The Chino Edit: Our guide to picking the perfect pair
Whether you're looking for a slim-fitting smart pair, or a splash of serious colour — these are the chinos to invest in this season...
Words: Anna Galbraith
A sure staple in the modern man’s wardrobe — whether you’re dressing to impress on a dinner date, trying to strike the right smart-casual note in the office, or just strolling out for a casual coffee, a reliable pair of chinos will always fit the bill handsomely.
And, with spring well and truly upon us (don’t worry, we’ve done a round-up of the best umbrellas on the market, too), there is no better time to embrace an effortlessly cool preppy style, and pull on a pair yourself.
Read on for our shortlist of the best a man can buy today.
Smarten up with slim-fit
We love these slim-fitting trousers for being the perfect, versatile essential that you can wear everyday without worrying if you’re looking sharp enough for a surprise meeting with the boss. Perfect for giving your jeans a day off — they can also be dressed down with a white T-shirt for an easy spring look.
Orlebar Brown Ash Slim-Fit Stretch Chinos
£175
J.Crew 484 Slim-Fit Chino
£89
Polo Ralph Lauren, Stretch Slim Fit Cotton Chino
£119
Loosen up in linen
Whilst the summer sun might seem an eternity away just now, the suggestion of the clement weather is actually just around the corner. With this in mind, it’s time to turn your attention to some lighter pieces to last you through the warmer months.
Summer trousers require lightweight and breathable materials, and linen chinos come in as our top choice for ticking all the right sartorial boxes.
Brunello Cucinelli Navy Slim-Fit Pleated Linen And Cotton-Blend Chinos
£570
Luca Faloni Sand Linen Trousers
£120
Gant Regular Fit Cotton Linen Chinos
£120
Rest up in relaxed-fit
Your weekend uniform is not complete without a pair of these. This fit is roomy through the seat and thighs, with a tapered, slightly cropped ankle and a streamlined front (i.e. no pleats).
Instead of pairing these with smart shoes, the best way to style these pairs is with simple leather sneakers and a I-just-threw-this-on T-shirt.
Orlebar Brown Navy Relaxed Fit Resort Trousers
£185
Spoke Fives In Prussian
£89
Sir Plus Sage Green Worker Chino Trousers
£155
Conquer in colour
We know, even the suggestion of introducing a few brighter numbers to your chino repertoire can seem unbearably uncomfortable — and slightly too 2011 — for many. But, trust us when we say that separating the wheat from the chaff in this saturated market will help take your wardrobe to an admirably exciting level.
Here are some of our favourites.
Spoke Sharps The Smart Ones In Scandi Pink
£95
Incotex Slim-Fit Stretch-Cotton Twill Trousers
£215
Oliver Brown Cotton Drill Trousers in Mid Blue
£89
Looking for more seasonal style inspiration? These are the 5 versatile essentials ever man should own this Spring…
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