What Are Chinos? A Brief History.
Chinos have been a beloved staple of men’s fashion for well over a century. But where and when did they exactly originate? Well the first historical records of chinos being worn was in the 19th century by British and French soldiers stationed around the world in hot climates. Why were they specifically being worn in hotter climate areas? Because chinos are made with a twill fabric, they were the perfect combination of durable enough for the rigors of military life, yet lightweight enough to keep the soldiers cool and comfortable. The cotton twill fabric was the perfect balance of toughness, breathability and style.
And over time, the popularity of chinos continued to spread and gain traction with the military and soldiers in other countries as well. They were favored by American soldiers in the Spanish-American War due to their practicality and versatility, but it wasn’t really until American GI of World War II later brought the style back home that chino’s popularity became more mainstream. Throughout the past several decades though, chinos have become a popular choice among men for both casual and dressy occasions due to their classic yet relaxed look and feel.
Today, chinos are a staple in men’s fashion, with a timeless look that can easily be dressed up or down depending on the rest of your outfit. And their versatility allows them to be worn in both semi-formal and casual settings, making them a must-have in every man’s wardrobe. Plus, chinos come in various colors and styles, making it easy to find a pair that suits your taste and occasion. Whether you’re pairing them with a button-down shirt and dress shoes for a job interview or simply at-shirt and sneakers for a date, chinos are an easy go-to option for creating a polished look. So if you haven’t already jumped on the chino bandwagon, it’s time to add them to your arsenal and see for yourself just how easily they can elevate your style game.
But Why Are They Called “Chinos”?
Most of the cloth that was being used for chinos was made in China so the pants were simply referred to as pantalones chinos in Spanish (which is translated to “Chinese pants” in English). This was shortened though to simply “chinos” in English and the name stuck.
Are Chinos and Khakis the Same Thing?
While many people use the terms chinos and khakis interchangeably, there are subtle differences between the two. Chinos are typically made from a lighter weight cotton twill and have a smoother texture, while khakis are usually made from a heavier weight cotton and have a coarser texture. Additionally, chinos usually come in a wide range of colors, including pastels and brighter hues, while khakis are typically sold in a muted tan or beige. So, while both khakis and chinos are popular options for a classic, timeless look, each offers slightly unique features that set them apart.
What Are The Benefits Of Having Chinos In Your Wardrobe?
Wearing chinos is an incredibly simple way to elevate your wardrobe game without sacrificing comfort. Unlike denim jeans, which are more casual, bulky and stiff, chinos offer a more lightweight, flexible and usually dressier alternative. Chinos are great for casual outings year round, but they can certainly be styled up for dressier events or semi-formal occasions.
Another great benefit of chinos is that they come in a variety of colors, making them a versatile addition to any wardrobe. I’m guilty of wearing navy or brown chinos 80% of the time I go into the office, but it’s nice to mix it up with some other colors for the right occasions. Putting in a pair of green, orange or red chinos every once in a while will really elevate your style.
When Should You Wear Chinos?
As I’ve already said… chinos are incredibly versatile, making them a wardrobe staple for any fashion-forward guy. Heading into the office? Slip on a pair of chinos with dress boots or loafers and a button-up shirt for a polished and put-together look. Date night with your girl? Chinos can be dressed up with a casual blazer or if it’s more casual go with a polo and sneakers.
Another great thing about chinos is you can wear them year round. I especially love wearing them in the fall, winter and spring. They might be a little too hot in most climates during the summer, but a lighter chino in the right setting is a huge style upgrade in the summer over shorts. You will look 10x more mature and sophisticated.
My absolute favorite time of year to wear chinos? IMO, chinos are perfect for the fall season. Chinos will keep you looking stylish and comfortable at pumpkin patches, winery tours, late night fire pits, Sunday morning coffee dates… pumpkin patches coffee dates, chinos will keep you looking stylish and comfortable.
So, when is it appropriate to wear chinos? The answer is simple, just about anytime that isn’t explicitly formal attire.
When NOT to Wear Chinos
Really the only time you should definitely not wear chinos is to more formal events. Some business meetings require more formal or dressy attire. And certainly no chinos to any wedding that calls for formal or black-tie attire or business meetings. Additionally, if it’s hot and humid, I’d probably recommend something with an even lighter material.
