Lightweight, comfortable, and durable, chinos for men are a closet staple. Keep reading to discover how to put together your own chino style with different shirts, jackets and footwear.
Tops for Chino Pants
Because chinos are often a neutral color, they look good with both solid colors and patterned shirts.
Your shirt choice is the main element that determines how casual or elevated you want your look to be depending on the occasion and personal preference.
T-Shirts
T-shirts and chinos are a classic for casual days. Keep things simple with a plain tee or pocket t-shirt, or add your favorite graphic – think retro logos, nature-inspired designs or classic stripes. For cooler days, go for a long-sleeve t-shirt.
Button-Down Shirts
For backyard barbeques or drinks by the beach, pair short-sleeve button-ups with your chino pants. A long-sleeve button-down worn open with a t-shirt underneath is another solid option for laid-back evenings. Pair cuffed chinos and button-ups with Chukka boots or white sneakers for a more elevated look.
Hawaiian Shirts
On vacation or when the party’s calling, pair your chinos with a Hawaiian shirt to create a relaxed look that’s equally comfortable. The bold and intricate patterns of Hawaiian shirts work well against the neutrals of chinos and can be found in a range of fabrics, including cotton, linen and bamboo.
For more Hawaiian shirt ideas, read our guide on How To Style a Hawaiian Shirt.
Sweaters
For cool fall days and even cooler evenings, printed or solid colored sweaters pair well with chinos. If you’re looking for warmth but want to be more casual, crew neck sweatshirts with graphics or logo embroidery are comfortable, everyday options.
Outerwear for Chino Trousers
The versatility of chino trousers works with jackets as well. Explore different options that play around with texture and warmth fit for your occasion.
Jean Jackets
Denim and chinos create a vintage look – choose classic blue jean jackets for a more casual vibe, or try black denim or jean jackets with fur collars for more edge.
Fleece Overshirts
If you like the look of flannels but need more warmth, fleece button-downs create the same look using similar patterns. Their polyester fabric is soft, lightweight and does a good job of trapping body heat without compromising on breathability.
Puffer Jackets
Puffer jackets are another staple that pairs well with chinos when the temps drop. Traditional puffers have quilted patterns with taffeta lining for extra warmth. You can also pair your chino pants with a puffer vest on top of a hoodie for varying temperatures – add a folded fisherman-style beanie for an urban look.
Canvas Jackets
Chinos also work well with the utility style of canvas jackets. They typically come in a range of neutral colors – olive greens, khakis and blacks – with textural details, like metal snap closures and corduroy collars. Embrace the workwear look with trucker hats and flannels.
Shoes for Chino Pants
Along with your choice of top, your choice in shoes will decide how dressed up or down you want your chino pants outfit to be.
Low-Top Sneakers
Low-tops sneakers give a casual look that works well year-round – whether they be classic canvas slip-ons, sneakers or 2000s-inspired skate shoes. Cuff the hem of your chinos for bulkier shoes or keep them uncuffed for more streamline shoes.
High-Top Sneakers
Classic lace-up high-tops and chinos are a foolproof option for any shirt or jacket combo. Mid-top sneakers with padded ankles look best with more straight-cut chinos, as do any chunkier type of footwear. Loose, floor-length chinos create a streetwear vibe with any type of sneaker.
Chukka Boots
Casual suede boots add textural interest to your chino outfit – pair with a white tee and neutral flannel or an oversized jacket to balance the more structured shoe. Puffers or crew necks with dad caps are another option that complement Chukka boots.
Men’s chino pants are a year-round staple that can be styled for everyday or nights out depending on your shirt, jacket and shoe choice. Create chino outfits that transition easily to wherever the day takes you.
