Just like jeans, chinos were born out of a real practical need. Originally a military uniform, they are a piece that is meant to be strong and durable, as well as comfortable. But how did these pants, worn by soldiers, become a staple of the male wardrobe?
The democratization of chinos: from military to civilian
At the end of the 1940s, when World War II ended, American soldiers returned home wearing their chinos. Thanks to a law of the time, they were allowed to study at universities to resume or begin their studies.
This contributed significantly to the democratization of chinos, making them the centerpiece of the "preppy" style, a fashion trend launched by the wealthy classes of the American East. Paired with loafers or white sneakers, these pants quickly became a symbol of the relaxation of dress codes in the 1950s around the world.
Chinos worn by fashion icons
Then, as is often the case in fashion, cinema, literature and even music took up the trend of these cotton trousers. In the 60s, chinos truly made their mark on fashion history.
These trousers can be found on screen, worn by stars like James Dean and Marlon Brando. At the same time, the leader of the Beat Generation movement, a literary and social movement, Jack Kerouac, wore chinos as the outfit of the new, elegant rebel.
Chinos, Dad's piece
During the 70s, two icons of the men's wardrobe faced off: jeans and chinos. On one side, a more rock spirit, and on the other, a more conventional style that combined casualness with elegance. It was at this time that chinos became discreet in favor of jeans.
Of course, they haven't disappeared from circulation. Chinos are gradually being pushed aside by the new generations who call these pants "dad's piece," a bit old-fashioned. As in fashion everything is an eternal restart, a cycle, chinos have not escaped it and have since regained all their panache and their status as an icon of men's clothing style.
The revival of cotton twill trousers
It was in the 1980s, after being shunned, that chinos made their comeback. Every trader and every business leader must have these pants in their wardrobe.
It was Levi Strauss & Co. that restored chinos to their former glory by creating the Docker's brand. This chino-specializing branch achieved real success with its flagship model, the Alpha Khaki, a tapered-cut trouser (a slim fit at the calves but wider at the thighs). Thanks to this brand, chinos became a staple of the men's wardrobe.
These cotton pants seem like the perfect alternative to jeans or suit pants. They work with most styles, from workwear to smart casual. Their lightweight feel is perfect for summer and/or mid-season wear. We're not going to miss them at LBJ.
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