Chinos vs. Trousers: When to Wear What, and Why It Matters

The time has come to realize that a lot of talking occurs even before the first word comes out of your mouth. The border line between “cool” and “sloppy” in nowadays business is very thin. Mistaking assumption about similarity of the chinos and trousers can prevent you from getting a promotion. It becomes clear after understanding the difference. Let us put everything to an end and dress with the intention.

The basic difference between chinos and trousers is the kind of the fabric and the cut. Normally, dress pants are made from the worsted or flannel which is the combination of wool fabric. It is elegant fabric. On the contrary, chinos are made from the cotton twill. It is durable fabric which seems more down-to-earth.

Dress pants symbolize the image of “power player”. You are to put them on in case you need to become the leader and do some deal. In case you go to the boardroom or to the funeral ceremony, dress pants are the only suitable option. It is always possible to combine them with the blazer and oxfords. To tell the truth, wearing khakis at a formal pitch you look quite young and inexperienced.

Chinos will come in handy in “smart casual” circumstances. They will fit perfectly for the Friday business meeting which takes place outside the office premises. Bonobos and Todd Snyder brands are the leaders in making the modern chinos. They can serve as a perfect bridge between the dress suit and the jeans. Bear in mind the importance of the fitting when you buy chinos; baggy chinos make you look young.

The colors play an important role too. Navy and charcoal trousers are must-haves. When choosing the color of the chinos, go for the earth tone such as olive, tan, or slate gray. It is possible to choose the bright colored chinos in case you work in the advertising agency, where chaos and creativity reign supreme. It is also possible to wear slim fit chinos which look as professional as dress pants with the sharp crease.

Wrong choice of chinos can spoil the whole meeting. Putting on heavy wool trousers for the casual lunch with the clients is not acceptable. Wrinkled chinos in the formal interview will create subconscious discomfort and distraction which will hinder your pitch. Your clothes have to reflect your competence and skills, not to hide them.

Take a look at your schedule tomorrow morning. See what the goal of your actions is. If you are going to conquer the world, put on wool. In case you are networking, put on your best chinos.

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