I always struggled to find flattering trousers with my pancake bum – then I got the best summer pair in Primark for £10
One New Look pair scored a mere 3 out of 10
LEG IT I always struggled to find flattering trousers with my pancake bum – then I got the best summer pair in Primark for £10
BEING tall and having a pancake bum often makes finding trousers that fit right incredibly challenging.
Thanks to my size 12, 5ft 6in frame, buying trousers often ends up with plenty of huffs and puffs in high street changing rooms, with endless clothes that are either too long or too short, as well as being far too baggy on my behind.
Advertisement
9
Here, Abby Wilson puts eight trousers to the test - and she's found a pair you won't want to miss
Credit: Abigail Wilson
Here, I, Abby Wilson, put eight pairs of trousers to the test, on a mission to find the perfect pair for summer.
And with the weather hopefully heating up soon, I was desperate to find trousers that are not only stylish and bloat-friendly, but lightweight and suitable for warm days too.
So if you're wondering which pair of trousers you should buy and which are best left on the shelf, you'll need to read on and take notes.
Next Pink Wide Leg Pull On Striped Trousers, £26
After seeing these Pink Wide Leg Pull On Striped Trousers as soon as I walked into Next, they instantly caught my eye and I was excited to get my hands on them.
Advertisement
9
These Next trousers are incredibly eye-catching and flattering
Credit: Abigail Wilson
At £26, they aren't the cheapest pair available, but when you feel the quality of them, the price tag will make perfect sense.
Yes, they might look like pyjama bottoms but thankfully, they don't make my pancake bum look even flatter than it already is thanks to the flattering stripe design.
They're bound to turn heads and the elasticated waistband gets a thumbs up from me.
Advertisement
My rating: 8/10
Next Blue/White Textured Gingham Wide Leg Trousers, £26
If you're looking for a pair of trousers that will feel as comfortable as your favourite PJ bottoms, look no further.
9
This pair look like PJs, but are a great length
Credit: Abigail Wilson
I'm undecided if I'm brave enough to wear these Textured Gingham Wide Leg Trousers out of the house, but where length is concerned, they're a great fit.
Advertisement
Fashion fans 'need' Primark's new £14 linen trousers - there's two colours to choose from and they're great for spring
They're a really flattering style and yes, they're super casual and surprisingly, I'm a fan.
I can't say they do any favours for my flat derrière, but from the front, I'm impressed.
My rating: 6/10
New Look Cream Stripe Print Wide Leg Trousers, £29.99
Finding trousers fit for the beach has often been a struggle for me, and it appears that I'll need to continue my search after trying on this New Look pair.
Advertisement
9
The lack of pocket let this pair down
Credit: Abigail Wilson
Much to my disappointment, these Cream Stripe Print Wide Leg Trousers are too short.
And to top things off, they don't have pockets, which is a real bugbear of mine.
If that wasn't bad enough, at just under £30, they're pretty expensive, so unfortunately don't get my seal of approval this season.
Advertisement
My rating: 3/10
New Look Rust Crinkle Texture Wide Leg Trousers, £29.99
Things looked up for New Look with this pair of Crinkle Texture Wide Leg Trousers, as I'm a huge fan of the colour and the length is perfect.
9
While this New Look pair crease very easily
Credit: Abigail Wilson
But like the previous pair, they don't have pockets, which is a big letdown.
Advertisement
And that's not all - they also crease easily, which is less than ideal.
If you don't mind working up a sweat and doing the ironing on holiday then these could be good for you, but for me, I'll unfortunately have to pass.
My rating: 5/10
Hottest fashion trends of 2025
Fabulous' Fashion Editor Clemmie Fieldsend shares the biggest trends from the high street.
The East/West Bag
Baguette bags have had a good run, after returning from the 1990s' shoulders of Sarah Jessica Parker to modern-day fashion icons, like Hailey Bieber.
In 2025, the East/West bag is a similar but elongated shape and has long, thin straps that are easy to throw over your shoulder.
