I have a rule for busy weeks. If an outfit works for a school meeting, a client lunch and dinner out, it’s a keeper. Wide leg trousers pass that test every time, which is why I rounded up these Aritzia Effortless pants alternatives.
The Effortless Pant is a modern classic. It’s high waisted, pleated and flows beautifully when you walk. It also costs $148. So I found 7 lookalikes from Amazon, Walmart, Old Navy and Abercrombie, starting at just $19.
Why Everyone Loves the Aritzia Effortless Pant
The Effortless Pant went viral for a reason. It looks tailored but feels like you’re wearing pajamas. Plus, it flatters so many body types. For reference, the original Effortless Pant is $148 right now.
- High rise waist: it sits at your natural waist and makes your legs look longer.
- Front pleats: soft pleats add shape and that polished, tailored look.
- Wide, flowy leg: the fabric swishes as you walk, which feels so elegant.
- Crepe fabric: the smooth, drapey fabric resists wrinkles.
- Length options: it comes in different inseams, so it works for petite and tall women.
It’s the kind of pant you can wear five days in a row with different tops. That’s a big reason it sells out so often. Once you love the shape, it’s easy to find it for less.
What to Look for in an Aritzia Effortless Pant Alternative
- Fabric: look for crepe or a drapey suiting fabric. Stiff cotton won’t flow the same way.
- Pleats: front pleats give you that tailored shape.
- Rise: a high or extra high rise looks closest to the original.
- Inseam: check the length. A wide leg should skim the top of your shoes.
- Waistband: a hidden elastic back makes them extra comfy for long days.
The 7 Best Aritzia Effortless Pants Alternatives
Free Assembly Women’s Pleated Wide Leg Trousers, $36.00
This is the one I’d grab first. Free Assembly is Walmart’s chicest brand, and these pleated trousers look so polished.
They have a 31.5 inch inseam and come in sizes XS to 4X. That’s a great range.
Pair them with a fitted sweater and loafers. They look far more expensive than they are.
Best for: the closest look for less.
Cicy Bell Women’s Pleated High Waisted Wide Leg Pants, $35.99
These Amazon trousers have front pleats, a high waist and a loose, wide leg. The shape is spot on.
They also have pockets, which I love. The khaki color is perfect for fall.
Wear them to the office with a blazer or on weekends with a tee.
Best for: workwear on a budget.
PRETTYGARDEN Women’s Tailored Wide Leg Dress Pants, $39.99
PRETTYGARDEN is one of my go to Amazon brands. These tailored pants are high waisted and flowy.
The listing describes them as palazzo style, so they have lots of movement. They come in fun colors like pink, too.
I’d style them with a white button down for an easy work outfit.
Best for: a flowy, palazzo feel.
Matty M Women’s Essential Wide Leg Trouser, $18.88
This is the lowest price pick on the list. It’s a simple, classic wide leg trouser in black.
It doesn’t have pleats, so it looks a bit more minimal. Still, the wide leg gives you the same easy, chic shape.
It’s a great everyday pant for running errands or travel days.
Best for: the best value.
GRACE KARIN Women’s High Waisted Wide Leg Dress Pants, $35.14
These GRACE KARIN pants have a high waist, buttons and pockets. They look sharp and polished.
The white version is so pretty for fall with a camel coat. Black is the safest everyday pick.
They’re a great choice for teachers and anyone who wants comfy work pants.
Best for: polished office outfits.
Old Navy Extra High-Waisted Taylor Wide-Leg Trouser, $29.99
Old Navy’s Taylor trousers are a fan favorite for a reason. This extra high waisted version has a long, wide leg.
The extra high rise looks so flattering with a tucked in tee. Check the length options on the product page before you order.
Watch for Old Navy sales, since these go on sale often.
Best for: a flattering extra high rise.
A&F Sloane Tailored Wide Leg Pant, $95.00
The Sloane is the splurge on this list. Still, it costs less than the original.
It has a sleek, tailored look and a wide, flowy leg. The shape is very similar to the Effortless Pant.
If you want a pant that feels truly elevated, this is the one to try.
Best for: a higher end splurge.
How to Style Your Effortless Pant Alternative
Wide leg trousers are one of the most versatile pieces you can own. Here are a few of my favorite looks.
- Office ready: a fitted knit, a long blazer and pointed flats. My Miu Miu ballet flats alternatives look so chic here.
- Weekend chic: a white tee, a cozy cardigan and clean sneakers. Try one from my Jenni Kayne cocoon cardigan alternatives.
- Date night: a satin cami, heeled sandals and gold jewelry.
- Polished errands: a fitted turtleneck, a structured bag and loafers.
One more tip: buy one neutral pair first, like black or navy. Once you see how often you reach for them, add a lighter shade such as cream or grey. Lighter colors look especially fresh in spring.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is similar to the Aritzia Effortless Pant?
Look for high waisted, pleated wide leg trousers in a drapey fabric. The Free Assembly pleated trousers and the Cicy Bell pleated pants are two of the closest.
Does Walmart have an Aritzia Effortless Pant look alike?
Yes. The Free Assembly pleated wide leg trousers are my favorite. The Matty M wide leg trouser is a great budget pick under $20.
Is the Aritzia Effortless Pant worth it?
Many people love the fit and fabric, and it lasts well. Still, at $148, it’s a big purchase. A lookalike lets you try the style for a lot less.
How should wide leg trousers fit?
They should fit snug at the waist and fall straight from the hip. The hem should almost touch the floor with your shoes on. If they’re too long, a quick hem makes a big difference.
Can petite women wear wide leg pants?
Yes, and they look great. Choose a high rise and let the hem skim the top of your shoes. A small heel or platform sneaker also helps. Then tuck in your top to show off your waist. That simple trick keeps the look balanced and long.
Final Thoughts
If I had to pick, the Matty M wide leg trouser is the best value. The Free Assembly pleated trousers are my best overall pick. For a splurge, go with the A&F Sloane pant.
Any of these will give you that polished, easy look all week long. Want a bag to match? See my The Row Margaux bag alternatives too.
Discover more designer look alikes in my ultimate guide to designer alternatives for less.
Disclosure: Please note that some of the links above are affiliate links. At no additional cost to you, I will earn a commission if you purchase after clicking through the link.
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Love a classic, polished look? Don’t miss my Prada loafer alternatives to pair with your new trousers. My Sezane Gaspard cardigan alternatives are perfect for layering, too.
