Track Pants Are Trending for Fall—But They're Not the Ones You Wore in Gym Class

Sporty meets chic

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track pants trend collage
PureWow/Evereve/Nordstrom/Anthropologie

One of my favorite things about the season changing from summer to fall is the influx of fresh fashion trends. Already, I'm obsessed with the rise of chartreuse, the polka dot print that seems to be everywhere and the return of barn jackets. But one new trend that I'm just starting to spot at a ton of retailers (and expect will only get bigger as the season goes on) is an elevated take on track pants.

These aren't the rough nylon styles that you might have sported back in your high school gym class. Rather, they've been reimagined with luxe materials like breathable cotton and chic vegan leather, and feature stylish details that will have you wanting to wear them from the office to a dinner date (yes, really). Below, find five pairs that I'll be shopping before everyone else catches on.

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I'm obsessed with the combo of sportiness and polish that these "track trousers" offer, so of course I already have them waiting in my cart. What's even better than their look, though, is the 100 percent cotton fabric that's sure to make them breathable—along with the fact that they not only come in a wide range of sizes (including plus), but standard, tall and petite lengths, too.

Between the trendy burgundy hue and stretchy waistband of these pants from Z Supply, I just know they'd become an instant fave—especially considering one reviewer gushed that they have a "beautiful drape and great quality." The pants run true to size, per the brand, and you can even snag this sweater vest ($84) that complements them perfectly for easy styling.

According to reviewers, these faux denim track pants from Rag & Bone's viral Miramar line feel as comfy as sweatpants—so really, how can you resist? "Super soft, comfortable faux jeans. Feel very sexy as there’s is no constriction. Super cool pattern on the jeans," shared one buyer who's planning to wear them all through the fall season. They're made from 100 percent cotton and are machine-washable, too, so donning them often won't be a problem when it comes to cleaning.

Reformation's stretchy organic poplin cotton is one of my favorite fabrics—it's  lightweight, airy and *so* incredibly comfy. So of course these pants that are constructed from it are hot on my radar. Personally, I can't get enough of this dark, forest green hue, but they also come in red and black. Plus, they're available in petite sizes, so no hemming is required for us shorter gals.

If you really want to elevate the look of your track pants, run to this faux leather style at Anthropologie. These ones are available in black and brown colorways, with standard, petite, tall and plus size ranges. Not to mention, they're totally effortless since they have an easy (and comfortable!) pull-on style that dresses them down a bit, too, so you can also wear them with a cozy sweater and sneakers for a daytime look.


natalie bio photo e1692204716113

Associate Commerce Editor

  • Writes commerce stories and features that span multiple topics, including fashion, beauty, travel, home and sales/deals
  • Has contributed to reports on ethical fashion and continues to stay up-to-date on sustainablility developments
  • Completed a bachelor's degree in psychology at the University of Pittsburgh and a master's degree in fashion studies at Parsons The New School

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