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Writer's pictureTom Goedhart

Essential Tips for Altering Your Dress Pants

When we talk about trousers, we're focusing on dress pants, also known as fabric trousers. Unlike jeans or chinos, which can have a relaxed fit, dress pants require a precise fit that flatters your body shape. This necessity stems from their formal nature, as they’re typically paired with a tucked-in shirt or incorporated into a suit.

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There are several details about dress pants that many overlook, often dismissing them as minor. However, these small details can be the difference between pants that are too long, too short, too wide, or too tight.

If you've purchased ready-made dress pants, it's likely that you’ll need to visit a tailor for adjustments to ensure they align with your preferences. In this article, I'll share crucial insights regarding the details of dress pants. By the end, you'll feel empowered to take your trousers to a tailor and confidently communicate your needs. 😄

Pleated vs. Flat-Front Pants

You might be wondering which of these two styles is better. Ultimately, the answer hinges on your personal preferences and the look you wish to achieve.

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Some people dismiss pleated pants as outdated, but that perception is subjective. 😄 Pleats offer additional room for movement, enhancing comfort. Most importantly, they create the illusion of longer legs, making them a fantastic choice for shorter gentlemen.

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Flat-front pants are extremely popular and can be worn by anyone. Regardless of your choice, fit should always take precedence! Currently, slim-fit styles are considered the new standard in men’s fashion, so keep this in mind when selecting your trousers. If the legs are too wide, request the tailor to narrow them down to about 18 cm, and you'll be on the right track. 😉

Plain-Hemmed vs. Cuffed Pants

Open any man’s wardrobe, and you’ll likely find plain-hemmed trousers with smooth, unembellished leg openings. Plain-hemmed trousers without pleats are a safe and widely-accepted choice.

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Cuffed pants feature a hem that is turned up and stitched in place. This style is particularly favored by taller individuals as it adds visual weight to the legs. Cuffed pants with pleats also lend a touch of sophistication to your everyday attire!

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The latest trend in cuffed pants includes slightly longer crotch lengths and hems that sit higher, allowing for a glimpse of your ankles when seated.

Pant Length (Break)

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"Break" refers to the crease that forms at the hem of the pants where they touch your shoes while standing. Pants with no break, featuring hems that are either cuffed or cropped just above the shoes, are increasingly popular. This style offers a casual vibe, whereas slight creases are better suited for a formal office look.

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Choose your pant length based on personal preference, but remember: the hem should never cover the entire shoe or drape over the heel. The ideal length for dress pants is when the hem lightly touches the top of your shoes when standing straight.


By keeping these tips in mind, you'll ensure that your dress pants fit impeccably and elevate your overall style.

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