Invented for the British military, chinos are now a popular pair of city pants, with distinct characteristics that define their history and style. Discover chinos, an iconic pair of pants that has become a staple in men's wardrobes and that you probably own without really knowing them.
From military use to everyday clothing
Originally beige, sand or caramel in color, chinos were created in India in the mid-19th century to dress British colonial troops.
The color, reminiscent of dust, was chosen to make the soldiers more discreet.
Chinos then became popular throughout the British Empire, becoming the official army uniform in 1884. The Americans adopted them during the Second World War, and at the end of the war, the clearance of khaki canvas encouraged the production of chinos in this shade, whose popularity also spread to Europe.
Very quickly, in the United States, demobilized soldiers democratized the wearing of chinos in universities. Paired with loafers or white tennis shoes, chinos quickly became a symbol of the relaxation of dress codes in the 1950s. Worn massively throughout the world, chinos are today an everyday garment whose origins are no longer suspected.
While the Anglo-Saxons most often call it "khaki" ("dust" in Hindi), the precise origins of the French name are not known. It probably comes from the fact that the first American soldiers to wear chinos bought their clothes from Chinese tailors in the Philippines.
Cotton pants, ideal for a casual look
In an easily coordinated and versatile color, chinos, very easy to wear, have become an essential part of the men's wardrobe.
Unlike other city pants, chinos are made exclusively from cotton and made from gabardine. Their relatively heavy weight guarantees a perfect fit. In addition, the slanted side pockets make them a little more dressy than classic pants. Whether straight or slim-fitting, chinos can be worn every day.
The art of wearing chinos
With or without a center pleat? That is the question. While these pants are sometimes depicted with a center pleat, it gives the garment a more formal look. For a casual look, chinos without a center pleat will instantly make the outfit more casual.
Often worn with a jacket, chinos can also be paired with a blazer for a timeless, casual-chic touch.
For a more “workwear” touch, simply wear the chinos with a shirt.
Today, chinos are no longer limited to beige or khaki shades, but are venturing into less common colors such as electric blue, red and even orange.
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