Pants are built for purpose. That’s why durability and functionality for the task at hand have always been the approach to creating men’s trousers. The earliest discovery of the purpose-build pant dates back 3000 years ago when relaxed-fitting wool trousers with wide crotches were made for horseback riding.

Trousers have been the perfect military garment to wear under plate amour, providing practicality and warmth ever since the 14th century. It wasn’t until the 1500s where a more fashion-focused pant was designed, with exaggerated colours and features such as ballooning at the thighs and a slim ankle.

Fast-forward to 2021, and the fusion of function and fashion remains true for the modern-day man, with the types of trousers for men providing multi-occasion versatility and resilience. 

Pants for the Modern Man

The types of pants cuts for men have evolved over the years to remain relevant to the times. The omnipresent sporting of timeless pants such as chinos and cargos is no coincidence. Being reinvented with quality bi-stretch materials, stylish pockets, slim cuts, and narrow leg opening make both pants trendy, flexible and breathable - the ultimate combo for those working from home and wanting to transition between casual and business in a breeze.

Men’s Pants Styling Guide

When it comes to styling trousers, particularly in 2021, there are many ways to achieve various looks, from casual and smart casual to business and formal. In this men’s pants style guide, you’ll discover five different types of pants names for guys and how you can dress them up or down depending on the occasion, making them valuable pieces in your wardrobe.

• Chinos

Chinos are classic slim-fit trousers made from cotton twill material and have a solid reputation as the best smart casual pant. A slim, tapered or straight fit with good stretch and a flexible waistband combines classy with cool, making dressing up or down for daily easy.

How to Wear Chinos:

One of the most versatile trousers, the chino pant can be worn in a professional or casual environment. For a polished look, tuck an Oxford shirt, polo, or plain tee in with loafers and a belt if deemed occasion appropriate. For an effortlessly cool get-up, pair your chinos with an untucked shirt and boots or sneakers.

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• Khakis From camouflaging armies into landscapes in the 1800s to blending the working man into the casual business environment of today; the khaki pant has proven its adaptability and durability over the centuries. Today, you can find quality khakis made from comfortable cotton twill material with a flexible waist fit, appropriate for wearing all day, every day. 

How to Wear Khakis:

So long as your slim or skinny fit has good stretch for comfort and double-needle stitching for durability, you’ll enjoy wearing khakis regularly. A formal video conference calls for a stylish Oxford shirt tucked in or left out, and a toned-down look can be achieved with a polo or logo tee, layered with a light sweater for those fresh spring days. Boat shoes, loafers, and sneakers all go great with khakis, suitable for all circumstances.  

Author Bio 

Joan Calabia operates as the Director of Brand Marketing for Dockers® Europe at Levi Strauss & Co. Joan's experience spans the intricacies of marketing operations to creating immersive consumer experiences. He continues to lead the brand direction adapting to the new generation of casual consumers in our era, while maintaining the California cool lifestyle that is heritage to the brand.