Fall

Are Corduroy Pants in Style in 2025 & What Do You Wear Them With?

I’ve always thought of corduroy pants as the country cousin to jeans—nice, just not as cool. (Lol!) But that’s changing. This fall, corduroy is having a serious comeback, and the new versions couldn’t feel more modern. Think sleeker silhouettes, finer textures, and rich, sophisticated colors that make cords look totally fresh again.

So yes, it’s safe to say corduroy pants are absolutely in style for 2025! Below, I’m sharing what makes them so flattering, the most current styles to try, and how to wear them in chic, modern ways for women over 40, 50, and 60.

 

brown straight leg cords, blue cashemere top, blue sneakers

Shop the look

 

Why Corduroy Pants Are Back 

  • Softer, stretchier fabrics = comfort + polish.
  • Modern silhouettes include straight and wide-leg cuts.
  • Rich seasonal colors that flatter mature skin tones.
  • A perfect mix of classic and contemporary, and let’s face it, they are a nice, cozy alternative to jeans!

Are Corduroy Pants in Style in 2025?

Absolutely! Designers are revisiting classic textures and giving them a fresh twist, and corduroy fits right into this season’s love for relaxed elegance. From slim, fine-wale cords that feel almost velvety to dramatic wide-leg styles that drape beautifully, there’s a fit and fabric for every woman.

They’re also part of the “quiet luxury” mood—refined, timeless, and comfortable. And unlike denim, cords instantly add texture and depth to any outfit.

If you’re looking for full outfit formulas and styling rules, don’t miss my companion post: How to Wear Corduroy (and Look Chic, Not Retro).

The Best Corduroy Pants Styles for 2025

Deborah Boland wearing brown straight leg corduroy pants and short sleeve navy cashmere top and navy sneakers.

Talbots straight leg cords | cashmere tee | sneakers (similar) 

1) Straight-Leg Corduroy Pants

The straight-leg is the most classic and universally flattering cut—and that’s exactly why it’s having a moment again. These are the cords that go everywhere: to brunch, to the office, or shopping with friends.

Choose a pair of straight leg cords in fine- or mid-wale corduroy for a smooth, elegant look. Try warm neutrals like camel or chocolate, or rich fall tones like plum or navy. Pair with a silky blouse or soft sweater and finish the look with sneakers, loafers, or ankle boots. It’s an easy, pulled-together outfit that feels modern and sporty.

Deborah Boland wearing rust wide leg corduroy pants with , brick striped shirt and mary jane flats.Wide-leg cords add movement and polish—balance them with a fitted top or tucked layer. 

shop the look

 

2) Wide-Leg Corduroy Pants

If you love a fashion-forward silhouette, go for a wide-leg pair. These add instant drama and elegance to your outfit. The key is balance—since the leg is full, keep your top fitted or tucked in to define your waist. This Spanx shirt looks perfect paired with these gorgeous wide-leg cords.

Wide-leg cords are especially flattering on women with curvy hips or fuller thighs. They elongate the legs and move beautifully when you walk. For a layered look, pair them with a fitted turtleneck or sweater, a cropped jacket, or a structured blazer. Add heeled boots or loafers to keep proportions sleek. If you have long legs like me, you can get away with flats, like these cute Mary Janes.

shop the look

3) Slim Fine-Wale Corduroy Pants

If you prefer a tailored look, fine-wale cords are your best friend. The narrow ridges create a smooth surface that feels almost like velvet. They skim the body instead of clinging, so they’re flattering without feeling tight. These plum slim straight leg cords are J. Jill, but they are sold out in this color, so I have linked some other similar brands in plum.

Try them in deep colors like espresso, charcoal, teal,  plum, or burgundy. Pair with a chunky, textured sweater like this in a similar color for a classy tone-on-tone look. Flat slingbacks finish off this casually elegant look. Slim cords also look great paired with an oversized sweater or a slightly cropped blazer for a balanced look. Add ballet flats or low block-heel booties.

 

purple straight leg corduroy pantsFine-wale cords give a sleek, modern edge while staying soft and comfortable. This color is gorgeous! 

