A CHINO FOR ALL OCCASIONS

A CHINO FOR ALL OCCASIONS

 

Chinos are man’s most practical and versatile bottoms. The casual bottom – like the denim jean – is a style staple. But not all chinos are created equal. With so many types and colours on offer – from both cheap and luxury brands, finding the perfect pair (or two) is tough. But all that is about to get simpler.

 

What’s A Chino?

Chinos can be defined as the combination of a smart trouser made from a more casual, cotton twill. Making their march from mid-century military ware and the days of Steve McQueen, the chinos’ rugged strength is even stronger today. But it’s crafted in slightly different cuts and versatile fabrics, ideal for conquering the urban streets or a precious dress-code party.

Meanwhile, the khaki colour has changed beyond the war zone too, realigning the classic pant with expectations of contemporary men’s fashion. That said, let’s learn how to wear the chino this season.

 

Chinos Fit & Styling

How to fit and style your chinos depends on the occasion and a good understanding of your personal style.

 

More formal occasions require mid-weight cotton with a structure that resembles a suit or separates trouser. Aim for a pair that sit nicely on the hip (no bunching) with the same rise and length in the leg as a trouser, and one with tapering at the ankle. Another way to achieve cinched-look is by rolling the cuff – 1.5 to 2 inches turned-up from the bottom is best.

 

A big trend this season is a slightly wider leg, with the chino being rolled at the ankle to create a tapering at the bottom. It’s a Fifties groove that can’t go wrong.

 

Try Different Colours

Though khaki is the original chino hue, venturing into colour for your next pair is the best idea for the upcoming spring.

 

Soothing shades – from rose and lilac grey to peach and light red – are easy to wear and are big colours for men this season, pushed on by fashion week in June. The lightness and brightness counteract over-the-top navy blazer formalities and channels a bobo aesthetic with a collared shirt or jacket and silk scarf.

 

That said, nothing says ‘classic’ like neutral; navy and grey chinos for both formal and casual events and on-trend marsala or dark red. Otherwise, try something more earthen such as forest green, rocky charcoal or taupe sand so a night-time pant.

What To Wear With Your Chinos

Chinos & A T-Shirt

The most classic of all look and the most easy to achieve the chinos and t-shirt combination is always a winner. Choose any colour chino and match them with a black, white, navy or even striped t-shirt. Paid the look with white sneakers and you have a summer-ready look to go.

 

Chinos & A Shirt

If you need to look a touch dressier then we recommend a casual shirt to wear with your chinos. A linen, button-down to classic chambray shirt will compliment your chinos perfectly. Patterns and stripes are welcome, but be sure not to go overboard with colour. Match blues with other shades of blues to keep things on point.

 

Chinos & A Blazer

If you’re in a hurry and need to go out, then the chinos, t-shirt and blazer is a winning combination. Blue chinos and a black blazer is popular, khaki chinos and a blue / black blazer too. Stick to basic coloured t-shirts, otherwise, a casual shirt will also work nicely. This is a perfect smart casual approved look.

 

Chinos & A Coat

Lastly, if it’s wet then go for a trench coat with your chinos. It’s still very smart and will keep the rain and cold away. Underneath you’ll want some light knitwear and layers to ensure you stay warm. Footwear is best kept to anything warm.

What Shoes To Wear With Chinos

It’s important to know your footwear when it comes to chinos, luckily for you, most shoes match well with these types of pants. Our go-to choice would be a clean white leather sneaker or maybe a canvas Converse All-Star. Leather, chukka or suede boots will work well. Try a brown boot with light khaki chinos or black boots with black chinos. Dress shoes are a little more difficult but ensure your chino length is not too long and a brown leather brogue or loafer (no socks) will work perfectly.

Know Your Chino Types

Style is determined largely by your personal taste and chosen life path. From chain retailers to the luxury moguls, the chino’s quality and appearance is also largely dictated by its maker. Learn who you are and what you need, based off this break down.

 

Final Word

When tackling chinos, try a few different styles and then invest in your preferred type – buying two or three in different colours (and even the same brand if you strike gold).

 

Select a chino that reflects your personal style and don’t be afraid to play around with colour, ensuring at least one neutral pair makes it into your casual bottom repertoire this season.

Check out our Chino range at: https://www.andre.ie/collections/mens-chinos