48, is jazzed by magenta trousers (Rena Lange, $1,195). Stretch cotton top, Premise, $235. Earrings, Nina Basharova.
A high-waisted style (Lela Rose, $625) makes 37-year-old photographer Hyuna Shin look taller and leggier. Cotton and linen top, Celine, $510. Bracelets (from top), Lia Sophia, Philippe Audibert, Nina Basharova.
Anytime Chic
Double-knit trousers (Three Dots, $190) on Adrienne Slater get our approval because they're as easygoing as they are handsome, and the classic style flatters most women's bodies. Although these pants are definitely work material, they look less executive, more casual Friday with a jacket (Premise, $495) and patent leather sandals (Banana Republic). Tank, Escada, $1,250. Earrings, Gara Danielle.
Great Whites
If you like your pants pristine (Signe Nordstrom adores white's "crisp and elegant" multiseasonal appeal), pick a wide-legged pair in a thicker stretch cotton (Premise, $285) so the pockets—and your panty lines—don't show through. Navy on top (Premise, $295) is a smart contrast; beige and white accessories (bag, Hogan; shoes, Prada) are super useful for summer. Ring, Anna Ruth Henriques.
The 9-to-5 Staple
As a fit model (designers test and perfect clothes on her body), Helen Powers, 54, knows her inseams, and these trousers (Alice + Olivia, $253) aced her comfort test. Instead of allover fullness (fattening!), legs strategically widen below the knee. Jacket, CH Carolina Herrera, $620. Shirt, Moschino Cheap and Chic, $395. Necklace and pendant, Irene Neuwirth. Briefcase, Coach.
The Nicest Price
Adorable seersuckers (Old Navy, $33) on Helen Powers, who is also a handbag designer and shop owner, have a subtle stripe that makes solid colors pop. They're the perfect anchor for your whole spring-summer wardrobe. Top, J.Crew, $88. Cardigan, Tory Burch, $295. Bracelets, Replica for Jennifer Miller. Ring, Island Designs by Harry Haslett. Shoes, Manolo Blahnik.