Best Colors of Corduroy for Fall 2025

  • Classic neutrals, such as camel, chocolate brown, and navy, never go out of style.
  • Rich hues: try plum, burgundy, or olive for a fresh yet timeless look.
  • Soft shades, such as rose, cream, or sage, add a feminine and modern touch.

What Tops and Shoes Go Best With Corduroy Pants

Because corduroy is textured, it pairs well with smooth fabrics above—think silk, cotton, or fine knits. For a more rustic, earthy look, opt for a sweater with subtle texture. Wondering about shoes? You can’t go wrong with loafers, ankle boots, or heeled mules. Want something casual? Sneakers look surprisingly chic with straight-leg cords.

Corduroy Outfit Inspiration

Looking for even more ways to style corduroy pants? I’ve rounded up a few fresh outfit ideas featuring the latest straight, wide, and slim styles below. Think of it as your little fall corduroy lookbook — perfect for getting inspired before your next shopping trip.

red corduroy flare jeans and red ombre sweater

Flare corduroy Pants

shop the look

 

 

 

Corduroy pants outfit. Gray washed corduroy jeans, white wrap top, off white booties

Wisdom Wide-Leg Washed Corduroy Pants

shop the look

 

black wide leg corduroy jeans with black floral print sweater and black booties

NYDJ Wide Leg Corduroy Pants

shop the look

 

 

green straigh leg corduroy pants with gray sweater, black booties and bag

KUT from the Kloth High-Waisted Flare Cords

shop the look

 

 

Frequently Asked Questions About Corduroy Pants

Are corduroy pants in style for fall 2025?

Yes! Corduroy pants are back in style thanks to updated fabrics, flattering cuts, and luxurious textures. They offer a polished alternative to jeans that still feels relaxed and wearable.

What tops look good with corduroy pants?

Try sweaters, silk blouses, or crisp shirts to balance the texture. Avoid heavy or bulky tops with wide-leg cords, as they can make the outfit look boxy.

Are corduroy pants flattering for mature women?

Absolutely. Fine-wale cords with a bit of stretch skim your curves beautifully. Straight-leg and slim styles are especially elongating, while wide-leg styles add modern flair.

Can I wear corduroy pants to work?

Definitely. Pair straight-leg cords with a silk blouse and loafers, or fine-wale cords with a blazer and ankle boots for an elevated, professional look.

The Takeaway

Corduroy pants are officially back in style—and they’re better than ever. With modern fits, flattering textures, and chic colors, they offer a perfect blend of comfort and polish for women over 40, 50, and 60. Whether you prefer straight, wide, or slim fine-wale styles, cords are an easy way to look current while staying true to yourself.

Next read: See more outfit ideas in How to Wear Corduroy (and Look Chic, Not Retro).

 

Share

Meet the author

Deborah Boland

Deborah, a former Fashion & Lifestyle TV host and Image Consultant, understands the style challenges women face in their 40s, 50s, and 60s. As the founder of Fabulous After 40, she helps women tweak their chic and embrace fashion with confidence—so they always look and feel amazing.

Join the Conversation

7 thoughts on “Are Corduroy Pants in Style in 2025 & What Do You Wear Them With?

  1. I’m so glad you loved J. Jill jeans and the beautiful cords you have on. They are a great fit and look fabulous on you! I have been shopping for Jill jeans since the late 90s or early 2000s when the store opened here. It is a great jean if it has the word authentic on the jean. I don’t usually wear a cord since I’m petite and have found the old cords added bulk, but the ones you wear do not. I may try them! Thanks for the great review on them!

    1. Hi Bonnie, Thank you for the lovely compliment. They do not add bulk at all, which is one of the main reasons I love them. I always go for a finer look. I’m pretty much new to J.Jill but have been quite impressed with their fall picks. I couldn’t resist this color either – the wine is so classy. Cheers, Deborah

  2. I love corduroy because it keeps me warm. I got a pair in the winter of 2007/2008 and have been wearing them ever since.

  3. I loved chords as a teen in the 70s. Unfortunately I would start a fire with the friction generated from my thunder thighs!