When the word Khaki comes to mind, most people usually fast forward to some episode of Office Space where the main characters are wearing tight fitting, high-water, pleated front, brown cotton pants. This absolutely should not be the case. Khakis or Chinos are not only functional but, when worn properly, can also be quite fashionable.
Before we go any further let’s clear up one thing — Khaki vs. Chino. Khaki is a color that ranges from stone to tan. Chinos are the actual name of the pant. The history behind the word chino is quite interesting. During one of the World Wars, US troops were being sent pants that had been made in and were being shipped from China. There was a misspelling on the box, Chino instead of China and that is how the term was born.
Chinos are a great pant not just for this season’s trendy guy but for any guy. They are versatile and very reasonably priced. For less than $50 Banana Republic has a host of various colors and fits. From a relaxed Dawson (my personal favorite) to a straight fit Gavin.
Chinos should be worn the same as a nice pair of slacks and should have a slight break at the hem. They should never bunch around the ankle and please no high-water fits either.
In the office you can pair the Chino with a range of shirts from the traditional polo to a trendier oxford. This pant goes well with a madras print (see previous blog entry “Not Just for the Beach”) if you are going for an up-tempo casual look.
The final thing that I love about Chinos is that the more you wear them, the softer and more comfortable they get. When washed in warm water and dried on low heat they will become a favorite pant.
So let’s bring on the Khaki Chino!
Fashionably Yours,
Mason
