Last year I got some good advice on how to make these pleated trousers work for me - I was totally off them for November to January but back wearing them this week.

https://youlookfab.com/welookf.....-hard-work

My conclusions:
- These work with sandals and sneakers (or similar) but I don't like them with boots on me. Showing the ankle is key. A less bulky sneaker feels better (not my chunky Veja but a more streamlined leather sneaker).
- I think the welted top and no belt is the best way to wear them, the low contrast pink and brown with the self belt is okay.
- These are transitional weather pants - or even summer - but not winter (for me). A light sweater and sneakers in autumn will work - but when I start adding boots and coats the pleats feel off on me.
- Part of my frustration is caused by the poor design of the self belt. The trousers are on the loose side around the waist and seat - I didn't try the size down and I think this is the right size but they are defintely not too small. The self belt that comes with them I have to wear on the largest or second largest hole - there are eight holes in total. I think the fabric belt might be for all sizes from smallest to largest - and poorly sized. It feels a bit off!

I had considered passing these on but I think knowing the constraints I will continue to wear them almost as a work uniform one day a week over the next few months.

Thanks for the suggestions!