Zella Wide Leg Pants

Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing Your New Favorite Pants

Wide leg pants are truly having a moment right now in women’s fashion. The silhouette provides both comfort and style, looking chic whether dressed up or down. As many brands have started offering their own wide leg styles, one of the most popular is Zella. Zella’s wide leg pants are known for their perfect fit, flattering waistbands, performance fabric, and versatile wear.

I’ve been a huge fan of Zella leggings for years but was eager to try their wide leg pants for both workout and casual wear. After testing multiple pairs, I’m sharing everything you need to know before buying Zella wide leg pants for yourself! From sizing and features to care and styling tips, consider this your complete shopping guide.

Key Features of Zella Wide Leg Pants

Zella’s wide leg pants contain many of the same features that make their leggings so popular. The fabric is designed for performance during workouts with four-way stretch, moisture wicking technology, and a lightweight feel. The waistband is also signature Zella with a thick, wide band that stays put without digging in.

Some additional characteristics that make Zella’s wide leg pants unique are:

• Ultra-soft fabric – Made from a polyester/spandex blend, the fabric feels supple and smooth against the skin.
• Versatile wear – The pants can be dressed up with heels and a blazer or down with sneakers and a tee. Equally perfect for the gym, running errands, travel, and lounging at home.
• Flattering fit – The wide leg silhouette and stretch fabric combine to create a figure-flattering shape. The waist hits at the natural waist.
• Vented cuffs – Extra roominess allows complete freedom of movement while subtle vents at the hems give a tapered look.

How Zella Wide Leg Pants Fit

One of the most important factors when clothes shopping online is understanding how an item fits. Here’s an overview of the fit and sizing for Zella wide leg pants:

• True to size – For the most part, Zella pants run true to size so order your typical size. They have a bit of stretch for a comfortable fit with room to move.
• Slim, tapered leg – While called wide leg, the shape is closer to a straight leg that widens toward the ankle. The leg is not overly full.
• Mid-rise – The waistband hits right at your natural waistline for coverage without coming up too high. For many women, this is a comfortable medium rise.
• Available in petite and tall lengths – Choose regular inseam for average heights, petite for under 5’4″, and tall for over 5’9″. Perfect for proper pant length.
• Accommodate thinner to average builds – The legs are cut to flatter slim to athletic body types best. Curvier figures may prefer a style with more room through the hips and thighs.

Where to Buy Zella Wide Leg Pants

Zella is one of Nordstrom’s exclusive activewear clothing brands. You can find the wide leg pants at Nordstrom online, in Nordstrom stores, or on the Zella website. Styles frequently sell out so I recommend moving quick if you spot a pattern or color you like!

Occasionally you can score Zella pants at discount retailers like Nordstrom Rack, TJMaxx, or Marshall’s but the selection is not as reliable. Your best bet for the newest colors and prints is directly through Nordstrom or Zella.

Size Availability

One great perk of Zella pants is the wide range of sizes available to fit more body types. Here are the size options currently offered:

Women’s sizes: XXS – XXL

• Waist sizes 00 – 20

Petite sizes: XSP – XL

• Waist sizes 00P – 14P
• Inseam 28.5″

Tall sizes: XST – XLT

• Waist sizes 00T – 14T
• Inseam 32″

With multiple lengths and an inclusive size chart, most women should be able to find a pair of Zella wide legs to fit comfortably. Try them on in store if possible to determine what size works best for your body.

Using Zella Wide Legs for Workouts

While they can definitely be worn as everyday pants, one big perk of Zella bottoms is the performance fabric designed for active lifestyles. The wide leg pants are completely workout-ready as well.

Some of the workout-friendly features include:

• Stretchy, sweat-wicking fabric – Four-way stretch moves with you while quickly drying moisture during intense exercise.
• Lightweight yet opaque – You don’t need to worry about embarrassing visibility issues during squats or lunges!
• Vented hem – Extra room in the leg shape and vents allow maximum mobility and airflow while training.
• Secure waistband – Thick waist stays put without rolling or digging in for comfort while on the move.

You can confidently wear these pants to the gym, yoga studio, while running errands, for walking the dog…just about any activity! They provide comfort with performance to keep up with your busy schedule.

Zella Wide Leg Fabric and Materials

Let’s talk about what these popular pants are made from and why the fabric stands out. Zella exclusively uses technical, synthetic fabrics blended with spandex for stretch.

Most Zella wide leg pants consist of:

• 88% polyester – Provides the quick-drying, moisture wicking properties. Lightweight and smooth.
• 12% spandex – Allows 4-way stretch and recovery. No bagging out.

This blend achieves the ideal balance of stretch, breathability, and durability that makes Zella leggings and pants so unique. They’ve perfected the fabric to perform during workouts but also be soft and comfortable enough for all day wear.

Some styles contain a higher spandex percentage for even more stretch, like their “Live In” leggings with 19% spandex. But the majority contain 12% which provides moderate stretch and support.

