BlogTypes of Pants for Men to Wear on Any Occasion [August, 2024]
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Pants are perhaps the most versatile piece of clothing in a man’s wardrobe. Whether you need to look sharp for the office or want casual comfort on the weekend, there is a style of pant suited for every occasion. Knowing the different types of pants for men and when to wear them will ensure you always look stylish and put-together.
In this comprehensive 4000+ word guide, we dive deep into the major categories and most popular styles of pants for Indian men. We also share expert tips on choosing the right fit, fabrics, colors and more to build the ultimate pants wardrobe.
Formal Pants for Men
Formal pants are meant for professional settings, special occasions, and any situation with a dress code. They provide a polished, sophisticated look. Formal pants are tailored from high-quality fabrics like wool, linen, cotton twill, tropical wool and polyester blends. The fabric choice affects the drape, breathability, wrinkle resistance, durability and comfort.
Trousers
Trousers are perhaps the most common and versatile type of formal pants for men. They are tailored for a trim, polished silhouette. Trousers come in many styles:
Pleated Front Trousers – The classic business trousers, pleated fronts have folds at the waistband that provide extra room through the seat and thighs. The pleats create a structured look. They come in single-pleat and double-pleat options. Pleated trousers work well for formal business settings and events.
Flat Front Trousers – Flat front trousers have a smooth, tailored appearance in the front with no pleats or folds. This creates a sharper silhouette for a modern look. Flat fronts are gaining popularity in professional settings.
Cuffed Trousers – These trousers are hemmed and tapered with a cuff at the bottom. Cuffing provides a clean finish and can be altered to adjust pants length. Cuffed trousers have a refined, bespoke aesthetic.
Expandable Waistband Trousers – Designed with side elastic panels and a waistband that stretches up to 2 inches, these accommodate weight fluctuations while looking like regular trousers. The expandable waist offers enhanced comfort.
Chalk Stripe Trousers – Chalk stripe trousers are formal pants with a thin stripe pattern. The vertical lined pattern elongates the legs for a slimming effect.
Trousers pair perfectly with button-down shirts, blazers, sports jackets and dress shoes for professional looks. Choose wool trousers in winter and linen or cotton options for warm weather.
Dress Pants
Dress pants are fashioned similar to suit pants but without the matching jacket. They have a creased front, closure fly, belt loops, pockets and tapered legs, creating a polished look. Dress pants differ from trousers in being lighter weight and made from materials like cotton, linen, twill, polyester blends etc. This makes them optimal for warm weather while still looking formal.
Dress pants can be worn to the office or formal events on their own to achieve a sharp, put-together look. Pair them with a button-down shirt or polo along with dress shoes. Dress pants also go well with sports jackets and blazers. Solid navy, black, grey and tan are versatile neutral shades for dress pants.
Suit Pants
Suit pants or trousers are designed specifically to be worn with a matching suit jacket. Together, the tailored jacket and pants create a polished, coordinated formal outfit. Suit pants are sharply cut and fitted. They are fashioned from heavier suiting fabrics like wool, wool blends, and linen.
The cloth used to make suit pants matches the jacket fabric precisely in color, pattern, and texture. This differs from odd trousers or dress pants that simply complement a sports jacket or blazer rather than matching exactly. Suit pants usually have slash pockets, belt loops, and side vents. Pleated fronts remain popular, but flat fronts are also gaining prominence.
Investing in a navy or charcoal suit is a wise choice for the versatile matching pants. Pair suit pants with a dress shirt, skinny tie and dress shoes for interviews, formal events and weddings.
Chinos
Chinos are more casual cotton, linen or synthetic pants meant for warm weather. They share similarities with trousers like the structured waistband, tapered legs, and straight fit. However, chinos are made from lighter fabrics and typically have no pleats.
Chinos can be dressed up with a tucked-in shirt and sports jacket or worn casually with a polo tee, sneakers and loafers. They straddle the line between trousers and khakis. While office-appropriate, chinos have a laidback vibe that translates effortlessly from day to night. Tan, olive and navy chinos pair well with most tops.
