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Chinos are the epitome of an everyman's essential wardrobe item. While traditionally thought of as a smarter alternative to jeans, they’re currently having a moment in the sun, shaking off their preppy overtones and showing us just how valuable and versatile they can be.
Whether you’re searching for something to keep it smart-casual, or you’re looking to expand your wardrobe, there are chinos to fit every style and look. From cotton khakis, to navy skinny-fit chinos and ones made from wool we’ve put together this buying guide to help you identify the best pair for you. Read on to find out our ranking of the top 10 chinos in the UK, available on Amazon, ASOS, eBay and John Lewis!
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Table of Contents
Without further ado, let’s take a look at what to consider when picking up a set of chinos. In this section, we’ll be thinking about the materials, different fits, the advantages and disadvantages of pleats, as well as how bold you want to be with your colour choice.
When investing in a new pair of chinos, you'll need to consider the type of fit for the look you’re going for. There are generally three options when it comes to cut - skinny, slim and straight. So let’s take a look at each one individually.
As the name suggests, these are the narrowest of all fits. Traditionally, this isn’t a common style for this type of apparel. However, the popularity of skinny trousers over recent years has seen companies begin to develop skinny-fit chinos.
The waist is lower on skinny-fit chinos, with a pant leg that tapers from hip to ankle. This style typically suits those with a slim build, although that shouldn’t put you off providing you feel comfortable and confident in a pair.
Speaking of comfort, with skinny chinos you’ll be forgoing a bit of give and movement over style. Unfortunately, this cut can be a bit restrictive.
Loosening up a little, you have the slim fit. These chinos also feature a tapered leg, it's just not as snug as a skinny cut. This keeps the fit of the trousers in line with the shape of the body, without being figure-hugging, or too restrictive.
Generally speaking, these are the top pick for most men, and that isn’t just for chinos, but jeans, joggers and even suit trousers. We think it’s likely to do with the fact that this style seems to say, ‘I’m trying, but not too hard’ and really, what’s cooler than that?
Unlike the other cuts, these chinos don't taper and instead, as you may have already guessed, follow a straight line from the hip to the ankle. Many men prefer this cut because of the additional room offered, which allows for a greater range of movement.
This cut works for both smart-casual and relaxed looks, depending on how you style them. However, be careful not to go too big and baggy. Otherwise, you could end up looking like MC Hammer or risk having to hold onto your belt buckle if you want to move any faster than a walk.
When it comes to the fabric your chinos are made from there is one clear winner - cotton! This material is used because it is soft and comfortable, and can be blended with elastane to create a stretchier and more flexible fit. However, it’s worth remembering that cotton isn't the warmest material.
If you’re looking for a pair that will see you through winter, you could opt for a wool-based chino instead. This fabric is a good choice for the colder months due to its heat-retaining qualities, although they're less common than cotton options. The only downside is that they're not as versatile, seeing as they’ll probably be too hot for warmer weather.
As with most clothes, many chinos are made from various fabric blends. After elastane, polyester is the most common choice. Manufacturers like to use this material as it improves the garment's durability, as well as making them a little cheaper to produce.
Non-pleated, or flat front pants lack this additional functionality. The look is more streamlined, and some would say professional, although this is debatable. What isn't debatable is the fact there is less manoeuvrability, so you’ll have to be prepared for them to fit slightly tighter.
When it comes to chinos, the different colourways available are boundless. The most common choices are neutrals such as beige, navy, black. As well as the slightly more out there, but still relatively safe, greens and olives.
Nevertheless, you might want to take advantage of the myriad of shades available by exploring more brave and bold colourways. From pinks and purples to bright blues, there is a shade for everyone - so long as your comfortable giving them a try.
In our humble opinion, if you’re going to rock some colour then your best bet is to pair them with complementary colours, instead of going for a full monochromatic look.
Levi's may have invented jeans back in the late1800s, but instead of resting on their laurels, they've only gone and created some of the best chinos out there! These understated pants are crafted from rugged cotton, with their traditional five-pocket design and come in four different colours. Although, we especially liked the striking light blue.
