In look, chinos usually sit between jeans and formal trousers. That makes them easy to combine with a shirt, polo, jumper or cardigan. In this blog we look at those styling principles. The Issu & Lloyd styles we show alongside are current trousers in similar colours and lines, but they are not sold as chinos.
What are chinos?
You usually recognise classic chinos by a relatively flat fabric, simple pockets and a straight or slightly tapered line. The exact execution differs per brand. Within our current collection, Vincent is not a chino but a slim-fit trouser with a mid-rise. The khaki colour does make it usable in the same kinds of combinations.
Which colour chinos should you choose?
Khaki, beige, navy, olive and grey are common chino colours because they combine easily. You do not have to limit yourself to them, but they are a practical starting point.
| Chino colour | Goes with | Shoes |
|---|---|---|
| Khaki | White shirt, navy polo, light blue shirt | Brown loafers or suede shoes |
| Beige | Navy, dark blue, burgundy, white | Brown or cognac shoes |
| Navy | White, light blue, grey, cream | Brown or black loafers |
| Olive or green | Cream, white, brown | Brown shoes |
| Grey | White, navy, light blue | Black or dark brown shoes |
Five formulas for autumn
- Khaki and white. The khaki Vincent trousers with the white Hamilton shirt give the same calm colour balance often used with chinos. Loafers or smart sneakers both work, depending on the occasion.
- Beige and navy. The beige Harrison is a slim-tapered trouser with a single pleat. With the navy Atticus polo you get a relaxed but clearly smarter combination than with classic chinos.
- Khaki and light blue. Vincent with the open lyocell polo Theodore in light blue. The polo has no buttons, so the line at the neck stays calm. A wool cardigan fits over it when it is cold.
- Beige with a shirt. Harrison with Hamilton and a dark cardigan. The dark cardigan gives contrast and warmth.
- Tone on tone. Vincent with a navy polo and a brown belt. Match socks and shoes in the same brown shade for a polished whole.
Chinos or smart trousers?
Chinos are generally finished more simply and casually than dress trousers. Pleats, a sharp crease or a more structured fabric can make trousers more formal. Harrison is therefore not a one-to-one chino alternative, but rather an option for moments when you want to use the same colours with a smarter look.
Shoes with chinos
Both loafers and sneakers work with chinos. Brown, black, cognac and white each give a different contrast; there is no fixed colour that must go with khaki or beige. If you want to keep the combination calm, choose shoes and socks that do not stand out too strongly against the trousers. Take a look at our loafers if you like.
A week in chinos
- Monday: khaki with a white shirt and loafers.
- Tuesday: beige with a navy polo and a brown belt.
- Wednesday: khaki with a light blue polo and a cardigan.
- Thursday: beige with a shirt and a dark sport coat.
- Friday: khaki with a polo and clean sneakers.
With two pairs of trousers and a few tops you can make several combinations. Air worn clothes in between and wash only when needed.
Caring for chinos
Always follow the care label of the specific trousers. Vincent and Harrison are machine-washable trousers with their own temperature and ironing advice. Only turn them inside out, close buttons or zips and dry them in the indicated way when the product advice says so. You can find more explanation on the care instructions page.
Length and fit
The right length depends on leg shape and shoes. With a narrow or tapered trouser the hem can sit shorter than with a roomier leg. The waist should close comfortably and the fabric should not pull strongly when sitting or walking. A belt does not have to be exactly the same colour as the shoes.
What colour and fabric say
The fabric determines much of the look. A smooth, compact style usually looks smarter than a coarser casual version. In autumn you can combine chinos with a shirt, knit or cardigan. Keep the colour palette limited if you want a calm outfit, but a fixed maximum is not necessary.
You can find more options in the men's shirts and men's polos.
Trouser alternatives from the collection
Vincent: slim-fit mid-rise trousers, khaki
Harrison: tapered pleated trousers, beige
Hamilton: cotton shirt with Italian collar, white
Atticus: striped cotton polo with buttons, navy
Theodore: fine-knit open polo in lyocell, light blue
Frequently asked questions
Which shoes do you wear with chinos?
Loafers, suede shoes and sneakers can all work. Choose mainly based on occasion, weather and the contrast you want.
Can I wear chinos to the office?
Yes, if the dress code at your workplace allows it. A shirt or fine-knit polo makes the combination smarter.
Should chinos be long or short?
That depends on leg shape and shoes. Mainly check that the hem does not drag on the ground and that the trousers hang well in motion.
What if a garment does not fit?
If something does not fit, please check the current terms on our returns page.
