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Beloved by everyone from streetwear-obsessives to preppy types, sartorial stalwarts to workwear addicts: the chino trouser is a veritable wardrobe hero, a menswear must-have no matter your personal style. Classic and oh-so-versatile, chinos seamlessly bridge the gap between smart and casual. Just like a plain white tee, classic leather loafers or your trusty blue jeans, chinos can be relied on for just about any occasion. Invest in a good pair (or three) and you’ll reach for them time and again for years to come.
Scroll on for everything you need to know about integrating this underrated style saviour into your wardrobe, as well as our pick of the best chinos for men right now.
How to wear chinos
Business casual
As we’ve previously established, business casual is the workplace dress code du jour. If you want to look professional, but not too stuffy, chinos are your best bet. Team them with an Oxford shirt, brogues or derbies and a blazer and you’re all set for a stylish return to the office.
Workwear-inspired
For a contemporary take on a classic workwear look, pair some heavy cotton chinos with a boxy overshirt and white leather trainers. It’s a versatile look that will take you effortlessly from day to night.
Streetwear style
Inject your ensemble with a dash of streetwear-cool: opt for slightly wide-legged chinos and wear them with a hoodie, some retro-inspired sunglasses and high-top trainers.
The best chinos for men in 2021
Edwin 39 Chino
Renowned Japanese denim brand Edwin’s 39 Chinos have garnered cult status among certain in-the-know style circles, and it’s not hard to see why. With their straight cut, slightly baggy silhouette and slightly unconventional colour choices (Curry and Martini Olive get our vote), they’re the perfect addition to an effortlessly low-key weekend look.
Norse Projects Aros Heavy Chinos
We’ve previously waxed lyrical about Norse Projects’ Aros Chinos and we will continue to do so. Crafted from heavyweight broken cotton twill, they’re made to last. The classic silhouette and versatile hues like Oatmeal and Khaki mean they’ll transcend trends and stand the test of time.
Artisan Lab Italian Standard Chinos
Artisan Lab partners with top notch Italian artisans to create the best possible products using the best possible materials. Such is the case with these perfectly cut chinos, which are tailored in a flattering semi-slim cut with a medium-high rise. Wear them with a white Oxford shirt and loafers for a comfortable yet office-appropriate ensemble.
Unrecorded Chinos
Made in Portugal from 100% organic cotton with natural corozo buttons made from tagua nuts, these Unrecorded chinos get major points for sustainability. The slightly tapered cut will lend your outfit just the right amount of sophistication.
Luca Faloni Cortina Cotton Chinos
Italian menswear maestro Luca Faloni makes some of the best chinos for men we’ve come across. Crafted in Northern Italy from premium cotton twill and blended with 3% elastane, they’re super comfortable and made to mould to your body shape from the first wear. There are six neutral hues to choose from.
ISTO. Chinos
Like everything Portuguese label ISTO. creates, these chinos are made to last. Crafted from 340gsm organic cotton, they strike the perfect balance between rigid and soft. Wear them with a worker’s jacket and high top Converse for a fail-safe smart casual look.
ASKET The Chino
ASKET specialises in the production of timeless staples it believes should be part of every wardrobe. These versatile chinos fit that bill perfectly. Made from mid-weight Italian cotton-satin weave with a hint of stretch, they’ll be your ultimate go-to for all-day comfort and ease-of-wear.
SIRPLUS Brushed Cotton Chinos
These organic cotton chinos from London-based menswear label SIRPLUS are as classic as they come. Channel Riviera style and wear them with a breton striped tee and canvas slip-on sneakers.
Neutrale Zip Pocket Chinos
Madrid-based brand Neutrale is all about keeping things simple and effortless, which it has achieved with these zip pocket chinos. They’re as practical as they are stylish. Throw on a plain white tee, your favourite trainers and away you go.
Complete your look with a pair of perfectly pared back minimalist sneakers.
