The modern chino is righting all that its predecessors got wrong.
Over the years chinos have been refined to perfection and companies like Bonobos now boast chinos with four-way stretch and non-iron superpowers. Bonobos and Edwin, a Japanese-based clothing line, both slipped in a secret pocket into their chinos. And the Amsterdam-based Wahts, well they brought their chinos into the 2020s by giving us a nice jogger-like corded waistband.
If saying bye-bye to bunchy pleats and wrinkles isn’t enough for you, and you’re just not sure how to style your chinos, think of them as a replacement to jeans rather than a replacement to slacks. They are a way to step up your game. They can bring your outfit from casual to smart-casual, and, if styled right, all the way to semi-formal.
Wear them cuffed with sneakers and your favorite t-shirt for a street-smart vibe. Pair them with a button-down collared shirt and a belt for a business casual look, or add a blazer and you’re wedding-ready!
Chino Colors
Chinos come in a variety of colors – compared to jeans that are basically just different shades of blue denim, you can get really crazy with chino colors.
What we recommend If you’re just starting out with building your own signature wardrobe, is to stick with neutral colors that are versatile and won’t look out of place in your wardrobe.
For your first pairs of chinos, go for a navy, black or brown color. Navy especially is a very versatile color that you can wear both casually, and more formal as they can replace both jeans or a pair of dress pants depending on the situation.
Editors Pick: Wahts Porter Comfort Chino
For the modern man who pushes the boundaries between work to play these joggers are perhaps the most freeing yet. Made ethically in Portugal they come in Night Blue, Mid Grey, and Matt Black. The updated stretch waistband ensures a true fit. The Porter pant is guaranteed finesse and if you’re only going to pick one pant to replace those forlorn khakis, let it be this one.
Banana Republic: Aiden Slim-Fit Stretch Chino
Ah, yes. The notorious chino in a slim fit, reminiscent of Saturday barbecues and movie nights with your S.O….or just the late nights at work, since it is THAT versatile.
Made with 97% cotton and 3% Spandex (both soft and breathable materials), this is the perfect pair to cop when you’re looking for a more relaxed pair of trousers.
It also fits well through the hip, with a slim leg opening and added stretch for your benefit.
Make your workweek a bit more stylish with this basic piece, which you can layer with other items in your wardrobe (i.e. a dress shirt that comes in a neutral color, or a blazer over a white tee combo).
J.Crew: 484 Slim-fit Stretch Chinos
Another chino that’s a contender in the slim-fit category, made with 99% cotton and 1% elastane, we love how put-together this stretchy chino from J.Crew is.
With a convenient zipper closure and an added stretch for everyday wear, you’ll surely want it in every color possible! Imagine all the styles that you can come up with.
Since it’s cut into a slim fit, it’s ideal for weekend activities that may require more movement and additional legroom.
It’s very comfortable, as it sits below the waist and narrows down along the legs, emphasizing a modern silhouette. We know you want it!
Goodthreads: Athletic Comfort Chino
The athletic fit for the guy who’s looking for more? We’re giving you Goodthreads Men’s Athletic-fit 5-pocket Chino Pants – one of the most versatile and functional pieces that you can don from every workweek up to the weekends.
It is made with 99% cotton and 1% elastane, making it one of the most comfortable pieces you could ever have.
What we love about it is its jean-inspired silhouette, which provides a bridge between your laidback and dressier ensembles.
It also has a roomier cut throughout the hip and thigh, sits at the waist and stretches up nicely below for a better fit.
Bonobos Chinos: Stretch Washed Chino 2.0
Are you looking for a more office-friendly pair of chinos? Are you sick and tired of the usual dress pants, which kinda throw your whole aesthetic down (and possibly suck in terms of comfort)?
Look no further, Bonobos Men’s Stretch Washed Chino Pants will make your office ensemble a million times more bearable!
Made with 98% cotton and 2% Lycra, this pair of pants will surely work just as hard as you in terms of comfort, versatility, and overall appeal.
If you’re a fan of jeans with a more relaxed fit, then this may be the pair of chinos for you. Don’t skimp on the good stuff, kiddo.
Match Men’s: Flat-Front Tapered Chinos
That classic flat front, and an unmistakable slim fit that gives any outfit that much needed “oomph” – you’re looking at Match Men’s Slim Tapered Stretch Casual Pants, which is set to be your next casual wear staple.
It fits well and sits at the waist, with a zip fly and button closure. It even has two side seam pockets and two back welt pockets, which gives you room for your essentials.
It is made with high quality stretch fabric, which makes dress-up such a breeze. These pants are very comfortable, and suitable for daily wear. Yes, you can mix business with pleasure.
Edwin: Loose Chino
If you have a general aversion to basic and just wanna be expressive, Edwin is just right for you. Straight leg and no taper, it hangs in all the right ways. Offered in Rubber, Ebony, and Uniform Green with, of course, a stash pocket. At GBP 100, Edwin is quality you can wear anywhere you just wanna be you.