Best of all, these chinos boast a brilliantly comfortable fit, which isn't surprising given how many years the company has been producing some of the most accomplished garments in the game.
If you like to look cool, while staying warm, then these straight leg beauties from Reiss are right up there with the most stylish chinos we've ever seen! Each pair is made from a wool and polyester blend, which ensures durability and excellent heat retention.
The trousers come with a casual flap back pocket, as well as slant side pockets and belt loops. But practicalities aside, their aesthetics truly standout. With subtle pleats and a loose tapered shape, if you're willing to splash the cash, they're worth every penny.
What's not to love about this absolute bargain from ASOS? These chinos are made from cotton twill, which is slightly more durable than the average knit, as well as having the additional benefit of not showing up as many stains.
Each pack comes with two colours, black and beige, which are both very easy to work with. They are a super skinny fit, so you'll probably want to avoid wearing them on any long plane journeys or car rides. But as long as you're comfortable, we're sure you'll be able to pull them off!
Few companies have made their mark on the trouser game quite like Dickies. Their 874s were first released in 1967, and since then have become world-renowned thanks to their ability to stand up to all kinds of wear and tear, from the skate park to the construction site. If you're looking for a pair of chinos that is going to last you the next decade or more, Dickies won't let you down!
The 873 is a modern take on the classic design, using the same durable materials. However, these chinos cut away some of the excess bagginess, to create a more streamlined and modern silhouette.
When it comes to sophisticated smart-casual, not many brands hit the nail on the head quite like Hugo Boss. From their crisp white tees to these devilishly attractive David chinos, the brand just has a knack for knowing the perfect cut.
They're made from stretch cotton, providing a wonderful slim-fit, straight cut that's quite possibly the epitome of keeping it chic. As a welcome surprise design feature, the side pockets are zipped, which offers a touch of casual style and a whole lot of convenience!
Crafted from a super-soft and flexible cotton and elastane blend, these lightweight chinos are perfect for summer evening strolls. The fig red colour is sure to add a bit of variety to your wardrobe, yet the muted tone will still pair well with any neutral items you already own.
Easily dressed up or down depending on the occasion, these slim-fit chinos come with two side pockets and two back welt pockets, which are a little classier than a patch pocket. There's even a button and zip fastening.
While they might be a step away from what you would normally pick up, these red and white fine-checkered chinos will work just as well on Sunday afternoon walks as they do for an evening sipping cocktails at your favourite bar.
The pattern provides a little variation on a standard neutral shade, offering something a bit different without having to worry too much about clashing. That said, our advice would still be to avoid purple shirts, comprendere?
These pleated chinos have two big things going for them. A top pick if you prioritise convenience, they're wrinkle-free. So you won't have to worry about mucking about with the iron to keep them looking smart. Additionally, they're an absolute bargain, which is perfect if you're trying to keep the cost down.
The pleats are certainly an acquired taste, but if you value that extra comfort, then you certainly won't be disappointed. They also come in seven different classic colourways, just in case olive isn't your thing.
These skinny-fit chinos from Selected Homme will quickly become your everyday trousers. Made from organic cotton, they're supremely comfortable, while still embracing that Scandinavian minimalist chic.
The dark navy colourway is perfect for both smart and casual looks. However, as they are skinny-fit, you'll have to be prepared to forgo some manoeuvrability in the name of style. But if that's not an issue, then we're sure you'll love these.
Finely toeing the line between suit trousers and chinos, this 100% wool pair of pants is perfect for the confident and stylish bloke who wants to keep things classy, even when he's not at the office.
Cut with a regular straight fit, these wonders will work superbly with a crisp shirt and some oxford shoes. You could even swap the smart shoes for some tidy white trainers if you're looking to keep it casual.
You don't need to be an avid follower of fashion to want to look good! From shackets to shoes, we've ranked the best mens fashion online to help you perfect your fit at the click of a button. Why not take a look at the articles below to find out more?
Whether you're looking for some chinos to dress up or down, if you follow the advice in the buying guide we're certain you'll find the perfect pair - or maybe even two. Here's to giving your well-worn jeans a day off!
Author: Lewis Clark
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