Cigarette trousers are a fashion classic that will work with every outfit you're planning for autumn

Ok, we admit, the name is problematic. But cigarette trousers are one of the cleverest trouser options you could ever invest in. Their sleek leg shape tapers slightly, hitting the ankle (so they don’t actually follow the silhouette of a real cigarette *eye roll emoji*) and their tailored style makes them ideal for your IRL office days.

Cigarette trousers often finish neatly on the actual waistline, creating a smooth line. Turn them into a suit with a matching blazer or wear them with a silky camisole top for after-dark. They look particularly cool with an oversized shirt to bring a play on proportions to your outfit. As cigarette trousers usually stop at the ankle, they'll go with a huge array of shoes - from loafers to heels, boots or trainers.

They’re the sort of piece you imagine grown-up French fashion icons like Ines de la Fressange, Betty Catroux or Emmanuelle Alt have on repeat. Who doesn’t want to emulate that set of legends?

If you want to find a pair of cigarette trousers that come as a suit for maximum versatility, Warehouse have a smart pair in electric blue, which has a matching blazer.

ASOS have a smart pair in blush and they also do a suiting style that comes in autumnal claret. There's a smart check version too, which would be ideal with a black leather blazer.

If you are ready to make an investment in the classics, The Row's stretch wool skinny pants are a cult buy while Khaite's ‘Dresden’ trousers are on their way to becoming a modern classic for their versatile style.

Topshop's apple green trousers will add a hit of dopamine dressing to any autumn outfit (try them with a lilac or hot pink jumper) and we love Karen Millen's gold-trimmed tuxedo pants with a black lace blouse for after dark.

As we head into winter, Weekend Max Mara's velvet trousers in a rich merlot shade (a key colour for AW22) are a cosy yet luxurious choice and we also found a faux leather pair from Stella McCartney that will work for seasons to come…

Read more from Glamour UK Fashion Director at large Alex Fullerton here or follow her on Instagram @alexandrafullerton. After more shopping content? Shop the best jeans for women here.

Scroll through our edit of the absolute best cigarette trousers to shop now.