They've been on runway models' arms at nearly ever designer show - think Burberry, Givenchy and Bottega Veneta - and are hitting the high street now, too.
Powder pink
Bright fuchsia pink had its day after the release of Barbie in 2023 and now the more polished and expensive-looking pale shade is taking over for 2025.
Pantone may say that it's the year of Mocha Mousse, but the catwalks say otherwise! From Prada to Erdem, the subtle look was all over the spring/summer catwalks, worn head-to-toe or on its own.
If the sugary shade is too girly for you, then look to sharp suiting for a androgynous take on the colour.
The shell jacket
The '80s classic is back, but with a sleek and minimal new twist for 2025.
We all know we're likely to see rain for most of spring, so your practical coat of choice should be a cagoule jacket.
Depop revealed one of its big trend predictions for this year is retro sportswear, with surges already seen in '80s windbreakers'.
Seen everywhere from the stylish streets of Copenhagen to the Miu Miu catwalk, now mums who have an emergency raincoat crumpled underneath their pushchair are very much in fashion!
The turn-up jeans
While the shape of jeans remains the same for this year and barrel-legs will still be everywhere, the way we're styling them is different.
This season, transform your wide-leg, baggy denims into turn-ups.
For this look, size doesn't matter, so while deep turn-ups are a hit from jean trend-leaders Citizens of Humanity, a slight fold is still just as good - but only as it's just one single fold.
Peep-toe shoe
Get your pedicures booked in sharpish, as this season your toes are the main event.
After a long hiatus, the peep-toe has been welcomed back into the fashion fold, with brands like Hermes, Miu Miu and Tory Burch showing plain and embellished footwear in this style.
From mules to pumps and clogs (yes, clogs will be around too!), there are lots of different styles that are set to sweep the high street.
Sheer blouses
See-through looks have always lived on the catwalk, but have rarely filtered into everyday life - until now.
Designers Ralph Lauren and Tom Ford loved sheer looks on their S/S '25 catwalks and M&S even had sellout success with its black sheer pencil skirt last season.
Expect to see more sheer looks lining supermarket aisles and high street shops in the form of skirts, tops and frocks.
M&S Rose Pink Crepe Elasticated Waist Wide Leg Trousers, £29.50
If you're on the hunt for a colourful pair of trousers that are sure to turn heads, these M&S trousers could be just the pair for you.
Advertisement
9
This pink pair from an M&S get an 8 out of 10
Credit: Abigail Wilson
These rose pink Crepe Elasticated Waist Wide Leg Trousers are not only a stunning shade, but they're spot on with the leg length too.
Even better, they're incredibly versatile - they are appropriate enough to be paired with a white shirt for a business meeting, but are flowy enough that they'll look equally as great with a T-shirt and trainers.
My fellow tall girls will be pleased to know that they're available in a long length, which is a real win, but sizes are selling out fast, so you'll need to move quickly to nab them.
Advertisement
My rating: 8/10
M&S Navy Linen Blend Wide Leg Trousers, £27.50
The M&S Linen Blend Wide Leg Trousers are another pair selling out fast, but there's plenty of other colours I'm desperate to stock up in.
9
This navy pair are also impressive
Credit: Abigail Wilson
I got these comfy and lightweight trousers in navy and they are the newest summer staple in my wardrobe.
Advertisement
Thanks to their lightweight material, I'm sure they'll be effective for keeping cool, without having to scrimp on style.
Why Everyone Is Loving M&S
Deputy Fashion Editor Abby McHale revealed to Fabulous why M&S is the shop of the moment. She explained:
'M&S has really pulled it out of the bag this season, there is so much good product to be excited about.
'A brand once known for its 'frumpy fashion' that notion is long gone with it now being one of the leading high street stores for womenswear.
'Its handbag range in particular is super strong with them selling 170% vs plan, with lots more designer dupes for just a fraction of the price.
'The brand is now also the #1 for style perceptions, compared to the #3 spot it had last year, this comes from a really strong design team focused on modernising the brand, not only taking into consideration how the pieces look, but how easy they are to wear also.
