M&S cord trousers in five colours praised as 'so comfortable' for autumn at £28
M&S cord trousers in five colours praised as comfortable at £28

Marks and Spencer has released a pair of trousers that shoppers are calling 'just the thing for autumn', and at £28 they are being hailed as a budget-friendly addition to any wardrobe. The Cord Straight Leg Trousers, available in five colours, are designed to pair with virtually any top and have earned a 4.5 out of five star rating from more than 300 reviews.

Design and availability

The trousers are heavier than cotton but lighter than wool, making them an ideal choice for in-between autumn days, keeping wearers cosy without feeling heavy. They come in sizes six to 24, with lengths including extra short, short/petite, regular and long. Shoppers can choose from black, chocolate brown, claret (dark burgundy), navy and dark khaki.

The cotton-rich corduroy trousers feature a high-waisted design with a traditional button and zip fastening. The straight-leg silhouette includes added stretch in the fabric for comfort, and the versatile design allows them to be styled in countless ways.

Shopper reviews

One satisfied shopper said: "Very comfortable, high-waisted trousers. Just right for the colder months. Fitted me perfectly." Another wrote: "Great straight leg cords in a lovely rich chocolate brown colour! I don’t always want to wear wide leg trousers and these are a super smart alternative. A very reasonable price too."

A third reviewer added: "Great value. I don’t know how you sell these for so little. Nice cords, good fit, warm and comfortable. Thankfully the front pockets are a little deeper than the similar cords from previous years so my tissues don’t fall out all the time."

Mixed feedback and alternatives

However, not all reviews were glowing. One shopper gave the trousers a three-star review, saying: "The fit is good but the material is very shiny unlike the material from previous years." Another three-star review noted: "I liked the quality of the material. However, as a straight leg using a thick cord, they seemed too baggy and shapeless for my taste. A slim cut would suit this material better."

Despite this, others were full of praise. One five-star review reads: "These trousers really do look more expensive than they cost. There is plenty of room without them being in the least baggy, and the colour is lovely and rich. I’m really looking to wearing them, I’m already thinking I need another pair."

For those seeking alternatives, Next's Fine Black Wide Leg Soft Cord Trousers are priced at £29, featuring an elasticated waistband, cord tie drawstrings and side pockets. White Stuff's Brooke Cord Straight Trousers have been reduced by 20% from £59 to £47.20, available in dark navy and dark green with a classic straight-leg cut and a hint of stretch.