No Zipper, No Fuss: The Best Pull-On Pants for Fall

There was a time when an elastic waist meant giving up on looking put-together. Not anymore. Today’s pull-on pants borrow every detail from classic trousers (pressed creases, faux welt pockets, clean flat-front waistbands) and hide the comfort where no one can see it. For women 60+, they solve a lot at once: no fiddly buttons, no waistband digging in by mid-afternoon, and a silhouette polished enough for lunch out, church, or a weekend trip.

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What to look for: A wide, flat waistband that lies smooth under a tucked or half-tucked top. Ponte or crepe fabrics that hold their shape instead of clinging. And inseam options. Many of the best styles now come in petite, regular, and tall, so there’s no trip to the tailor.

Here are nine that earn their place in a fall closet.

Spanx PerfectFit Ponte Wide Leg Pant

Here’s the wide-leg version of the Spanx cult favorite. The stretchy ponte and wide silhouette keep it comfortable all day, and it comes in regular, petite, and plus sizes, so it works for almost every height. Wear it with a fitted sweater and booties.

Chico’s Indigo Brigitte Slim Fitting Pant

Deep indigo gives you the ease of denim with a dressier finish. The slim ankle cut looks sharp with loafers or low booties and a tucked-in sweater.

Talbots Woven Wide Leg Cargo Pants

Cargo pants are one of fall’s biggest trends, and this version keeps them grown-up with a clean woven fabric and a wide, easy leg. In chocolate brown, it pairs beautifully with cream knits and tan suede.

Old Navy High-Waisted Stevie Pull-On Pant

This is the budget find. The extra-high waist smooths things out under tops, and the straight leg looks tailored. It’s worth buying in a couple of neutrals.

Pact Organic Airplane Pintuck Pants

A pintuck down the front adds a crease that makes a soft, comfortable pant look pressed. As the name suggests, it’s designed for travel. The deep taupe heather works with nearly every fall color.

Banana Republic Relaxed Fit

If jeans are your weekend uniform, this pair gives you the look of denim without the stiff button and zipper. The wide, relaxed painter’s leg looks current with a chunky sweater and sneakers.