'Price is also a big factor with you being able to get many good quality pieces all for under £30.
'After having a sneak peak of the upcoming collection there are so many more amazing pieces that are dropping over the next few months to keep your eyes on.
'Think leopard print dresses, colourful co-ords, embroidered boho jackets, plus lots of swimwear and amazing accessories, as well as great wardrobe staples that will last year on year.'
They are the perfect wide leg and the elasticated waist is a winner for me - so you can say goodbye to uncomfortable trousers digging in at your stomach after scoffing a tasty meal thanks to this M&S pair.
My rating: 9/10
Primark Wide Leg Plissé Trousers, £10
Unlike all of the other trousers I tried, these Wide Leg Plissé Trousers are without doubt the most flattering on my bum.
Advertisement
9
But the winning pair is only £10 from Primark
Credit: Abigail Wilson
According to Primark bosses, these floaty trousers are 'made for movement (and compliments)' and I can definitely see why.
The pull-on waistband went down well in my book and for once, I actually look like I have a bit of a bum in these.
To top it off, they're incredibly lightweight and can also be great dressed up or down - what's not to like?
Advertisement
My rating: 10/10
Primark Crinkle Wide Leg Trousers, £12
And it's clear that Primark are slaying the trouser game this summer, as these Crinkle Wide Leg Trousers are another winner for me.
9
And this pair are another great bargain
Credit: Abigail Wilson
They're only £12, so a proper bargain and they're really cool and airy too.
Advertisement
The crinkle style is ultra flattering and even better, the colour is bang on trend.
The only downside is they don't have pockets, but despite this, I can already see myself wearing these time and time again this season.
My rating: 9/10
Unlock even more award-winning articles as The Sun launches brand new membership programme - Sun Club
Advertisement
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Daily Mirror
an hour ago
- Daily Mirror
Boden's 'perfect' summer dress shoppers say 'looks flattering on everyone'
The Boden Anna Double Cloth Midi Dress has been praised for having the 'perfect fit' with a flattering fit-and-flare shape - and it's on sale When it comes to looking effortlessly chic during the warmer months, nothing beats a 'throw-on-and-go' frock that instantly looks elegant. These versatile pieces are wonderfully versatile, and fashion lovers have discovered the perfect option at Boden. Customers are going wild for the Anna Double Cloth Midi Dress, and it's easy to understand the hype. Praised as offering the 'perfect fit', this 100% cotton number features a gorgeous fit-and-flare silhouette complete with handy pockets. The Anna Double Cloth Midi Dress in white or green normally retails for £98, but savvy shoppers can snap it up for £68.60. The jam red version has been reduced to £68.80, whilst the vibrant blue style is marked down even further to £58.80. This versatile piece comes in sizes four to 22 across petite, regular and long lengths, with most sizes still available online. The Anna Double Cloth Midi Dress has won over buyers, earning an impressive 4.5 out of five stars from more than 50 customer reviews, reports the Manchester Evening News. One delighted shopper said: "Love this dress - have it in three colours. Material is so nice and looks very flattering on. Bonus that it has pockets too." Another purchaser agreed, saying: "So good I have it in three colours." The gentle fabric and flowing tiered skirt help keep you cool, whilst the contrasting waistband creates a gorgeous silhouette and defines the waist beautifully. The frock features a lined bodice for a smoother, more comfortable wear. Other reviewers have reported receiving compliments from strangers while wearing the dress. One said: "Love this dress. Great fit and colour (blue). "I've even had a stranger in the street stop to compliment me. Sits beautifully by skimming curves but shaping at the waistline without pinching. Love the sleeve length too. Just the right coverage for my top of arms." But another found it 'ill-fitting', explaining: "It's too big and low at the bust and far too long." Another shopper agreed and returned the dress. They said: "Unfortunately around the bust area there was too much material and it sat away from my body gaping and exposing my bra." Shoppers hunting for summery white dresses are in for a treat with New Look's White Crinkled Frilly Trim Midi Dress at £14 (was £24.99). This 100 per cent cotton number is airy with a loose fit and Bohemian ruffles. Next stocks a pricier 100% linen midi dress at £65, featuring stylish shirred elasticated details. For something slightly more glamorous, River Island delivers with a bow-detailed White Sleeveless Bow Detail Corset Dress for £46 in black or pink. Fashion lovers have gushed about the Boden Anna Double Cloth Midi Dress with one noting: "True to size - beautiful colour. Great item that can be dressed up or down." Whilst another review read: "Love it. Very flattering, perfect fit and length. It's quite heavy with the double cloth but excellent quality. I'm sure I will wear it a lot."
