'I wear Marks and Spencer's £40 cargo trousers almost weekly' - and they are perfect for the office

'Soft and glamorous. Love these trousers, they are so soft and silky'

For those who are accustomed to lounging in pyjamas, leggings, and vintage band tees, the thought of office dressing can be daunting. Finding the sweet spot between smart-casual attire and a look that's neither too relaxed nor excessively formal often entails a fine balancing act.

Marks and Spencer never fails to deliver versatile essentials that effortlessly transition from the workplace to an evening gathering or even while ticking off tasks on your to-do list. Manchester Evening News reviews writer Shawna Healey shared her go-to pair from the site.

She revealed: "The high street retailer's Cargo Wide Leg Trousers are back for another year and I couldn't be happier. I snagged a pair last winter and have practically worn them at least once a week since then. I own the black pair and am definitely planning to get the light slate and dark green versions for this autumn and winter."

Retailing at £39.50, the much-loved Cargo Wide Leg Trousers come in an impressive range of sizes and leg lengths, all currently available. Shoppers have a selection to choose from, including short/petite, regular, and tall options, with sizes extending from six to 24.

She continued: "The cargo trousers are crafted from made from a lightweight polyester that gives them a breezy feel. I hang them up straight away after drying on a clothes horse and find that they never need ironing, which is always a plus.

"They've been cut in an easy, wide-leg design that lends an air of sophistication to the otherwise edgy style. Plus, they're finished off with a high elasticated waistband that is not only comfortable but are slimming and help me feel confident as a size 16. I keep the pockets as a decorative feature, but you could fill them if you need extra space."

The £39.50 Cargo Wide-Leg Trousers have scored an impressive average of 4.6 out of five stars in customer satisfaction. A pleased buyer commented in a review, "Great-fitting trousers. Nice length. Good quality fabric and good fit."

Another satisfied customer remarked, "Soft and glamorous. Love these trousers, they are so soft and silky. Could be dressed up and dressed down." Yet another customer praised their convenience, noting, "Very comfy, and fit nicely, lovely light material that washes well and hung up whilst wet and no ironing needed. What's not to like? ".

Despite the glowing reviews, not everyone was thrilled, with one person giving the trousers a three-star rating and labelling them 'disappointing'. Their reason: "They're extremely shiny and slippy. The drawstring fixture at the base of the hem looks odd and isn't great if you are wearing them long over boots - they feel a bit trip-inducing. I bought the long, as I'm tall."

The disappointed buyer continued: "The top part isn't quite long enough to fasten around my waist, and as there's no back elastic, or any give at all, they don't fit as there's no way of making them work around the top of your hip. So they're going back unfortunately."

Another satisfied customer couldn't help but sing praises, stating: "These are just the comfiest trousers. The material is light but holds the shape well. Fits true to size. Dress them up or just wear casually. Either way, they look fab."

Marks and Spencer's Jersey Checked Slim Fit Ankle Grazer Trousers are also making a splash. At £17.50, they have attracted 70 reviews, with customers describing them as 'stylish' and 'flattering'. They're definitely worth checking out.

If the £39.50 cargo trousers from Marks and Spencer haven't fully convinced you, other high-street retailers offer their own takes. Next sells 100% Cotton Adjustable-Waist Cargo Trousers for £32 in various hues, while New Look presents its Black High-Waist Cargo Jeans for £34.99.