Corduroy Is Cool, Actually

Hear that? It’s the sound of the world wearing corduroy again.

A fabric you can always hear coming, corduroy has long had a complicated reputation thanks to the swishy sound it makes as you walk and its distinctly retro ribbed aesthetic. Remember when Miranda wanted to bring Steve to her fancy lawyer work event in Sex and the City? His mustard corduroy suit was the antithesis of her polished black tie dress code — a style-based conflict that led to their inevitable split.

Corduroy, time and time again, tends to be shunned in prestige sartorial spaces as a dated, not-so-chic statement. Still, its staying power prevails, with the age-old textile (which dates back to ancient Egypt!) routinely rearing its head on runways and popping up in fashionista feeds. Ups and downs aside, corduroy is always cool. And this season, it’s especially du jour.

How to wear corduroy this fall

Where’s the line between playful intentionality and feeling frumpy? Take a cue from the Spring 2025 runways. From Philipp Plein to Chopova Lowena to S.S.Daley (below), today’s reigning corduroy looks are slouchy co-ords that lean into the fabric’s eclectic personality.

If you’re not sure where to start, try incorporating cords through fall’s favourite hues, from red wine rompers to a pair of moody brown trousers. Plus, don’t underestimate the power of a quality corduroy blazer. Whether worn oversized or cinched with a belt, styling it with personalized touches is the perfect way to reclaim corduroy’s contention.

The best corduroy pieces to shop now

Frame Everyday corduroy blazer

The classic blazer, reimagined. Frame’s warm brown take on the classic professional jacket has all the elements of an office-wear overcoat with the unique character of corduroy. The silhouette is sharp, with subtly structured shoulders, a notched lapel and antique brass buttons, while the ribbed texture gives it a retro finish.

Wear it with coordinating corduroy pants and chunky boots for an all-in look, or style with unexpected pairings like a flowy satin skirt, a crisp oversized tee and Mary Janes for a feminine finish.

WantGor corduroy tote bag

Pictured here in the eternally trendy olive green, this tote bag also comes in six other colours. Crafted with a wide shoulder strap, it’s designed for all-day wearability. Available in a large size roomy enough to fit your laptop, water bottle and other essential supplies, it also comes with one inside pocket for easy organization on the go.

Thanks to its lightweight feel, it’s also the perfect travel companion.

Gap high-rise corduroy tapered trousers

These chocolate-coloured trousers are your ticket into the barrel-cut trend. The subtly bloated silhouette creates a baggy effect that cinches slightly at the ankles for a fit that is both loose and polished. Plus, they hug closely at the waist, so you don’t compromise on comfort or the satisfaction of a snug fit.

Complete with a high-rise, tapered-leg design, these pants come with a concealed zip fly closure and front slant pockets that blend into the design’s pleating. Storage and style.

Anthropologie The Collette maxi skirt

The maxi skirt is a go-to for transitional weather dressing. But the maxi skirt in corduroy? That’s peak fall fashion. This Anthropologie offering comes in a light brown shade with front pockets and crisp stitching down the middle that elongates the silhouette.

To style, try following the model’s lead and pair with a chunky belt and buckle-adorned riding boots. Available in petite and plus sizes, this skirt is truly crafted for everyone.

Free People Silver Bells romper

The changing of the season calls for pieces that let you layer. This crimson-coloured romper can take you from temperate autumnal days to polished holiday parties. Designed to be dressed up or down, Free People’s feminine-style romper is adorned with a cool corduroy feel and fanciful puffed sleeves and a classic scoop neckline.

For warmer days, pair with romantic lace or mesh tops. And in chillier temps, style atop a turtleneck and opaque bright tights for colour-blocking coolness.

Twik corduroy shirt

With winter around the corner, everyone needs a good corduroy button-up. Twik’s take, made from recycled materials and sold by Canadian brand Simons, can double as a light jacket or a snowy-day top. Featuring a sky-blue hue, a patch pocket on the chest and a soft corduroy texture, it exudes effortless comfort. As a result of the rounded bottom hem and crisp collar, it mixes casual and elevated aesthetics.

Cloth & Co. The Corduroy trench coat

Not sure where to start with the corduroy trend? Consider a trench. Sustainable brand Cloth & Co.’s take on the outerwear staple comes with a wraparound belt, structured shoulders and a polished cape panel finish that is designed to pair seamlessly with all cold-weather outfits. Made of organic cotton, its complete with an inner drawstring for fit customization and deep patch pockets for ample storage.

Levi’s ribcage corduroy

With a ‘70s and ‘90s inspired super-high rise design, this iteration of Levi’s iconic Ribcage jeans have a sturdier fit than your average denim, thanks to their cord feeling. Pictured in a deep, dark purple, this pair of pants is the ideal piece to bring you into autumnal dressing. Thanks to the high-waisted silhouette, they hug and define your waistline while offering a leg-lengthening finish.