Chinos vs. Khakis

Chinos vs. Khakis

If you like to keep up with fashion without giving up comfort, chinos and khakis can play an important role in your wardrobe. These chic yet comfortable trousers started as men's fashion but are now worn by men and women alike. Chinos are more form-fitting, have a relatively seamless and dressier look, and are worn in semi-formal settings. Khakis are more casual, with their loose fit, rugged look, and more pronounced pockets.

edit Material and Cut

A man wearing chinos.

Chinos are lighter weight than khakis. They are made of either 100 percent cotton or cotton blended with a stretchy synthetic fiber. The weave is loose. Stitching is usually concealed, just like in dress pants. Chinos rarely require ironing, but if they do, ironing is light.

Khakis tend to be heavier weight. They are always 100 percent cotton and always require proper ironing. Stitching is usually visible.

edit Style

Chinos are considered more like comfortable dress pants. They have few pockets, and even those are hidden. Pockets do not have flaps. The front is flat. Legs are often cut narrow and taper further at the bottom. Chinos come in any colors. Designers often dye them bold colors.

Khakis come in a cargo cut, loose with pockets and loops between the waist and knee. The front may be flat or pleated. The traditional color is khaki, a dusty light-brown or beige color, but designers now make them in earth tones, black and navy.

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