Chinos are likely to have a negative reputation. Unfortunately, the item is defined by two types of trousers: baggy, khakis worn in your dad’s shoes and a faded polo top tucked into the waistband, or “fuck, yeah red trousers” worn at the bank by men with numerals after the name.
They are either great or they will be thrown out. However, they are the most versatile leg-wear that you can own, seamlessly balancing smart and casual.
You might think chinos only belong in your dad’s closet, but you would be wrong. These ain’t your dad’s chinos – menswear brands recognize a need to give chinos a new lease on life. Chinos are not just for Henley Royal Regatta.
These are the top chinos that you can grab your legs in right now.
REISS
Reiss is the best choice for minimalism with elegance without designer price tags. The Pitch chinos give the trouser an updated look thanks to their cotton-blend fabric and versatile steely color. reiss.com
TED BAKER
Classics are timeless for a reason. Ted Baker’s Genbee silhouette is a timeless take of chino. It emphasizes versatility and comfort, with a slim fit in a noir shade that will last you through four seasons. Sometimes the real thing is better than any imitation. tedbaker.com
PERCIVAL
Percival, Christopher Gove’s brand has been a hit with celebrities and fashion civilians alike. Its humorous voice and energy have made it a popular choice. These tailored chinos are infused with utilitarianism and feature a straight-legged silhouette and a sharp ecru color. percivalclo.com
THOM BROWNE
These panelled tapered trousers by Thom Browne showcase skills to the utmost. They are a modernized, adult take on an everyday outfit. This pair is made from high-quality wool, and has a regular waist. It also features the brand’s Four Stripe motif and horn button. At mrporter.com
THEORY
The twill Raffi chinos from Theory have been a staple of the brand’s wardrobe for good reason. These five-pocket, jet black trousers have a slim fit that runs from hip to ankle. theory.com
POLO RALPH LAUREEN
Polo Ralph Lauren is the grand daddy in preppy style. With its timeless East Coast aesthetic, Polo Ralph Lauren epitomizes classic Ivy League fashion. These chinos have a modernized image of the brand, with deep pleats that reflect the brand’s collegiate style and trad tailoring. Matchesfashion.com
AUTOGRAPH
Autograph, Spencer’s in-house clothing brand, adds a subtle edge to your off duty style with these loose-legged Chinos. This pair, in a rich navy color, is cinched with one pleat to add a smart touch of elegance to seasonal ensembles. marksandspencer.com
ARKET
Not your typical navy chinos. Arket’s chino in corduroy is wintery. The ribbed construction traps light and invites a rich texture for a deeper, more inky color. arket.com
THOM BROWNE
Thom Browne is known for creating tailored separates that are infused with classic American sportswear details. Thom Browne designs a modern men’swear uniform. These straight-leg chinos capture the contemporary vision of the brand. They are cut for the brand’s signature cropped fit. This gives a slight flash of ankle and allows for light flexing of any footwear. Matchesfashion.com
UNIQLO
Uniqlo’s classic chinos are made from 100% pure cotton. This pair of chinos is a regular fit in a warm beige color. uniqlo.com
LORO PIANA
Loro Piana is the name of a brand that makes chinos that are both casual and sophisticated. The brand is a pin-up of sophisticated, sophisticated style. They take no shortcuts when creating quality pieces that will last a lifetime. Although these chinos are partially lined, they can be worn with casual, easy-going ‘fits. However, they still have the elegance of an Italian suit. Mytheresa.com
ABERCROMBIE
The straight-leg chinos by Abercrombie will be a staple in your winter wardrobe. These chinos are made from a stretchy cotton blend that has breathable and moisture-wicking qualities.
CHARLES TYRWHITT
These chinos have a mocha brown hue and a tailored leg. They also feature a touch of British charm. charlestyrwhitt.com
ADIDAS CONSORTIUM X WALES BONNER
Adidas Consortium reimagines brand classics for core Adidas stans. These chinos were created in collaboration with Wales Bonner. They feature a retro-inspired silhouette with a bootcut silhouette, and a belted low waist in celebration of 1970s menswear. At mrporter.com
ASKET
Asket offers versatile and durable pieces that can withstand changing fashion trends. According to Asket, “We don’t design for seasons. We create for forever.” These khaki-green straight-leg chinos have been through a 30-month trial period before they are considered ready for wear. This gives you the assurance that you’re getting a well-designed product. They’re more casual than trousers, but they can be dressed up or down as well. asket.com
ARKET
These Arket chinos, with their traditional beige hues and buttoned waist, are not like the ones in your father’s closet. These chinos are modernized by their wide-leg design and taut, clean lines. They’re perfect for contemporary wardrobes. arket.com
KING AND TUCKFIELD
King & Tuckfield designs are rooted in heritage, referencing a time when timeless styles and long-lasting design were the norm. These vintage-look chinos are made from a light blend of linen and cotton. They have a slim leg and pleated fronts and take inspiration from old-school styles. Take a vacation like Don Draper. Mytheresa.com
COS
When it comes to hometime, fitted chinos can be all fun and games, but suddenly, that flattering waistband starts digging, pulling and grabbing in all the wrong places. Enter, Cos’ drawstring chinos. This pair is made from organic cotton blend, and has a straight leg. Their USP is the drawstring waist, which moves seamlessly alongside you for a personalized, versatile fit. cos.com
GUCCI
Gucci, the Italian fashion house, is often found at the intersection of streetwear-inspired details and a sophisticated, maximalist style. This House’s brand identity is based on hybridization and duality. It shouldn’t surprise that these logo-laden tailored Chinos are finished with an elasticated drawstring waist. This creates a relaxed, laissez-faire vibe. gucci.com