Five Easy and Versatile Ways to Incorporate Chinos In Your Rotation
- Drinks with the Guys: Chinos with clean white sneakers and a performance polo
- Presentation at Work: Chinos with boots and a button up and blazer
- Drinks Only Date: Chinos with chukka boots and a sweater
- Business Casual: Chinos with loafers a performance polo and quarter zip
- Fall Date Night: Chinos with a flannel and boots
The Best Chinos For Men in 2024
Target’s Goodfellow & Co. Chinos
Target’s Goodfellow chinos are my personal favorites. They are an incredible value for any guy in need of comfortable and stylish pants that will last a long time with proper care. Made from stretch-cotton twill, Target’s chinos provide amazing breathability and mobility. They come in a variety of colors (navy, gray, black, dapper brown, tan, and green) and also come in slim, straight, and athletic cuts, ensuring anybody should be able to find the perfect fit. These chinos are a must-have for anyone looking to upgrade their wardrobe without breaking the bank. I wear a pair of Target chinos to work at least 2-3 times a week, and one pair stays in great shape for easily a year.
- Material: 98% cotton and 2% spandex.
- Colors available: navy, black, blue, dapper brown, green, tan and thundering gray
- Fits available: slim, straight and athletic
Who do we recommend Target’s Goodfellow chinos for?
These are the perfect fall, spring and winter chinos at tremendous value. The heavier fabric probably isn’t ideal for warmer days where you will be outside. Otherwise, these should be a staple in your wardrobe for work, dates, happy hours…
Gap Modern Khakis
Gap’s Modern Khakis offer a comfortable and stylish option for any casual or business casual outfit. With a cotton content of 98% and lycra at 2%, these pants have the perfect amount of stretch for all-day comfort. And the variety of colors available will suit any look or style. Whether dressing up or down,Gap khakis are a reliable and fashionable choice.
- Material: 98% cotton and 2% lycra
- Colors available: deep blue sea, gray area, deep green, maple sugar, sandstone beige, khaki, soft black, true black, classic navy blue, sable brown, cedar brown, olive green, ash, forest green
- Fits available: skinny, slim, straight and relaxed
Who do we recommend Gap Modern Khakis for?
Men looking for a classic khaki but with more variety of color options in addition to the classic navy and khaki/brown chinos.
Old Navy Built-In Flex Rotation Chinos
Old Navy’s Built-In Flex Rotation Chino Pants for Men are a smart choice for any modern man’s wardrobe. These pants are available in slim, straight and athletic cut, ensuring a comfortable and flattering fit for every body shape. The soft-washed twill fabric feels great against the skin, while the 98% cotton and 2% spandex blend offers just the right amount of stretch for a full range of motion.
- Material: 98% cotton and 2% spandex
- Colors available: brown, navy, gray, stone, black and charcoal
- Fits available: slim, straight and athletic
Who do we recommend Old Navy Built-In Flex Rotation Chinos for?
These are a lighter chino so perfect for spring and summer when you want to look nice outside in warmer weather. Perfect alternative to a pair of shorts when you’re trying to look stylish but stay comfortable when it’s hot and humid.
Huckberry 365 Pants
Huckberry’s 365 Chino pants are a versatile addition if you only have more traditional chinos and khakis in your wardrobe. Made of 98% cotton and 2% spandex, these pants are a great mix of comfortable and durable. Available in straight, slim athletic and relaxed cuts, they come in basic colors such as Earth (brown), Charcoal, Dark Navy, and Khaki. These are great for work, but these really are perfect for men that live a more active lifestyle.
- Material: 98% cotton and 2% spandex
- Fits available: slim, straight, athletic, and relaxed
- Colors available: olive, rust, khaki and navy
Who do we recommend Huckberry 365 Pants for?
These definitely are a premium chino and are perfect for the active guy. Going camping with some friends? These are perfect. Going hiking and then a campfire for date night? These look and feel great by the fire pit.
Bonobos Chino 2.0
When it comes to chinos, Bonobos knows how to deliver. Their stretch washed chinos are a stellar option for anyone seeking a comfortable, stylish look. With tons of color options and five different fit options to choose from, there’s no reason you can’t find a pair that suits your taste. One feature that definitely sets these chinos apart from most other chinos is the combination of 92% cotton and 8% spandex, providing a level of stretch and mobility that you won’t find in many other chinos on the market. In fact, Bonobos’ extra use of more spandex than most other brands ensures that you have the ultimate freedom of movement, without feeling encumbered or constrained.
- Material: 92% cotton and 8% spandex
- Fits available: tailored, slim taper, slim, athletic, straight
- Colors available: every color option you can think of
Who do we recommend Bonobos Chino 2.0 for?
If you are a guy that’s looking for a skinny/slim fit with plenty of stretch, these are a great option. These still have that classic chino look but perform more like a tech pant.