Casual Pants for Men
Casual pants offer a relaxed fit, breathable fabrics and easy styling perfect for daily wear. They are a staple of off-duty and weekend looks. The most popular casual pants for men include:
Jeans
No casual wardrobe is complete without a great pair of jeans. Originally designed as workwear for laborers, jeans have become a versatile fashion essential. They are made from sturdy denim – a cotton twill fabric that wears well over time. The indigo dyeing process and wash give each pair a unique faded finish. From dark washes to light blues, jeans come in a spectrum of shades.
There are many jean fits and cuts to choose from:
Skinny Jeans – Skinny jeans are tight and figure-hugging from the waist to the ankles. They create a slim silhouette that works well for tall, skinny men.
Slim Fit Jeans – Slim fits are less skinny and tapered moderately from hip to ankle to contour the body without clinging. They suit men who are tall or have an athletic build.
Straight Leg Jeans – Straight leg jeans have an even width from hip to ankle and sit below the waist. They provide a classic, flattering cut for most body shapes.
Relaxed Fit Jeans – With a loose, baggy fit through the seat and thigh, relaxed fits provide comfort for muscular or bigger men. The legs can be tapered or straight.
Bootcut Jeans – Bootcut jeans are fitted in the thighs with a subtle flare around the knees down towards the hems. The flared leg allows fitting over boots.
Carpenter Jeans – Inspired by workwear, carpenter jeans feature tool pockets and loops originally meant for hanging hammers. They have a wide leg and sit at the natural waist.
Jeans are extremely versatile – pair them with t-shirts, shirts, hoodies, sweaters, jackets, and more. Dark indigo denim works for nights out while faded blue jeans are perfect for casual daytime looks.
Chinos
The chinos mentioned earlier as formal pants work just as well for casual settings. Made from lightweight cotton, linen or a cotton-synthetic blend, chinos are comfortable in warm weather while still looking polished. They come in a variety of colors like navy, olive, grey and khaki.
Chinos pair well with t-shirts, polos, casual button-downs and sweaters. Dress up cotton chinos with loafers and a blazer or wear them with sneakers for a laidback look. By changing your shirt, shoes and adding accessories, chinos easily go from casual to smart casual style.
Cargo Pants
Cargo pants are casual pants designed with large snap or button-flap pockets on the sides of the thighs and at the knees. This cargo pocket feature provides utility and storage space, inspired by military and workwear uniforms.
While the extra pockets add bulk, they also provide visual interest and dimension. Cargo pants work perfectly for casual settings, outdoor adventures, travel and errands. Pair them with sturdy boots or sneakers along with a t-shirt or casual shirt. Black, brown and olive green cargo pants offer versatility.
Joggers
Joggers have emerged as one of the most popular casual and athletic pants for men. They are defined by their elastic waistband, drawstring closure and tapered cuffed ankles. The fabric is soft and lightweight with a sweatpant feel. However, many joggers are made from breathable cotton-polyester to prevent overheating.
Joggers are quite flexible – they can be worn to the gym, for running errands, lounging at home or even paired with a blazer for smarter casual looks. Go for neutral joggers in black, grey, navy, and olive that pair with everything.
Canvas/Cotton Pants
These casual pants are fashioned from durable, breathable fabrics like cotton twill or cotton-poly canvas. The result is a laidback pair ideal for warm climates and everyday wear. Canvas pants share styling similarities with chinos – pockets, button closure, and belt loops. However, they have a relaxed fit through the legs designed for comfort. Khaki, olive, grey and tan are good color choices. Dress canvas pants up or down easily.
Duck Pants
Duck pants have a loose, baggy fit that provides air circulation for hot and humid weather. They are made from 100% cotton duck fabric known for its breathability. Duck pants sit at the waist and typically have inset pockets and a button or zip fly. Keep them casual with sneakers or flip flops. Khaki and off-white are popular duck pant colors.
Specialty and Active Pants
Beyond formal and casual styles, there are pants specially designed for certain professions, environments and physical activities. Having the right type of pant makes all the difference for specific settings.