Scottish Sun
3 hours ago
- Scottish Sun
A £1.50 Primark buy is a lifesaver for the summer holidays – it stops the kids moaning for snacks every 15 minutes
Find out how to survive the summer holidays SNACK TIME A £1.50 Primark buy is a lifesaver for the summer holidays – it stops the kids moaning for snacks every 15 minutes A SAVVY mum has revealed the £1.50 Primark buy that's saving her sanity this summer and parents are rushing to copy the idea. She shared her summer holiday struggle, trying to keep on top of her kid's "moaning" and endless snack requests. 2 A crafty mum shared her Primark buy that's a lifesaver for the summer holidays Credit: Tiktok/ @foodiefun 2 The mum uses Primark's Collapsible Mini Storage Crate as a snack box Credit: primark The TikTok mum, known as @foodiefunwithus, now preps snack boxes for her kids each morning using the store's mini collapsing crates. Her clever trick seems to have put a pause on the children asking for snacks as they are now allocated a single box and have to responsibly control their portions. The crates cost just £1.50 each in Primark, making them cheaper than Dunelm's £3 version. They also come in pretty pastel shades including mint, cream and light pink. Posting online, the mum wrote: 'Now the summer holidays are here, so are the constant snack requests. 'Six small snacks. Their choice. Their timing. And if they want to eat them all before 10am, that's fine. But once they're gone, they're gone.' And it's not just a hack for cutting down the snack moaning, it's also teaching kids a little independence. 'It stops them nagging at you for more snacks,' she added. 'But it is also teaching them independence and decision-making.' Parents in the comments were obsessed with the idea. How to keep your paddling pool spotless and safe this summer One user wrote: 'I make lunch boxes just like school – it's the best!' Another said: 'This is such a good idea! Low cost too, trying not to overspend this summer." While a third added: 'I did this, it worked really well!' The handy crates have proved such a hit that they're flying off the shelves and at just £1.50 a pop, it's no wonder. It comes as Primark recently announced big changes to its kids' clothing range after months of feedback from parents. The budget retailer revealed it's ditching neck labels across its children's clothing and nightwear lines, after parents said the tags were uncomfortable, particularly for kids with sensory issues. The move will be rolled out across t-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies and pyjamas, with seamless socks also being introduced. So while you're stocking up on pastel crates to keep the snack moaning at bay, you might want to check out the new tag-free clothes too.
