Chinos - what are they?
And so, chinos are a special type of trousers with a long history and an excellent track record in the form of a large number of different styles. Although there is a certain standard for the type of chinos, each manufacturer of this clothing has its own vision of their shape, so in principle there are no two identical pants from different companies. But as far as their color is concerned, the situation here is somewhat different, and the most popular variations are camouflage, beige and mustard.
If you know what mustard color is, then you must be already a very experienced, accomplished fashionista wearing cargo.
If this is the case, the article is unlikely to be useful to you, because it will describe the advantages, disadvantages and variations of men's trousers in the “for dummies” format. But if you still want to learn something for yourself, perhaps new and interesting, you are welcome. All the advantages of chinos, the reason for their name, and even some interesting details of their biography will be described here. Relax, read thoughtfully and get ready to update your wardrobe soon.
What it is?
In their purest form, these are 100% cotton trousers, tapered at the bottom, with buttons on the fly instead of a clasp, slanted pockets in the front and straight, slit pockets in the back. Although, of course, now you can find different variations of chinos: from mixed fabrics, with a standard front zipper, classic or low rise.
A priori, they were masculine, and only in the last century did women manage to “steal” them into their wardrobe (and, by the way, quite successfully). Chinos first appeared in 1848 among British troops, who at that time were quartered in hot India. Before this, soldiers wore only white - but you yourself understand what happened to such trousers in the heat, and even during drills on the parade ground. So the general ordered them to be dyed with all the means at hand (coffee, curry and mulberry) - this is how he “accidentally” invented khaki, plus he gave the world those chinos as they are known to this day. And, by the way, they owe their name, as you may have guessed, to China - it was from this country that the British military purchased fabrics for their uniforms.
Chinos or chinos
Those who first heard about such clothing ask, men's chinos - what are they? There may be several answers to this question, it all depends on what exactly you want to hear and what specific information interests you. The best option in this case would be to lay everything out in order.
Chinos are not a specific trouser model. This is, in fact, a whole type of clothing that is part of Western culture and even etiquette. This is all thanks to the fact that these trousers are much closer to classics than jeans - in the USA they can be freely worn to almost all official events where there are no strict regulations regarding clothing. Actually, that’s basically what they do there.
True, women do this more often - as usual, they have a lot of variety in types, styles and colors, and some cunning designers even sew shoes specifically for these trousers and sell whole sets at discounts. But this is also part of American culture. This is the way it is, and many people like it.
But what about men? Is it right for them to wear chinos, both everyday and on special occasions where there are no restrictions on what they can wear, but looking good is a must?
The answer is yes.
Distinctive features of men's chinos
Chinos are typical representatives of universal casual and even smart-casual. They are the personification of convenience, comfort and practicality.
The classics of the genre are trousers with a high or medium rise and moderately wide, slightly tapered legs. However, wide straight trousers, tapered and narrow options are also equally popular - each has its own zest.
Chinos are cotton pants. Initially, Chinese twill fabric was used to sew chinos - a lightweight cotton fabric with diagonal weaving. Thanks to this, the trousers were durable and not hot. Modern trends to increase the practicality, durability and elasticity of things allow the use of cotton fabrics with a small addition of synthetics.
The combination of light material and cut is the key to convenience and comfort. The practicality of the item is added by roomy hidden slanted front pockets. The hand lies naturally and comfortably in them. There are vertical back pockets (one or two), often with a small button as a closure.
Today, chinos come in a variety of styles and models , fastened with a practical zipper (low-rise trousers, as a rule) or stylish buttons (medium-rise trousers). Assorted colors: plain options, trousers with contrasting inserts, chinos with original fashionable prints.
Who are chinos suitable for? They are not pushed into boundaries - neither by age, nor by style, nor by build and features of the figure. You can always choose the best option that will be in harmony with your lifestyle, individual preferences and requirements.
Young people go for fashionable models with a tapered silhouette, and middle-aged men can purchase a calm, monochromatic version with a classic, moderately loose silhouette for their basic wardrobe.
The most suitable season for chinos is the warm season, because the trousers are light. However, experiments with fabric (adding wool and synthetics to cotton) made it possible to expand the temperature range until the thaw or the first significant frost.
Here are the main advantages of chinos pants:
- Compatibility. Pants go well with clothes, shoes and accessories of various styles.
- Practicality and durability. Chinos serve for a long time without losing their neat, attractive appearance and require minimal care.
- Multifunctionality. They are appropriate not only for everyday wear, but also in the office, at events and meetings, and are indispensable when traveling and long trips.
- Availability. High-quality branded chinos can be purchased for only 20-30 dollars, and without missing out on seasonal sales in online and offline stores, and even cheaper.
A little history
The fact is that these trousers originate from the times when only men wore trousers and all clothes of a similar format were made only for them, and this is the end of the nineteenth century!
At a time when there was no detailed information about the suffragettes, the world revolution was still gaining momentum, and European countries, without hesitation, fought for their colonies around the world. China acted as the main supplier of cotton for almost the entire world. That's why the trousers have this name - chinos means Chinese in Spanish.
The most plausible story of their origin tells us that it was the Spaniards, who fought with the Americans for a sphere of influence in the Pacific Ocean, who called all clothes made from Chinese cotton with this word. Further, this description migrated only to trousers, sewn in a special way - loose at the top and tapered at the bottom. This type of them was in demand for several reasons and style, oddly enough, was the last of these criteria.