Banana Republic Factory Lived-In Chino
Banana Republic Factory’s Lived-In Chino is made from 97% cotton and 3% spandex, which makes it just stretchy enough to be super comfortable without losing its shape. With several colors available and four different styles to choose from (skinny, slim, athletic, and straight), there is an option for whatever you need. The quality and fit of these pants is outstanding, making them a great investment for any fashion-conscious individual.
- Material: 97% cotton and 3% spandex
- Colors available: camo green, costa coffee, cliff gray, charcoal, acorn, preppy navy
- Fits available: skinny, slim, straight and athletic
Who do we recommend Banana Republic Factory Lived-In Chinos for?
Banana Republic Factory chinos are a great deal when on sale. Just a classic chino that is incredibly comfy. Very durable considering it’s from the BR Factory line which doesn’t always hold up over time.
J Crew Chinos
J Crew chinos used to be my go to chinos and were a staple for my office wardrobe… until I started buying Target’s Goodfellow Chinos. I just couldn’t justify paying a premium paying for J Crew anymore when the quality and product were not anything superior. I really think these are still great chinos, but would wait until these are on sale before buying.
- Material: 99% cotton and 1% elastane
- Colors available: seasoned red, mountain pine, woodland brown, cadet green, jet grey, mushroom, white, khaki, weathered chino, onyx, catskill green, river brown, navy, dusty navy, faded black, black
- Fits available: skinny, slim, straight, classic, athletic tapered and giant
Who do we recommend J Crew Chinos for?
Very preppy option and available in a ton of colors. Great option for the fall since it’s a heavier chino and you can have a little more fun with the warm colors.
Dockers Ultimate Chinos
Dockers definitely makes a very traditional chino. But despite having a more traditional look, they are made with a blend of 95% cotton and 5% lycra so definitely plenty of stretch, these chinos are incredibly comfortable to wear. Not only do they have a classic fit, but also straight and slim options for those who prefer a different look.
- Material:95% cotton and 5% lycra
- Fits available: slim, straight, athletic and classic
- Colors available: new British khaki, steelhead gray, pembroke blue, army olive green, black, dark ginger brown, lucent white
Who do we recommend Dockers Ultimate Chinos for?
Definitely a more classic chino khaki. It is a heavier fabric but still a pretty good stretch.
LL Bean Double L Chinos
If you’re in the market for a classic pair of khaki pants, LL Bean’s double L chinos are a solid choice. Made from 100% cotton, these pants offer a very traditional look but still comfortable fit. Available in five versatile colors, they can easily be dressed up or down for any occasion. The plain front adds a sleek touch to the classic fit, making them a versatile addition to any wardrobe. Whether you’re running errands or headed to the office, LL Bean’s double L chinos offer a timeless style that’s sure to impress.
- Material: 100% cotton
- Colors available: carbon navy, dark khaki, khaki, quarry gray, shale gray
- Fits available: standard, natural, classic
Who do we recommend LL Bean Double L Chinos for?
This is a very classic chino/khaki. Since these are 100% cotton, they are definitely a thicker chino. If you live somewhere it gets pretty cold in the winter, these would be a very stylish option to keep you warm. There’s even a flannel-lined option.
Charles Tyrwhitt Ultimate Non-Iron Chinos
Available in classic, slim, and extra slim fits, the Ultimate Non-Iron Chinos come in a whopping 15 different colors, so you’re sure to find a pair that suits your style. And, with their non-iron finish, they’re easy to care for and always look their best.
- Material: 97% cotton and 3% elastane
- Fits available: extra slim, slim and classic
- Colors available: black, dark gray, navy, olive, stone, tan, green, heather blue, light gray, mocha, wine red, cobalt blue, royal
Who do we recommend Charles Tyrwhitt Ultimate Non-Iron Chinos For?
These are a slightly dressier chino, so they are great for the office. Are they that much dressier to justify the price though…?
Birddogs Stretch Khakis
Birddogs stretch khakis are made from a blend of materials that includes 73% cotton, 24% nylon and 3% spandex. The result is a fabric that has significantly more stretch than pretty much any other chinos on the market. And because these have so much stretch, they are really targeted for men that want a skinny/slim fit but aren’t restrictive. You can even buy these with a built-in underwear liner so you can get the skinny khaki look without the underwear lines showing.
- Material: 73% cotton, 24% nylon and 3% spandex
- Colors available: khaki, navy, dark gray, light gray, charcoal, hunter green, sea blue, black
- Fits available: slim fit
Who do we recommend Birddogs Stretch Khakis for?
Definitely not for guys with bigger thighs as they only sell these in a slim fit. But if you are looking for skinny chinos with plenty of stretch and comfort, these are one of the best options. Great for tailgating at the football game in the fall.
