We Tried Aritzia’s Viral Work Pants — and the Results Have Us Divided

What Alexandra Tested...

The Effortless Pant™ - (Re)ssential ($148)

Why Alexandra Tested...

Test Results...

• Versatility: These pants are really great for officewear. They feel chic and elevated, and I really loved pairing them with a sweater and loafers for work. But I especially love that I could pair them with a simple black top and still feel cute for date night. It's easy to take them in any direction and I very much appreciate that they’re high-waisted. 

• Fabric: I was really into the pleated front, roomy pockets, and overall (mid) weight of the fabric. It’s a solid, reliable trouser made with 58% recycled polyester and 28% LENZING™ ECOVERO™ viscose, which makes them stretchy and comfortable without weighing me down.  

• Size: I got the regular inseam (appropriate for people 5'3-5'7). Upon trying on, I realized Aritzia pants run small. I got a size 10 because I wanted them to be baggier on me (I usually wear a 6/8.) While the size 10 fit fine, they were not as baggy or oversized as I had hoped. I turned to the internet to look up public opinion on the brand’s sizing and received a lot of feedback (thanks, Reddit) that yes, typically their garments run small. I wish this was called out more explicitly on the product page, because the "customers say true to size" note feels incorrect. 

What Caroline Tested...

The Effortless Pant™ - Crepette™ ($148)

Why Caroline Tested...

Test Results...

• Length: Unfortunately, even the short inseam (27 ¼ inches in my size) was ever so slightly too long for me. I could get away with wearing them with heels, but they dragged on the ground too much when worn with sneakers or flats. I only had my tailor take about half an inch off the hem, so if you’re in the majority of people who are taller than 5 feet, you’ll be just fine.

• Fit: Other than the hem, the actual fit is pitch-perfect. I got the 00, my usual size, and the waistband hits right around my waist (I would call it a mid-rise, rather than a true high-rise). The waistband doesn’t dig or pinch. 

• Style: These are the perfect balance between louche and polished, thanks to the drapey Crepette material and classic, menswear-inspired front knife pleat. I treat them as an elevated alternative to jeans and wear them with chunky sweaters and sneakers. But they’re also a natural pairing for heels and going-out tops for nice dinners and events. Definition of effortlessly stylish.

• Quality: These are not inexpensive, but I will say that I prefer the fit, feel, and overall look to trousers hanging in my closet that were double the price. In fact, I love them so much that I got them in the low-rise style as well, which I actually prefer to this standard rise.

Sidenotes...

• Aritzia’s The Effortless Pant™ comes in a variety of fabrics (with minimal style variations), like Crepette, CruiseLinen™, Wool, (Re)ssential Light, Satin, Linen, Refined, and Twill. 

• The pants are available in curve sizes, a low-rise waist, and short, regular, and tall lengths.

The Fine Details...

• The Effortless Pant™ - (Re)ssential ($148)

• The Effortless Pant™ - Crepette™ ($148)