Shoppers are turning away from jeans and leggings this winter in favour of Marks and Spencer's £36 Cord Wide Leg Trousers, which are currently listed as one of the retailer's bestsellers.
A contemporary take on the retro 1970s trend, the Cord Wide Leg Trousers can be dressed up or down, suitable for the office or more casual occasions. Available in sizes 6 to 24 on the M&S website, the trousers come in four lengths: Extra Short, Short/Petite, Regular and Long.
There are three colourways to choose from - Chocolate, Navy and Khaki - all described as perfect for winter wear. Some shoppers have admitted to loving the trousers 'so much' that they have bought all three.
Product details and cheaper alternatives
A description for the £36 Cord Wide Leg Trousers on the M&S website reads: "Made from a cotton rich fabric, these trousers have a high waisted rise and a wide leg shape. They have a hook and bar fastening with a zip. These M&S cord trousers pair well with chunky knits on cooler days."
For those who find £36 a little steep, M&S offers the £28 Cord Straight Leg Trousers, which come in two more colourways. These are available in four sizes: Extra Short, Short/Petite, Regular and Long. A description reads: "Made using a cotton rich fabric, these trousers have a high waisted rise and a straight leg shape. They have a button and zip fastening. These M&S cord trousers are a warm, textured choice for cooler months."
M&S recommends pairing cords with its £26 Air-Yarn Roll Neck Jumper for a retro ensemble. Elsewhere, Joe Browns offers its Beautiful Bootcut Cords for £45 in sizes 6 to 24, described as giving "your weekend look that 70s vibe". At Levi's, the 318 Shaping Wide Leg Corduroy Trousers are priced at £80 and feature a built-in front panel that smooths and supports.
Shopper reviews and ratings
The Cord Wide Leg Trousers hold a near-perfect rating of 4.7 out of five stars. One five-star reviewer said: "Good fit, true to size. Nice colour and material. Good for the colder weather, can dress up or down."
A second wrote: "Feeling retro [and] couldn't resist. It has been years since I owned cord trousers. M&S have some beautiful colour choices. I plumped for the blue and the trousers feel comfortable, look smart enough to dress up for a night out or work."
Another added: "Fits well, true to size, looks smart can be dressed up or down, very pleased." A fourth said: "Bought the brown ones first and loved them so much I now have the navy and green."
One shopper who took a star off for the pockets explained: "Great shape and v. good quality. Side pockets don't fit as flat as should, sewed them up for a better line. Can be dressed up or down. Classy!" Another four-star reviewer noted the width, saying: "I wanted wide leg cord trousers… these are very nice but wider would be even better!"
A five-star review praised the fit, stating: "I've been hunting for the perfect corduroys and finally found them! Im 5'9 and had to get the long leg, they are perfect length and so comfy!" The trousers remain a popular choice for their versatility and retro appeal.
