Chinos for the fashion-conscious man

Looking at the fashion scene today, it’s clear that the once-coveted jeans have really been given some serious competition by the trendy chinos – or simply ‘chinos’, as most people probably call them. Chinos were originally designed as military uniforms, but they have long since moved beyond this type of use. Today, you’ll see men of all ages and from all walks of life wearing them – not just in Europe, but all over the world. Some may place particular emphasis on the trousers’ slightly more formal look, which is why they’re often used as a more informal alternative to suit trousers when a slightly smarter look is called for; however, more and more often you’ll now also find styles with a more casual feel.

The trousers are therefore available in several different styles, with the more formal ones designed with a crease down the front of the legs, whilst the more casual styles of chinos often have a turned-up hem, giving them a more everyday look. A common feature of men’s chinos is that their fit is usually a little loose, but having said that, you can also find styles in a slim fitor even men’s chinos with stretch, although these still have a bit of width in the trouser legs – which is one of the hallmarks of chinos. Of course, we mustn’t forget to mention that you’ll usually also notice that chinos have quite distinctive slanted pockets on either side of the hip line.

What men’s chinos feel like

Chinos differ from suit trousers in that they’re more comfortable to wear. This is because they’re often made from a soft fabric, unlike the often stiff fabric used for suit trousers. Chinos are available in styles made from twill – a slightly thicker cotton fabric woven with a double weave. Twill is sturdy and therefore hard-wearing, yet still has a light feel. This type of trouser is perfect for the slightly warmer months of the year. In some places, you’ll also find chinos in heavier woollen versions, which are absolutely perfect for the slightly colder winter months.

Men’s chinos: from military to preppy style – and now for everyone

The type of trousers we now call chinos date back to the Spanish-American War of 1898. During this conflict, the Americans wore khaki-coloured ‘chinos’, as they called them – a name they presumably gave the trousers because the twill fabric from which they were made at the time originated in China. Soon afterwards, these khaki-coloured trousers were adopted by the US military as part of their official uniform.

However, chinos have not always been known as military trousers. As early as 1906, Levi’s introduced a collection of ‘khakis’ for everyday wear, but it was not until the mid-20th century that they really established themselves in the fashion scene – first as a key element of what is known as the preppy style, and later as something anyone could wear.

Chinos for both formal and casual occasions

Do you prefer a formal or casual style? We’ve mentioned that you can find chinos that fall into either the more formal or the casual category, but in fact you’re not limited in your choice, regardless of whether you opt for one style or another of men’s chinos. You can easily dress up your more casual chinos, just as you can tone down your more formal chinos. Simply choose an item from your wardrobe that’s at the opposite end of the spectrum to your chinos. Pair a relaxed hoodie with a pair of formal chinos to tone down the look and make it more everyday, or add a smart shirt to a pair of casual chinos to jazz it up and make it look more formal.

There are plenty of styling options, and we’re happy to give you a few more ideas: If you style your chinos with a T-shirt, a crew-neck jumper or perhaps a knit, roll up the hems and slip on a pair of flat trainers, you’ll be all set for a day at work, school or a casual evening with friends. If, on the other hand, you style your chinos with a shirt or polo shirt and put on your best polished shoes, you’ll definitely have a smarter look, making you perfectly suited to more formal occasions that call for smart attire.

Men’s chinos in a wide range of colours at teeshoppen.com

At teeshoppen.com, you’ll find a wide range of soft and comfortable chinos. Whether you prefer men’s chinos in a regular fit or would rather have them in a slim fit, we’ve got them here in the shop. The original version of these stylish chinos was available in khaki, so naturally you can also get your hands on a modern take on this style here in the shop. You’ll also find the trousers in many other colours. If you prefer trousers in darker shades, then colours such as navy, black, dark grey, burgundy or dark green will be perfect for you. If you’re after a lighter style, then light grey or khaki will be the obvious choice.

Men’s chinos are the latest fashion trend, and we believe they’re here to stay. They’re a great alternative to men’s jeans, which often make your look the same day in, day out. Set yourself a challenge and try out some stylish chinos today. Start by exploring this page, and don’t forget to check out our range of men’s trousers and jumpers, which are also perfect for upgrading your wardrobe.