Chinos are as indispensable as your favorite pair of jeans. If you’re just starting, investing in a pair of black or navy and another in dark grey can transform your wardrobe’s versatility.
But first things first - what exactly are chinos?
What Are Chinos?
Chinos are trousers crafted from twill cotton fabric, known for its durability and comfort. Their origins trace back to military uniforms from the Spanish-American War, giving them a rugged yet versatile appeal.
What should the fit of chinos be like?
Fit and silhouette are key factors when it comes to chinos. While they’re versatile and easy to style, it’s important to choose the right cut based on the occasion - whether it’s for school, work, or leisure - essentially balancing between formal and casual looks.
When choosing chinos for a formal look, think of dress trousers as your benchmark, opting for lighter and thinner fabrics. The length should follow the same rule as dress pants - just touching the top of your shoes when standing. For a bit more personality, you can roll the cuffs up about 3-4 cm, adding a touch of comfort while still maintaining a polished appearance.
Modern chinos often feature pleats, either at the front or back, adding a touch of sophistication and refinement to your look.
When it comes to casual chinos, comfort should be your top priority. Slim-fit chinos are a wardrobe staple, pairing effortlessly with just about anything. For a more laid-back vibe, try straight-fit chinos with cuffs rolled slightly above the ankles - they give off a cool, effortless look. In my opinion, the ideal leg opening width is around 18-19 cm for the perfect balance.
Playing with Color
Chinos come in a spectrum of shades to suit any mood or occasion.
Warm Tones
Red, orange, yellow, and their related hues are known as warm tones, often evoking the vibrance of summer. However, with deeper shades, these colors can work wonders in Fall and Winter, adding just the right amount of color to elevate your seasonal outfits.
Brightly colored chinos might not be office-friendly, but they’re perfect for experimenting with bold styling. A pair of burgundy or deep yellow chinos paired with a white shirt and a navy blazer creates a preppy look - a favorite among renowned fashionistas worldwide.
Cool Tones
Shades of blue, green, and purple fall under the cool tone category. Unlike warm tones, cool tones are naturally suited for office wear and more polished styles. For instance, navy chinos pair brilliantly with a gray blazer and a crisp white shirt.
Neutral Tones
If you’re unsure where to start, I’d recommend sticking to neutral tones like navy, black, and gray. You’ll be amazed at how versatile a pair of chinos can be, effortlessly pairing with almost everything in your everyday wardrobe.
Where to Shop
Chinos from Uniqlo and H&M are highly rated in the affordable segment, as both brands have extensive experience in producing basic apparel. Their chinos come in a variety of styles and trendy colors, often priced below 1 million VND.
For more premium options, brands like Ralph Lauren, J.Crew, Reiss, Ted Baker, and Brooks Brothers come to mind, with prices ranging from 3 to 4 million VND.
In Vietnam, chinos are a staple at Highway, priced around 450,000 VND. If you're looking for more options in colors and styles, check out Mango Man stores, where chinos are priced at nearly 1.7 million VND. Mango's chinos are highly recommended by reputable men's fashion magazines worldwide for their durable materials and modern fit.
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