We have yet to meet a man who doesn’t have a pair of trousers hanging in his wardrobe. These leg-warmers are so commonplace that we often forget just how remarkable they actually are. Trousers have a long history in Europe. It wasn’t until the end of the Roman era that they were no longer seen as a barbaric piece of clothing. During the Middle Ages, trousers were elevated to the essential garment for men. Women’s trousers, however, didn’t gain societal acceptance until the 1960s. With so many designs, materials, and colours available, choosing the right pair of trousers can be overwhelming. In this article, we’ll give you an overview of the key considerations and the types of trousers available.
Choose the Right Fit
Trousers come in a wide range of shapes and sizes. If you’re unsure of your size, use our handy trousers size guide. It includes tips on how to measure yourself and compare your measurements with sizing from popular brands. Additionally, trousers can be chosen in different fits. The fit determines how much the trousers accentuate the shape of your legs. Slimmer fits often contain elastane (stretch) for added flexibility. Below are the most well-known categories:
Aside from fit, the waist height is also important. A high waist accentuates the waistline and elongates the torso, while a low waist can be more comfortable and give a more casual look. By keeping your body shape in mind, you’ll naturally select trousers that look stylish. The only question that remains is: which type of trousers suits you best? The main categories are:
The pantaloon
A pantaloon is a fancy name for long pants, but often refers to dressy pants or slacks. Therefore, you often see these pants during formal and business occasions. It is named after a famous figure in Italian street theater, Pantalone: A Venetian merchant who wears fancy clothes. Today, it is often part of a men’s suit. With its slim-cut fit, it is the perfect base for a stylish business look or a casual after work look with a shirt with rolled-up sleeves.
The chino
The chino has its origins in the 19th century. It was made for British and French army uniforms. The name refers to the country where the pants originally came from, China. The pants became popular among students after World War II to look neat without having to hoist yourself into a suit. The chino is ideal for the smart casual look. Unsure if jeans are neat enough for the occasion? Then a chino is the ideal solution. You can wear it stylishly with a nice shirt or casual with a polo shirt, T-shirt, or comfortable sweater. In short, a versatile model with endless combinations.
Did you know?
With the increasing “smart-casual” trend in menswear, more and more brands are producing formal trousers. A great example of this is the V12 chino from Vanguard. Made from 58% cotton, 38% nylon, and 4% elastane (stretch), this trouser offers flexibility while maintaining a sophisticated look. You’ll find the V12 in Suitable stores, perfectly suited as a smart trouser. Wear it under a stylish blazer or for special occasions.
The jeans
Our beloved jeans were originally designed by Levi Straus as work pants for prospectors in the 19th century in the United States. After several experiments, he arrived at the right type of cotton, the Serge de Nîmes, better known as denim. Business partner Jacob Davis reinforced the pants with rivets, creating the jeans as we know them today. Despite its popularity, the search for the perfect pair remains a daunting task. Pair a classic pair of dark denim jeans with a trendy shirt for a smarter look or style those tough jeans with nice wash with a T-shirt for a sporty, casual look.
The sweatpants
Whether you’re a regular at the gym or relaxing on the couch, sweatpants are an everyman’s friend. In the 1970s, these pants became popular as leg warmers while working out. Today, it is a trouser that is worn every day. All aspects are designed to give you comfort; from the elastic waistband to the soft sweatpants that give you full freedom of movement. This makes it a favorite of young and old alike. Pair the sweatpants with a trendy hoodie and smooth sneakers for the ultimate laid-back look. Wear the pants with a merino wool sweater for during the cold winter days at home.
The Linen Trousers
Linen trousers offer both style and comfort for the warmer months. Linen is naturally soft and lightweight, making it ideal for hot weather. The fabric is breathable and moisture-wicking, keeping you cool and comfortable even on the hottest days. While it does tend to wrinkle, that’s actually part of its relaxed, elegant charm. Linen trousers can be styled in various ways. Pair them with a T-shirt and trainers for a laid-back look, or with a shirt and loafers for a smarter outfit. Linen works perfectly for a range of styles and occasions.
The Shorts
Shorts have short legs and are typically made from cotton or denim. Most shorts come down to the knee, but there are also versions that are either shorter or longer. They’re ideal for summer outfits and are generally considered casual wear. There still aren’t many business settings or formal occasions where shorts would be appropriate. There are different types of shorts, including chino shorts, cargo shorts, and swim shorts.
As you can see, there is a good pair of pants for every moment. The key is to combine them with the right clothes. So, keep experimenting and you’ll see which style works best for you.