Styling Zella Wide Legs for Casual Wear

A major benefit of wide leg pants is their versatility! The roomier cut lends itself perfectly to both dressy and casual looks. Here are some of my top tips for wearing Zella wide legs for day-to-day outfits:

• Pair with sneakers and a relaxed tee for weekend errands or a casual coffee date. Add an oversized denim jacket when it’s chilly.
• Dress them up with heeled booties and a silky cami for date night drinks. Throw on a moto jacket for a bit of edge.
• For winter, try tall boots, a fitted turtleneck sweater, and long coat for a cozy yet put-together vibe.
• Keep it simple with just a tank bodysuit and sandals for warm weather. Add a crossbody bag as an accessory.
• Cuff the leg once or twice if you want to show off a cute pair of flats or fun socks.
• The tapered leg shape layers well under longer cardigans, blazers, and dusters.

I love having a few solid color pairs on hand for versatile styling. They can be dressed up or down so easily!

Available Colors

Zella releases new wide leg pant styles each season in fresh colors and prints. Here are some of the most popular color options currently available:

• Core neutrals – Black, navy, grey, olive, khaki/tan
• Bold solids – Dark red, purple, teal, bright blue, marigold yellow
• Pretty pastels – Blush pink, mint, periwinkle blue
• Fun prints – Floral, snakeskin, camo, tie-dye, swirl patterns
• Seasonal colors – Pumpkin spice, evergreen

Neutral solids get the most wear for me personally. But I’ll pick up patterned pairs here and there when I want to change things up! They often sell out quickly since the prints are so unique.

Zella is great about releasing pants in both dark neutral and lighter spring/summer shades. Check the newest arrivals for upcoming colors and prints coming soon!

How Much Do Zella Wide Leg Pants Cost?

As a Nordstrom brand, Zella sits at a similar price point to other department store activewear. The quality and performance fabric does come at a price.

Here is the typical price range for Zella wide leg pants:

• MSRP: $69 – $89
• Sale price: $49 – $69

This is on par with premium workout brands like Athleta and Lululemon. For the level of comfort and versatility these provide, I find the price justifiable, especially when on sale.

Occasionally you can find select colors marked down online or in the Nordstrom sale section. Zella will sometimes offer sitewide discounts around the holidays as well. Sign up for email notifications to catch these limited sales when you can!

Caring for Your Zella Wide Legs

Like most athletic apparel, Zella pants require a bit of care to maintain their technical features and fine shape over time. Here are my top tips for keeping them looking and performing like new:

• Wash cold, gentle cycle – Hot water can damage the stretch fibers. Use cold water to preserve the shape and wicking ability.
• No bleach – Bleach also degrades the performance fabric over time. Always opt for a non-bleach detergent.
• Hang or lay flat to dry – Putting Zella pants in the dryer can lead to shrinking. Always line or hang dry instead.
• Avoid fabric softeners – They can diminish moisture wicking properties. Use either no softener or one specially formulated for synthetics.
• Shake pills – If small pills develop, use a fabric shaver gently to remove. Try to avoid pulling or snagging.

Follow these care tips and your Zella wide legs should hold up beautifully for many wears! Proper laundering maintains both the look and feel.

Zella Wide Leg Pant Reviews

Wondering what real customers have to say? Check out these glowing reviews of the Zella wide leg pants!

Jessica wrote:

“These are my new favorite pants for both lounge and everyday wear. The fabric feels buttery soft and allows for easy movement. They instantly slimmed my hips and tummy without being too tight. More flattering than jeans or joggers! Love the high waist too. Thinking of buying another pair in black!”

Brooke shared:

“I was pleasantly surprised by the quality and fit of these Zella pants. They fit my tall frame perfectly at 5’10” and are so flattering around the booty. I constantly get compliments when I wear them! They feel like leggings thanks to the stretchy fabric but look a bit more polished and put together. Planning to get more colors for winter.”

Lindsay raved:

Such a perfect casual pant for running around with my toddler and going to mom’s groups. They look cute enough to wear to preschool drop-off but are totally comfy and practical on the playground. The fabric is so soft yet durable at the same time. And the silhouette is modern and chic without being overly tight. Love these!”

Based on the reviews, it’s clear these have become a staple pant for many women! They seem to strike the ideal balance of comfort, style, and versatility.

How Zella Compares to Other Brands

Zella wide legs have certainly become popular, but how do they stack up against the competition? Here’s a brief comparison to other brands:

• Lululemon: More expensive, similar technical fabric, slimmer cut leg, bigger logo detail
• Athleta: More affordable, more trendy prints/colors, curvier leg shape
• Alo: Comparable pricing, lighter fabrics, less size inclusivity
• Vuori: Bigger size range, shorter inseams, fewer prints or patterns

While other brands offer a similar athletic pant, I find Zella to be the best balance of quality, style, fit and price. They’ve really perfected the fabrication and design. The flattering silhouette stands out from the crowd.

Are Zella Wide Legs High-Waisted?

High-rise waistbands have made a huge comeback in recent years! For those wondering, Zella’s wide leg pants do sit at your natural waist so they are a true mid- to high-rise style.

The thick waistband hits just under your belly button for coverage without coming all the way up to your ribcage or feeling constricting. For most women, it will sit between 9-11 inches high.