Khaki Pants
Khaki is a lightweight, breathable cotton twill fabric. Khaki pants made from this fabric were originally associated with military uniforms but are now a mainstream wardrobe staple. The quintessential khaki colour is a light brownish-tan shade, but khaki pants come in a variety of neutral tones like olive, navy, black, grey, cream etc.
Khaki pants have a relaxed fit that falls between dress pants and casual pants in formality. They can be dressed up with a tucked-in dress shirt and loafers or worn casually with a polo tee. Khaki is a staple fabric for smart casual style.
Activewear Pants
Activewear and athletic pants are specially designed for training, sports and an active lifestyle. They are made with moisture-wicking technical fabrics that allow ventilation, stretch, and ease of movement. The fabrics (polyester, spandex, nylon blends) also wick sweat away from the body during intense exercise.
Running Tights – Running tights fit like a second skin and prevent chafing during long-distance runs. They are usually made of a spandex-polyester blend.
Training Pants – Training pants allow free movement during workouts at the gym or while doing yoga, cardio and other exercises at home. Look for zip pockets to hold small essentials.
Track Pants – Track pants are loose, tapered athletic pants that give a comfortable fit for sports and athleisure wear. Side snaps allow customization of leg width.
Compression Pants – Compression pants tightly hug muscles to improve blood circulation and support active recovery after taxing training.
Yoga Pants
Yoga pants are stretchy, form-fitting pants designed specifically for yoga and pilates. The soft, breathable fabrics like cotton, lycra, and cotton-spandex blends provide maximum comfort and free range of motion when moving between asanas. Their elastic waistband and tight fit also prevents distraction and enables focus. Yoga pants work well for home workouts and everyday loungewear too.
Jodhpurs/Breeches
Jodhpurs or breeches are snug-fitting pants worn by horse riders. The ankle-length design allows the pants to be tucked into riding boots to avoid fabric bunching. Jodhpurs are made from cotton, nylon, leather, or polyester. Knee-patch jodhpurs are particularly stylish.
Sweatpants
Sweatpants are the ultimate loungewear comfort pants. They have an elastic waist and loose fit through the hips and legs for optimal ease. Many sweatpants also feature wide cuffs at the hem for a sporty look. While suited for lazy days at home, sweatpants are too casual for going out. Choose soft cotton blends and jersey knits for enhanced comfort.
Swim Trunks
Swim trunks are designed specifically for swimming, with a shorter 5 to 7 inch inseam. The lightweight polyester or nylon fabric is quick-drying. The inner mesh lining adds support without weighing it down when wet. Swim trunks come in colorful prints and solid shades. Look for key features like secure pockets and anti-shrink technology.
Leather Pants
Leather pants have an edgy, rockstar appeal. They are cut from leather materials like lambskin, cowhide, faux leather etc. While eye-catching, leather pants are difficult to wear regularly. Save them for special occasions like parties, music events or a bold night out. Style with a graphic tee, leather jacket and boots.
