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Men's Chinos Guide

What are chinos?

Chinos are a style of trousers that are made of twill or stretched cotton. Chinos often have a sleeker and more lightweight feel than standard trousers. The most popular chino colour is beige, however there are also some great alternatives such as green or navy chinos.

A versatile trouser option, chinos for men can be dressed up or down to suit any occasion. Start planning some new exciting outfits today by shopping our men's clothing collection.

Choosing the best fit

Chinos are designed in various fits, including:

Loose Fit Chinos

Designed for a more spacious and relaxed look. Looser around the thigh, hip and knee offering a comfier finish. A breathable style that’s great for looking smart in the warmer weather.

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Slim Fit Chinos

Slim fit chinos are slimmer around the leg yet loose at the hip, this style has a figure-hugging appearance. However, it still has some space between the legs and trousers, unlike skinny chinos.

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Skinny Fit Chinos

Skinny chinos have no space between the trouser and the leg, its figure-hugging style has a sleek effect that complements the rest of your outfit.

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Straight Leg Chinos

Straight leg chinos have more space between the trousers and the leg, offering a smarter appearance. Straight Fit chinos are similar to the Loose Fit, yet its shape is more classic for everyday appeal.

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How to wear chinos for work

Wearing chinos for work with a white shirt and a blazer creates an instant professional outfit. If you want to layer up for the colder weather, add a zipped hoodie or lightweight sweater. Any jackets or coats look great with men’s chinos, just avoid any clashing colours. For a more relaxed finish, pair your chinos with a plain cotton t-shirt. Complete the look with a pair of smart shoes or Chelsea boots.

How to wear chinos as casual wear

Dress your chinos down with a plain white t-shirt or even a hoodie. Trainers help your chinos appear more casual as well as being well suited for most casual occasions. Chinos and a sweatshirt is a casual combination that can be passed as smart/casual.

What tops to wear with chinos

If you want to go smart, try a shirt in any colour, as long as it doesn’t clash with the colour of the chinos. Men’s jumpers and sweatshirts also can be worn with a pair of chinos for a more casual aesthetic. A smart blazer or jacket can complete the look.

How to roll chinos

If you feel your trouser legs are a bit too long, feel free to roll up your chinos. However, a rule of thumb is not to roll more than twice - otherwise the roll appears too thick and looks out of place. If you are planning on rolling your chinos, bear in mind what socks you are wearing, ankle socks may be the best option for this. Avoid rolling chinos when you are wearing smart shoes such as Chelsea boots.

How to wear different colour chinos

Beige Chinos

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Navy Chinos

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Green Chinos

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This colour looks great with a white shirt, or dress your outfit down with a simple t-shirt and jumper. Beige also pairs well with darker hues such as black and navy.

Navy and black look great together, keep it coordinated with black shoes, navy chinos and a black polo shirt for a go-to smart outfit. You might want to pair this colour with lighter hues such as white or beige.

If you want to stand out from the crowd this style looks great with a light blue shirt, or keep it neutral with grey and black clothing. If you want a great work outfit, pair this look with a cream, beige or white shirt.

What shoes to wear with chinos

If you are dressing for a formal occasion, chinos look great with smart shoes. Any kind of formal shoes go with this style, whether it is loafers or Chelsea boots.

You can also dress down your chinos and create a casual outfit with a pair of trainers. White trainers look especially great with beige chinos. Bear in mind the colour of your chinos, choose footwear that are a different colour. In case you were wondering, these shoe options don’t apply to men's chino shorts, where here you can keep the footwear more casual with trainers or sandals.

What are khakis?

Khakis are a military-style pair of trousers with a baggy utility design. Khakis often feature a straight leg and a cuffed hem. Some styles of khakis have pleats on the front.

It is important to note that despite the colour hint in the name ‘khakis’, both these and chinos come in a range of colours and hues.

What is the difference between chinos and khakis?

There are some key differences between chinos and khakis such as the following:

- Khakis have a thicker material while chinos are more lightweight

- Khakis usually have a cuffed hem

- Chinos come in a range of different styles and fits

- Khakis often have a looser fit compared to chinos

- Khakis can often cost more due to their thicker material

The benefits of khakis vs chinos

Chinos offer a little more versatility compared to khakis due to their range of styles, fits and colours. From smart workwear to a casual dinner out, chinos are the perfect choice for most occasions.

Khakis are perceived as more casual, however both items can be dressed up or down to match a dress code for an occasion.

What to wear with khakis?

- Khakis and a shirt

- Khakis and a blazer

- Khakis and boots

- A suit with khakis

- Denim jacket with khakis

Are chinos and khakis considered classic?

Both khakis and chinos are consistent seasonal favourites and great all-rounders as workwear trousers. Both styles have been bestsellers for Gap for over 20 years, worn by celebrities and featured in our Gap advertising campaigns for many decades.

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