I love the high waist for tucking in tops or bodysuits seamlessly. It also streamlines your shape compared to a lower rise. The stretchy waistband lies smooth and flat for a flattering effect.

Zella Return Policy

One of the benefits of purchasing through Nordstrom is their famously liberal return policy. Zella pants can be returned in store or by mail up to 90 days from the original order date.

Items must be unwashed with tags attached. Return shipping is free. Once received, you will get a full refund in the original tender – back on your credit card, etc.

This return window makes it easy to try the pants at home and exchange sizing if needed. You can order multiple sizes to compare and return what doesn’t work.

Finding Discounts on Zella Pants

Zella pants are an investment, but deals and discounts can make them more affordable! Here are some tips for saving money on Zella wide legs:

• Check the Sale section at Nordstrom and Zella.com for marked down colors
• Sign up for email lists to receive notice of sitewide sales and promo codes
• Look for new seasonal colors being marked down at end of season
• Shop Nordstrom Rack for discounted pairs in limited sizes
• Use Ebates when ordering online to earn cash back on purchases
• Ask for Zella gift cards on your birthday or holidays to use on pants

With some strategizing, you can often score at least 20-30% off retail pricing. Catching a good sale makes these comfortable pants more budget-friendly.

Choosing Your Ideal Size

Finding your perfect Zella pant size can sometimes require trying a few pairs to get it just right. Here are my top tips for choosing your size:

• Consult the size chart and measure your waist + hips
• Order your typical size based on other clothes that fit well
• Consider sizing down if between sizes for a sleeker look
• Stick with regular inseam unless petite or tall heights
• Order both sizes if uncertain and compare the fit at home
• Some styles run larger; read reviews to check
• Expect some stretch when worn thanks to spandex
• The waistband should fit snugly without pinching

Taking your measurements first is key for accuracy! But the stretch fabric does allow for a flexible fit in your normal size range.

Ideal Activities for Zella Wide Legs

Let’s recap some of the top activities Zella’s wide leg pants are perfectly suited for:

• Workouts – The four-way stretch and moisture wicking capabilities make them ideal for both high and low intensity exercise.
• Running errands – The casual style and comfortable fabric is great for everything from quick grocery trips to leisurely window shopping.
• Travel – The wide leg silhouette looks polished enough for the airport or a nice restaurant while the stretchy fabric maintains ease when on the move.
• Lounging – The soft, lightweight feel makes these the ultimate cozy pants for at-home relaxation.
• Day to night transition – Easily go from a daytime look to evening by swapping shoes and accessories. Great for busy schedules.
• Office attire – Depending on your workplace dress code, these can potentially work for casual Friday or in more laidback offices.

Zella wide legs really do it all! Perfect for your ever-changing daily routine.

Catch Zella Wide Legs on Sale

If you’re hoping to save a few bucks, here’s the scoop on catching Zella pants on sale:

• New colors tend to get marked down at the end of the season around fall and spring.
• Cyber week and Black Friday sales often include discounts storewide. Sign up for newsletters for all sale alerts.
• The bi-annual Nordstrom Anniversary Sale has preview pricing on new styles and patterns.
• Check Zella and Nordstrom’s sale sections regularly for newly added markdowns.
• Popular core color ways like black and navy will hit sale less frequently than seasonal shades. Act quick if you spot a deal!
• Retailers like TJMaxx will occasionally carry past season Zella at steep discounts but selection varies.

With some persistence, you can usually save at least 20% off list pricing. Set sale alerts and shop early before your size sells out!

Travel-Friendly Features

If you’re frequently hopping on planes or road tripping, the travel-ready features of Zella wide legs include:

• Stretch fabric maintains comfort in cramped spaces
• Waistband won’t pinch or dig in at waist when seated
• Lightweight and packs flat without wrinkling
• Easy to style for quick changes on the go
• Moisture wicking material stays cool in warm climates
• Pairs well with flats, sneakers, boots for varied destinations
• High waist and straight leg are universally flattering silhouettes

I loved wearing these on my last long flight. They were the perfect combination of stylish and practical while spending hours in transit. The comfy fabric and versatile style makes them ideal for globe trotters and car riders alike.

Washing Instructions

Caring for technical athletic fabrics properly is key for longevity. Here’s exactly how to wash Zella wide leg pants:

• Turn pants inside out before washing to protect fabric
• Use cold water on a gentle cycle setting
• Wash dark colors separately from light colors
• Use a mild detergent without bleach, softeners, or additives
• Don’t overstuff the washing machine
• Avoid high heat drying; lay flat or line dry instead
• For stains pretreat with a gentle cleaner made for synthetic fabrics
• Use a fabric shaver to gently remove any pilling
• Wash before first wear and after each wear to prevent odors

Following these instructions removes sweat and odor without damaging the performance fabric. Your Zella pants will look and feel great for many washes to come!

Make Zella Wide Legs Your New Go-To Pant

After reading this complete buying guide, I hope you’re ready to make Zella’s wide leg pant your newest wardrobe staple! Their flattering silhouette, performance features, and versatility for any occasion makes them a wise investment. Just be sure to follow the fit, sizing, and care instructions for the best experience. With proper care, you’ll enjoy these pants for seasons to come. Happy shopping!