Comparison of the Types of Pants for Men
| Pant Type | Key Features | Best Uses |
|---|---|---|
| Trousers | – Creased/pleated front – Tapered legs – Wool, linen, polyester fabrics | Professional settings, formal events |
| Chinos | – Flat front – Cotton, linen, synthetic fabrics – Casual feel | Office, smart casual wear, weekends |
| Dress Pants | – Lightweight – Match blazers but not suits – Cotton, linen, polyester | The office, formal day events |
| Suit Pants | – Matches suit jacket – Wool, linen, heavy fabrics – Sharp, tailored fit | Professional meetings, weddings, formal events |
| Jeans | – Tough denim fabric – Relaxed through seat and thigh – Variety of washes | Casual everyday wear, weekends, evenings out |
| Joggers | – Drawstring waistband – Elastic cuffs – Knit cotton-polyester blend | Loungewear, exercise, travel |
| Cargo Pants | – Oversized side pockets – Breathable cotton or synthetic | Outdoor activities, casual everyday wear |
How to Choose the Right Pants
With so many cuts, fabrics and styles of pants available, focus on these factors to choose pants that make you look and feel your best:
Consider the Occasion
- Formal pants like trousers for professional settings; casuals like jeans for everyday wear
- Smart casual chinos and khakis provide an in-between option
Choose a Flattering, Comfortable Fit
- Skinny and slim fits for slender frames; relaxed and loose fits to accommodate larger sizes
- Find pants that contour your body shape without clinging or sagging
Pick Versatile, Neutral Colors
- Stick to blacks, greys, tans, navy and brown for the most wear across seasons
- Add variety with olive, khaki and lighter shades of blue
Mind the Details
- Pleats, cuffs, elbow patches etc. add stylistic flair
- Distressed jeans and pockets create a casual vibe
Consider Breathable Fabrics
- Lightweight cottons, linens and blends for high temperatures
- Wool and polyester suits winter wear
Buy Multiple Lengths
- Have pants professionally hemmed to wear with different shoes – sneakers, boots, dress shoes
How to Wear Different Types of Pants
Mastering how to style pants for both dressy and casual looks is a key skill for men. Follow these tips to pair various pants correctly for different settings:
Office and Professional Wear
- Wool trousers with oxford shirts and blazers make smart business attire
- Chinos with tucked-in dress shirts and loafers are sharper than jeans for work
- Pleated suit pants with a crisp shirt, tie and dress shoes for important meetings
- Cuffed trousers add polish under a sports jacket for professional events
Casual Daytime Wear
- Jeans paired with t-shirts, polos, shirts or light jackets are extremely versatile
- Joggers and sneakers make comfortable weekend errand-running attire
- Cotton canvas pants work for casual daytime activities in warm weather
- Cargo pants complement casual button-downs, hoodies and sweaters
Smart Casual Outfits
- Chinos with tucked-in dress shirts and loafers strike the smart casual balance
- Khaki pants elevate a casual outfit and provide an office-appropriate option
- Blazers and sweaters worn over jeans upgrades them for a sharper style
Night Out Attire
- Dark jeans with a button-down, untucked polo or T-shirt works for most evenings out
- Trousers paired with a dress shirt, or sweater upgrades jeans for dinner dates
- Joggers and sweatpants are too casual – avoid wearing them to dinners or bars
Where to Shop for Pants in India
Take your pick from a wide range of formal, casual and specialty pants from these recommended stores and online shopping sites:
Malls and Multi-Brand Stores
- Shoppers Stop – Large formal and casual collections from Arrow, Louis Philippe, Levi’s, Lee, Spykar and more.
- Marks & Spencer – Quality trousers, chinos, jeans, joggers and cargo pants across budgets.
- Westside – Collection includes jeans, cargo pants, joggers, duck pants, khakis and dress pants.
- Lifestyle – Extensive selection of formal, semi-formal and casual pants from top brands.
- Central – Stocks trousers, chinos, cargos, joggers, etc. from Tom Tailor, Levis, Arrow and other labels
Online Stores
- Myntra – Wide range of pants including jeans, trousers, sweatpants, cargos etc. from popular brands like Roadster, H&M, Puma, WROGN etc.
- Ajio – Shop for chinos, denim, joggers, khakis, dress pants, etc. from brands like Campus Sutra, U.S. Polo Assn., Louis Philippe, and more.
- Jabong – Find both casual and formal pants for men from Spykar, Levi’s, Wrangler, Arrow, and other labels.
- Koovs – Great collection of chinos, denim jeans, joggers, sweatpants, etc. from Koovs private labels as well as third-party brands.
- Amazon Fashion – Reliable selection of trousers, cargo, activewear pants, swim trunks as well as jeans and chinos.
Brand Outlets and Exclusive Brand Stores
- Arrow – For premium dress trousers, suit pants, and chinos from this popular Indian formal wear brand.
- Louis Philippe – The LP outlet carries the brand’s line of high-quality formal and semi-formal pants.
- Levi’s Stores – Shop the iconic brand’s extensive collection of jeans fits, finishes and washes.
