Choose your Khaki Pants

History – Sir Harry Lumsden is widely credited with giving us what we now consider the khaki pant.  In 1846 he was commanding a British Army troop of Indian recruits, and according to legend, ordered their white trousers dyed to better blend with the local terrain.  Mazari, a native plant was used to achieve the color called  khaki, also the Hindu word for “dust”.
After World War II, their good looks brought them, as surplus, to widespread civilian use and manufacture. Today there are hundreds, if not thousands, of varieties of khakis, from pajama-like drawstring jobs to your aforementioned Capitoline pleated, permanent-press “dorkers.”

Length – Length, and whether to roll-up cuffs or not is all personal preference. But here is my take – if your khaki’s are too long take them to a tailor.  Just be specific about what you want though, or you may end up with a creepy little jean hem on your khakis.  Go for a deep fold-over hem, or just cut ‘em off and let them fray naturally, if that’s how you like.
And if you’re vertically challenged or just have shorter legs, beware of rolling your khakis too high– it will only draw attention towards your short legs.

Cut – I suggest – avoid pleats. To up your game with khakis you’ll need to focus on fit. Straight-leg varieties are the most conventional and comfortable, while slim-cut versions, with a slightly low rise, are the most modern. Both types should skim your hips, and the fly should sit naturally.”
I like a cleaner fit, but don’t want to look like I’m wearing leggings. Again, personal preference and body type is the key, so go with what looks and feels the best.

Fabric – 100% cotton. No nylon, lycra, or rayon please. In general, try to avoid anything and everything that says– Stretch or Easy Care. Cotton twills are great year-round and lighter weight poplins are perfect for spring and summer.

Cuffs –  The Duke of Windsor popularized the look by turning-up the bottoms of his khakis (called turn-ups, across the pond)– that’s how cuffed bottoms came into popularity.  And surely you’ve noticed that formal trousers and tuxedo bottoms are never cuffed– considered a faux pas, too casual and completely unacceptable.

Where To Wear – Client Meeting, Gallery Opening, Dinner Party, Wine Tasting, Job Interview, First Date and so on..

I’m a lover of Khakis. The Khakis I own are soft, with a luxurious fabric and an easy stretch. Paired them with printed button down and neutral heels here, polished the look with an elegant stand-out bag and red lips.
Are you all set to roll in khakis?