Chinos: a trusty essential in any man’s wardrobe. Trousers so timeless, so low-key, that they transcend trends and seasons. Always a safe bet.
But ‘safe’ doesn’t have to be uninspiring. With great socks, these simple slacks can really sing. Allow us to help you change up your chinos …
Chinos once had a reputation as the preserve of the ‘dressed down Friday’ brigade or a classic dad in the ’90s. However, over the years they have evolved into a timeless essential for any man’s wardrobe. In contrast with tailored trousers, which typically feature a pleat down the leg and have a more formal feel, the chino has a more laid back, everyman vibe. Crafted from cotton, stretch cotton or cotton twill, they are polished and preppy, but still relatively simple and understated. Available in an array of fits – from straight leg to tapered to wide leg – and colours, sitting in the sweet spot between smart and casual, and extremely easy-to-wear, chinos are a must-have.
When it comes to styling your chinos, the world is your oyster, quite frankly. Wear with a simple t-shirt, overshirt, white trainers and block coloured socks for a relaxed but put-together look. For something that is more in the ‘smart’ camp, grab a blazer or sport coat and shirt and pair with patterned socks and suede loafers. Chinos are insanely versatile so experiment – knit polo in summer, merino jumper in autumn, chunky knit grandpa cardigan in winter. See what works.
An easy way to be on trend without being try-hard trendy? White socks. For a grown up take, build a look around warm neutrals, with smart Simply Sartorials in Cream, stone or beige chinos, and brown suede loafers.
Make grey chinos great again. Grey can lack personality, but is an ideal grounding for pops of colour. This season, pick socks in pastel shades – Lavender, Dusty Pink or Sage – and switch up your shoe shade to blue.
Take your casual khaki chinos up a notch with a real burst of brilliance. Something like Aqua or Pink Friday makes a statement with this everyman trouser hero. Add white trainers and you’ve nailed nonchalant, off-duty style.
Don’t be afraid to explore how different colours of socks work with your chinos. The beauty of these trousers is that they are a lovely neutral base for most shades. Feeling bold, go for yellow socks. Want to keep things more subtle and under the radar, navy socks are a favourite for a reason (for something a touch more interesting, try Simply Sartorials in French Blue). Whatever colour makes you click and gives you confidence – go for it.
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