The Sun
4 hours ago
- The Sun
A £1.50 Primark buy is a lifesaver for the summer holidays – it stops the kids moaning for snacks every 15 minutes
A SAVVY mum has revealed the £1.50 Primark buy that's saving her sanity this summer and parents are rushing to copy the idea. She shared her summer holiday struggle, trying to keep on top of her kid's "moaning" and endless snack requests. 2 The TikTok mum, known as @foodiefunwithus, now preps snack boxes for her kids each morning using the store's mini collapsing crates. Her clever trick seems to have put a pause on the children asking for snacks as they are now allocated a single box and have to responsibly control their portions. The crates cost just £1.50 each in Primark, making them cheaper than Dunelm's £3 version. They also come in pretty pastel shades including mint, cream and light pink. Posting online, the mum wrote: 'Now the summer holidays are here, so are the constant snack requests. 'Six small snacks. Their choice. Their timing. And if they want to eat them all before 10am, that's fine. But once they're gone, they're gone.' And it's not just a hack for cutting down the snack moaning, it's also teaching kids a little independence. 'It stops them nagging at you for more snacks,' she added. 'But it is also teaching them independence and decision-making.' Parents in the comments were obsessed with the idea. How to keep your paddling pool spotless and safe this summer One user wrote: 'I make lunch boxes just like school – it's the best!' Another said: 'This is such a good idea! Low cost too, trying not to overspend this summer." While a third added: 'I did this, it worked really well!' The handy crates have proved such a hit that they're flying off the shelves and at just £1.50 a pop, it's no wonder. It comes as Primark recently announced big changes to its kids' clothing range after months of feedback from parents. The budget retailer revealed it's ditching neck labels across its children's clothing and nightwear lines, after parents said the tags were uncomfortable, particularly for kids with sensory issues. The move will be rolled out across t-shirts, sweatshirts, hoodies and pyjamas, with seamless socks also being introduced. So while you're stocking up on pastel crates to keep the snack moaning at bay, you might want to check out the new tag-free clothes too. How to survive six weeks of school summer holidays IF you are struggling with the six week summer holidays, you've come to the right place... BATTLING BOREDOM: Despite hours of activities and playdates, if your kids are already complaining there's nothing to do, parenting expert Liat Hughes Joshi says: 'Don't feel you have to organise every second of the holidays. Kids benefit from boredom and learn to make their own fun. 'Boredom can trigger creative and imaginative play but you need to encourage kids to get used to not being told how to spend their time. 'Ride out the pleas of boredom. Counter it with comments such as, 'What do you think you could do?' and maybe have a list of 'I'm bored' activity ideas on the fridge.' SCREEN OVERLOAD: It's tempting during the holidays to rely on a digital babysitter but don't let them gawp their whole summer away in front of a screen. Liat says: 'It's unfair to expect older kids to power down but it's important to set some ground rules. 'Set family tech rules together. If you're often distracted by your phone, follow the rules too. Maybe tell the kids they aren't allowed any screen time until they've done set chores, some exercise, or a board game. 'Are there times when you'd like to ban screens completely? Perhaps during dinner or when they have friends over to visit. 'Tech is a battleground for parents, but you have to set boundaries. Stand firm and be prepared to be unpopular.' TOO MUCH TOGETHERNESS: You love your kids, but being with them 24/7 can be exhausting. Do not feel guilty if you need a bit of downtime. Liat says: 'If you're juggling work and household tasks as well as occupying the kids, it's normal to start feeling overwhelmed or jaded and in need of some peace. 'If you can't afford or don't want to send your kids to all-day camps, look for free kids' workshops so you can get on with jobs or have a break for a couple of hours. 'Seeking a spell of quiet every now and then doesn't make you a bad parent — in fact it will probably make you more positive and enthusiastic when you are with the kids.' SCHEDULING CONFLICT: Schedules can go out the window during holidays, but late nights and early mornings can mean tired and unhappy children. Dr Tamara Bugembe, paediatrician and founder of says: 'Children get grumpy, test boundaries and become challenging when routines are broken. 'Sticking to some kind of routine during the holidays is a good idea. 'We release hormones at different times of the day and when regular meal times and bed times are broken, it causes dips and peaks in mood. 'Holidays are about having fun but an early night once or twice a week will make everyone happier.' EXCESS ENERGY: Make sure kids get out in the fresh air to tire them out — and make them healthier and happier. Dr Bugembe says: 'Sunshine also tops up vital vitamin D levels which helps improve bone strength and energy levels in children. Our levels run low in winter so let the kids stock up in warmer weather. 'Letting them run around in shorts and a T-shirt is the best way to top up. Make sure they're wearing sun cream, get outside and have fun. 'Encourage them to try healthy habits such as cycling and walking. They'll hopefully get hooked and want to carry them on when the weather gets colder.'
