Men’s Fashion: The Essential Khakis
Some items are in the wardrobe of virtually every Western man. That’s just the way the men’s fashion industry works; no matter what pieces get churned out every season, guys by and large wear the same stuff every year. Khaki pants are among those classic and time-transcending pieces. It’s been said – and proven – time and again that a good pair of khakis will keep you looking great from now ‘til 2050.
The Palette
Chinos – the fabric most often used to make the classic style of khaki pants we all know – traditionally come in a rather narrow selection of colors. All of them, however, work in the same beige-brown range, from the fair washed stone tone to the earthier khaki.
Buying exclusively from that limited palette – at least for your first few pairs – gives you two benefits. First is versatility; these neutrals work well for virtually any color, though the contrast between lighter tone chinos and stronger shade shirts always come out nicer. Second is longevity; these styles of pants have been in heavy use in men’s fashion since time immemorial, and should be wearable for many decades to come.
Another great thing about the khaki color palette is that it’s easy to dress up or down as needed. It looks unfussy and cool when worn with a simple tee, and has notes of affected Americana with a check shirt and a modern solid mens ties. For slightly dressier events, the black chino has also emerged as an acceptable option. You can’t go wrong with chinos.
The Fit
While chinos are meant to be the more relaxed and laid-back siblings of the denim jean, you don’t want cascades of cotton running over your legs; that looks sloppy no matter what fabric you’re wearing.
Ideally, your chinos should be trim – draping straight down without bagging, with slight taper at the knee and lower leg for preference – but not leg-hugging. If it shows off the curve of your thighs or the contours of the contents of your pocket, they’re too small. You want to be able to walk around, move, jump, crouch and pocket-stuff your chinos without too much difficulty. They will be, after all, end up as your day-off pants.
Keep a medium to minimal break on your chino pants because you want to maintain a dressier tone to them; pooling fabric on your shoes is something only casual jeans can get away with. If at all, you’re going to need a wee bit of extra fabric for the next standard.
The Fold
A folded hem is practically in the DNA of the khaki pant, and is the quickest way to dress it down without even having to take off your neckties or replace your shirt. If you’re going to learn how to wear chinos right, you first have to learn how to fold them right.
There aren’t any strict rules for folding chinos, but there are certain visual elements that you’ll want to keep. Your folding on both legs don’t have to be exactly identical as long as they’re about the same level. A rough fold will suffice, to be finished off by a slight scrunch; take the rolled fabric and squeeze it in your fist instead of pressing a crease with your fingers. The final effect is an effortlessly laid back yet put-together feel.
Chinos and khakis – by now interchangeable terms in men’s fashion – are legendary for their versatility and staying power. Learn how to wear them, and then invest in a good pair or five.
Other Readings You Might Like:
Outerwear Fall 2011
Summer Suit Styles for Men