- Wrangler Outlets – Find a variety of washes, fits, and designs of denim jeans from this brand.
- Lee Stores – Casual denim jeans in skinny, slim, and relaxed fits from this reputed brand.
- Flying Machine – Shop jeans, joggers, sweatpants, and activewear pants from India’s popular casualwear brand.
- Spykar Outlets – Cool denim, joggers, cargo, and khaki pants are available from this youthful brand.
Multi-Designer Boutiques
- Aza – Stocks trousers, jeans, khakis, and dress pants from Indian and international labels.
- Kimaya – Luxe formal pants and designer jeans available from top national and global brands.
- Aza Fashions – Shop formal, casual, and smart casual pants from Aza’s curated mix of brands.
- Elitify – Designer clothing store carrying upscale dress pants, chinos, denim and other luxe styles.
Bespoke Tailoring
- Raymond Made to Measure – Get trousers, chinos, suits etc. expertly tailored to your measurements.
- Manyavar Custom Studio – Design your own suit pants or have them tailor-made here.
- SS Homme – Bespoke suit pants tailored from fine fabrics based in Mumbai.
- Darveys Tailoring – Book an appointment for custom-made dress pants and formal wear.
FAQs
Q. What kind of pants are for guys?
A. There are many kinds of pants suitable for men’s fashion. Casual styles like jeans, chinos, joggers and cargo pants work well for everyday wear. Formal options include trousers, dress pants and suit pants for professional settings and events requiring a dress code. Specialty athletic and activewear pants like sweats, yoga pants and swim trunks are designed for workouts, sports and specific activities. The occasion and needs should dictate the kind of pants men choose.
Q. How many types of pants are available?
A. There are over a dozen main types of pants available for men including jeans, chinos, trousers, khakis, dress pants, suit pants, joggers, cargo pants, activewear pants, duck pants and more. Each of these pants types comes in a variety of materials, colors, fits, lengths and styles. The options are nearly endless!
Q. Which pant is best to wear?
A. The most versatile pant style to wear is dark wash denim jeans, as they pair well with shirts, t-shirts, sweaters and jackets for both casual and smart casual looks. Chinos are also extremely versatile for dressing up or down seamlessly. Wool tropical trousers are a good year-round choice for the office and formal events. Ultimately the occasion dictates the best type of pants to wear.
Q. What men’s pants are trending?
A. Some current top trends in men’s pants include pastel and acid-wash denim jeans, corduroy pants, patterned dress pants, oversized and utility joggers, cropped chinos and trousers, bold printed sweatpants, and leather pants. Branded athletic wear and tech-fabric pants are also quite popular right now.
Q. What kind of pants are for guys?
A. There are many kinds of pants suitable for men’s fashion. Casual styles like jeans, chinos, joggers and cargo pants work well for everyday wear. Formal options include trousers, dress pants and suit pants for professional settings and events requiring a dress code. Specialty athletic and activewear pants like sweats, yoga pants and swim trunks are designed for workouts, sports and specific activities. The occasion and needs should dictate the kind of pants men choose.
Q. How many types of pants are available?
A. There are over a dozen main types of pants available for men including jeans, chinos, trousers, khakis, dress pants, suit pants, joggers, cargo pants, activewear pants, duck pants and more. Each of these pants types comes in a variety of materials, colors, fits, lengths and styles. The options are nearly endless!
Q. Which pant is best to wear?
A. The most versatile pant style to wear is dark wash denim jeans, as they pair well with shirts, t-shirts, sweaters and jackets for both casual and smart casual looks. Chinos are also extremely versatile for dressing up or down seamlessly. Wool tropical trousers are a good year-round choice for the office and formal events. Ultimately the occasion dictates the best type of pants to wear.
Q. What men’s pants are trending?
A. Some current top trends in men’s pants include pastel and acid-wash denim jeans, corduroy pants, patterned dress pants, oversized and utility joggers, cropped chinos and trousers, bold printed sweatpants, and leather pants. Branded athletic wear and tech-fabric pants are also quite popular right now.
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