Just as iconic as jeans, chinos have earned their spot as a wardrobe staple for any guy. I’ve often told my friends that with just one pair of black or navy chinos and another in dark gray, you’re pretty much set for any occasion.
But before we dive deeper, let’s cover the basics: what exactly are chinos?
What Are Chinos?
Chinos are trousers made from cotton twill fabric, known for its dense and sturdy weave. Fun fact - chinos may have originated in the military as part of soldiers’ uniforms during the Spanish-American War.
How Should Chinos Fit?
Fit is everything when it comes to chinos. While they’re incredibly versatile, it’s important to pick the right cut for the occasion, whether you need a formal or casual look.
For a formal setting, go for chinos made from a lighter, thinner fabric compared to typical dress pants. The length should mirror that of dress trousers - just grazing the top of your shoes when standing straight. Want a more laid-back vibe? Roll the cuffs up by about 3-4 cm. Some modern chino designs even come with pleats to add a sophisticated, mature touch.
If you're leaning towards a casual style, focus on comfort. Slim-fit chinos are the go-to for a clean, easy-to-wear look. Straight-leg chinos with the cuffs rolled just above the ankles create an effortlessly cool appearance. In my opinion, the ideal leg opening is around 18-19 cm for a streamlined fit.
Choosing the Right Color
Chinos come in more than just the classic khaki. Let’s break down the main color categories:
Warm Colors
Shades like reds, oranges, and yellows fall under the warm category, giving off summer vibes. If you opt for deeper tones, they work well in autumn and winter too, adding some contrast to your outfits.
While warm-colored chinos might not be the best for office settings, they’re perfect for trying out more adventurous looks. Picture burgundy or mustard chinos paired with a white shirt and a navy blazer - you’ve got yourself a preppy look worthy of a fashion icon.
Cool Colors
Colors like blues, greens, and purples belong to the cool family, and they’re much more suited to formal or office wear. A pair of blue chinos with a gray blazer and white shirt? You’re golden.
Neutral Colors
If you’re just getting started with chinos, stick to neutral colors like navy, black, and gray. These shades are versatile and can be paired with almost anything in your daily wardrobe.
Where to Buy
For those on a budget, you can’t go wrong with Uniqlo and H&M. These brands have mastered the art of making stylish, affordable basics, and their chinos come in a variety of styles and colors, often priced under 1 million VND.
If you’re looking to invest in more premium options, brands like Ralph Lauren, J.Crew, Reiss, Ted Baker, and Brooks Brothers offer excellent chinos in the 3-4 million VND range.
Here in Vietnam, Highway is a great spot to pick up chinos for about 450,000 VND. If you want more color and style variety, Mango Man offers a solid selection with chinos priced around 1.7 million VND. Mango’s durability and modern designs have earned it a reputation in men’s fashion magazines worldwide.
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