Chinos have firmly established themselves as the quintessential item in a gentleman's wardrobe.
Their evolution from military uniform to a menswear staple mirrors a timeless trend that transcends eras, managing to look both effortlessly casual and impeccably smart.
Amidst this sartorial success story, a debate simmers: Should you roll up your chinos? Rolling up chinos not only offers a stylish but also acts a warm weather solution in the warmer months. It can work with certain footwear but doesn’t work everytime.
In this blog I'll explain when you should and shouldn't roll up your chinos. Also offering the best fitting men's chinos that seamlessly roll up every time right here at Tapered Menswear.
What Are Chinos?
Originally designed for the British and French military in the mid-19th century, chinos have traversed a long path to become a civilian favourite. These trousers are crafted from a lightweight cotton twill fabric, prized for its comfort and versatility.
Chinos are the chameleons of menswear, blurring the lines between relaxed and refined.
They fit snugly into a plethora of settings, swinging from the anchor of a casual weekend outfit to the complement of a semi-formal ensemble.
Are Chinos Supposed to Be Rolled Up?
While some may argue that chinos should graze the shoe with a single break, others often beg to differ.
The roll-up has emerged as a deliberate style choice, influenced heavily by the relaxed streetwear trends and the inclination towards showing off those meticulously chosen socks or sneakers.
How To Roll Up Chinos
The process is simple but demands attention to detail. Start by ensuring the chinos are laid flat. Fold up the hem to the desired width – usually about an inch – and smooth out any creases.
Repeat this once or twice more, depending on your preferred height.
The goal is to achieve a crisp, clean cuff that stays put throughout the day. Be wary, some chinos that aren't meant to be rolled up show tell-tale signs of this and will make the width of the cuff look too wide.
How Far Do You Roll Up Chinos?
The length of your roll is a silent communicator of style. A single roll signifies a subtle nod to the trend, while multiple rolls venture into a more casual, deliberate statement.
In a professional setting, it’s best to keep the roll minimal, ensuring it complements rather than dominates the outfit.
Should Chinos Have Cuffs or Without?
Cuffed chinos do bring a sense of completion and can add a layer of sophistication to the overall look.
Uncuffed chinos, on the other hand, present a cleaner silhouette. The choice between the two often comes down to personal preference and the context of the occasion.
Rolling Up Chinos for Different Occasions
A summer evening might welcome a double roll paired with loafers and a linen shirt, whereas the office might call for a subtle single roll with a crisp button-down.
For casual outings, pairing rolled-up chinos with white pumps and a fitted tee can make for a perfect off-duty look.
To Cuff or Not to Cuff: The Great Debate
Rolling up your chinos can give your outfit an extra touch. It's important to consider whether your chinos can be rolled up and try them on with and without the cuff. It will be obvious if they shouldn't be cuffed!
How to Make Chinos Tight at the Bottom
There are 2 methods in which you can make chinos tighter at the bottom, using a sewing machine of by follding
Sewing Machine
To make chinos tighter at the bottom, first turn them inside out and put them on. Pinch the fabric along the outer seams to your desired tightness. Mark this new seam line with tailor's chalk. Take them off. Then, using a sewing machine, stitch along the marked line.
Start from the knee and sew down to the hem. This will create a tapered effect. Trim the excess fabric, leaving about a half-inch seam allowance. Finish the raw edges with a zigzag stitch or serger to prevent fraying. Turn the chinos right side out, and you have successfully tightened the bottom of your chinos.
Folding
To make chinos tighter at the bottom through folding, start by cuffing the hem to your desired length. Then, pinch the excess fabric on the inside or outside seam of each leg to create a pleat.
Fold this pleat against the leg and hold it in place. Secure the fold by wrapping a small elastic band around it. Place the band just above the cuff. Make sure it's tight enough to keep the pleat in place but not so tight as to cut off circulation. Adjust the fabric so the cuff looks neat. Secure the pleat comfortably. This gets a tapered look without sewing.
Best Fitting Chinos For Men
Regardless of rolling up your chinos, the allure ultimately lies in their fit. A well-fitted pair of chinos flatters the form without restricting movement.
For those seeking that perfect taper and fit, Tapered Menswear offers options that ensure comfort without sacrificing style.
Chinos, when fit correctly, should complement the male physique. Whether you're tall, short, athletic, or lean, the right fit can enhance your body type and boost your confidence. It's not just about the trousers but how they make you feel.
Exclusively designed for guys with an athletic build. Our chinos are crafted from 4-way stretch that is comfortable, robust and allows complete freedom of movement.
Our team of leading tailors and industry experts have pioneered a unique Tapered fit that allows sufficient room for the thighs, glutes and calves whilst tapering in at the ankle, so there is no need to size up to fit your muscular build.
No more:
❌ Sizing up for chinos to fit your quads, glutes and calves
❌ Heavy, restrictive fabrics causing discomfort and stiffness
❌ Seams bursting open