First of all, this need was dictated by saving material and, accordingly, reducing the cost of the product. Secondly, the convenience of wearing trousers by soldiers, for whom at that time it was very important not to get tangled in the folds of their own clothes. You can see it yourself in the photos of those times.
What to wear with chinos
Many years have passed since the time when chinos first came into fashion, and were usually worn together with soldier boots and a rifle. In fact, starting from the fifties of the last century, when women received their rights and the opportunity to dictate their terms to fashion, special outfits began to be selected for chinos, which had already become a fashion trend.
And here the nature of these trousers was fully revealed. They turned out to be so universal that their inventors would literally be surprised how this is possible. Chinos adapt to any possible situation - first of all, they are useful because they can be completely formal and official. All you have to do is put on the right jacket and shirt, and you're ready to go out. In this case, trousers will be the base that will allow you to experiment.
In everyday life you will also have no equal, since versatility here also gives you the opportunity to play carte blanche. A T-shirt of a similar color or shade with some interesting print, a stylish shirt and jewelry on the arms will go perfectly with them. The only limitation may be the choice of belts. In fact, you can only choose from classic ones, made of leather and decorated with small, neat buckles. Large and bulky ones will not work here, since chinos are sophisticated clothing.
Chino shoes
Intuition and experience will tell us how to choose shoes to match these trousers. But, first of all, you need to focus on convenience and the season, since almost all types of boots and shoes go here, and if you want not only to look impressive and stylish, but also like dynamics in motion, then even sneakers will fit here. Don't forget brown shoes!
This is where the very special feature of chinos is expressed - versatility and practicality. But for those who cannot decide what exactly they like in shoes, it is recommended to wear loafers, which will give you an official and sophisticated look, or desserts - boots with high tops. It is advisable that the shoes be suede, since the matte color suits the style of this clothing well.
Also, if you like to look not just good, but even obscenely expensive, there is a special option for you - boat shoes. This is a very interesting type of shoe, which is very popular among young people. But you need to be as careful as possible with them, since their flashy appearance can play a bad joke and make any stylish outfit tasteless.
What to do next?
If you follow all the slightest trends in fashion, then you have definitely wondered whether these trousers need to be rolled up? The answer is yes. But only with the mind. Always remember the rules of how to roll up your pants and how to make it look stylish and beautiful.
You should not try to outplay yourself - if you are short, then you definitely need to refrain from such an idea. Also, if the chinos are in super slim or skinny format, then this simply will not be necessary. However, remember that without twists you are just as irresistible as with them.
How to choose women's chinos
These trousers are well suited for thin girls and for girls with a triangle figure. Only in this case they create appetizing shapes and show thin ankles and ankles. If a girl has full ankles, these types of trousers will not suit her very well. Cropped trousers will draw attention to the bottom even more, making your legs straight and shapeless.
Choose chinos to suit your figure
Select models without folds on the waistband. If you are not tall, choose a high-waisted model that lengthens your legs. Do not roll up your pants if you are short. This maneuver will reduce your height and shorten your legs. For tall people there are no restrictions in selection.
Black or blue - the color of chinos
This is a strong question. Black chinos are a gift from modern fashion and a possible variation on a classic. But they are practically not perceived as the main color. And they practically cannot serve as a basis for creating an image. But as for the long-proven and trouble-free camo green, here you will find an interesting discovery - it is this that makes the trousers so suitable for everything.
This color, along with beige, is the standard color for chinos and many similar-looking and cut trousers that have been relevant for more than fifty years. Therefore, when choosing new clothes for yourself, always pay attention to this.
If you want to be stylish and at the same time feel comfortable, chinos are exactly what you need. This is an ideal option for a walk, a business meeting and a country trip. I hope you make the right choice.
There will be many more articles on the blog of the adventure project “On the Edge” devoted to the style of clothing and the specifics of its choice, so stay with me and don’t go to other sites!
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What types of men's models are there?
Men's models include casual trousers, trousers for work, and trousers for special occasions.
- Casual chinos feature a low waist and visible stitching on the outside. Among men's models there are not only plain trousers, but also with prints. However, it is better to combine them with a plain top. For trips out of town or for travel, dark brown chinos in combination with a T-shirt or light cardigan are suitable.
- If the office has a dress code, this is not a reason to hide chinos in the closet. Trousers made of thicker fabric in calm colors combined with a classic shirt are quite appropriate for work. A strict leather belt and an elegant watch will complement the look and give it solidity.
- Beige, white or dark green chinos with a jacket of harmonious color are a win-win look for special events. A tie would also be appropriate here.
How are they different from slacks?
Unlike slacks, chinos are made from lighter material, while the former are made from heavier fabrics such as wool or corduroy. Slacks are a clear representative of the casual style, chinos are appropriate for any event, suitable for country trips and attending a wedding ceremony. Due to the strength of the material, slacks are more durable and suitable for the cold season, while chinos are recognized as a summer type of clothing, however, they can also be worn in winter.
What to combine with men's chinos?
Men's fashion has long made a leap forward and to maintain a fashionable look, chinos can be combined with any type of clothing. Which top would go with these trousers:
- T-shirt or tank top;
- any shirts;
- light cardigan;
- knitted or knitted pullover;
- classic or casual style jacket;
- Leather Jacket;
- Jean jacket;
- short coat.
