How to Style Chinos

Chinos are the workhorse of any solid wardrobe—clean enough for a night out, rugged enough for the everyday, and easy to dress up or down without trying too hard. But pulling them off isn’t about following trends—it’s about knowing how to make them work for your style.

 In this post, we’re breaking down simple, no-fuss ways to style chinos that look good, feel right, and stay true to who you are, whether you’re heading into town or off the grid.

What Are Chinos Anyway?

Before we get into the details of styling, let's talk about what chinos are. Chinos are lightweight, cotton twill pants, originally designed for the military, which explains their durability and functionality. 

Over the years, they've evolved into a menswear staple known for their versatility. They’re not as casual as jeans, but not as formal as dress pants either, making them the ultimate piece for guys who like to keep things simple but elevated.

History and Types of Chinos

Chino pants have a rich history that dates back to the 19th century. Originally designed as military attire, chinos were made from a durable cotton twill fabric that was both comfortable and practical. 

Over time, chinos have evolved to become a fashion staple, with various types and styles available to suit different tastes and preferences. From classic and slim-fit chinos to cropped and utility chinos, there’s a style to suit every occasion. Khaki chinos, in particular, are a popular choice for their timeless and versatile look.

Why Chinos Are Worth It

Here’s why every guy should own a solid pair (or three):

• Versatile: Fit for work, drinks, or a Saturday morning coffee run.
• Comfortable: Lightweight and breathable without sacrificing durability.
• Easy Maintenance: No need to baby them; they get better with wear.
• American-Made Options: Invest in small-batch, high-quality chinos like the ones in our collection.

While there are general guidelines for pairing styles, personal preferences play a significant role in achieving a desired look, so customize as you wish.

Without further ado, let’s get into how to style them without getting a headache or looking like you’re trying too hard.

Shirts to Wear With Chinos

The beauty of chinos lies in how adaptable they are. Pairing chinos with appropriate clothing items is crucial to achieving a polished and sophisticated look. Here’s your cheat sheet for pairing the right shirts with your chinos.

1. Go Casual With a T-Shirt

Not just any t-shirt, though. Opt for something durable, with texture and weight that holds its shape. Our Sidewalk Vintage Tee or Old 40 Sidewalk Tee pairs perfectly with chinos for a laid-back, no-nonsense look that still looks deliberate. 

Tuck it in for a tailored vibe, or leave it untucked for max comfort. Psst…pairing clean white sneakers with a t-shirt and chinos can enhance this casual look.

2. Layer Up With a Flannel

Feeling the chill? Toss on a sturdy flannel like our Boca Long Sleeve Flannel Shirt. Stick to earthy tones like rust or olive to keep it rugged. Bonus points if it’s lined for extra warmth and durability.

3. Elevate With a Button-Up

For something a notch above casual, try a button-up shirt like our Bodega Striped Long Sleeve or the Coburn Heavyweight Long Sleeve Shirt. Roll up the sleeves for a relaxed vibe or button it all the way for a more polished look. 

If you need to slightly elevate it, consider layering a sport coat with chinos, showcasing its versatility and style. You can also try pairing it with a navy blazer and chinos can also create a sophisticated ensemble.

4. Stay Functional With a Jacket

Nothing pulls together a chinos outfit quite like a solid jacket. Whether it’s the Overdrive Waxed Canvas Jacket or the Deadeye Trucker, adding outerwear instantly ups your game while keeping you ready for any weather.

5. Layering with a Denim Jacket

One of the best ways to style chino pants is by layering with a denim jacket. This classic combination is perfect for casual outings and can add a cool, laid-back touch to any outfit. 

To pull off this look, try pairing your chinos with a fitted denim jacket and a simple t-shirt or dress shirt. Add a pair of shoes or sneakers to complete the ensemble. For a more polished appearance, consider adding a leather belt and a classic watch.

Best Shoes to Wear With Chinos

The wrong shoes can ruin an outfit completely. Keep it simple with these fail-safe options. Smart footwear like loafers can complete a polished and sophisticated look when paired with chinos.

1. Classic Sneakers

A pair of low-profile white sneakers will always work with chinos. They’re clean, comfortable, and effortlessly cool.

2. Leather Boots

For gritty, rugged masculine energy, lace up a pair of leather boots. Dark brown or black keeps them versatile without overdoing it. Pro tip? Roll your chinos at the cuff to show off your boots.

Chukka boots are also a versatile option that can enhance the overall aesthetic when paired with chinos.

3. Loafers or Dress Shoes

If the mood is more date night than daytime errands, pair your chinos with loafers or dress shoes. Just make sure your chinos’ hem hits right at the ankle for a clean finish. Suede loafers can adapt seamlessly to various dress codes when paired with chinos.

Casual vs Formal Chinos

Not all chinos are made the same, and the fit and fabric make a big difference. Dress chinos, in particular, can be suitable for more formal occasions, depending on their fabric and cut.

Casual Chinos

Look for slightly looser cuts and soft fabric like the ones in our collection. For casual wear, roll the cuffs and pair with a flannel or vintage tee for that easy, laid-back vibe.

Formal Chinos

Pairing formal chinos with a navy blazer can create a sophisticated look suitable for business casual settings. For a sharper look, opt for tailored chinos that fit close to your body without being too tight. Pair with a button-up or blazer, and keep accessories minimal to avoid going overboard.

Styling Cropped Chinos

Cropped chinos are a great alternative to traditional chino pants, offering a modern and stylish look that’s perfect for warmer weather. To style cropped chinos, try pairing them with a fitted top and a pair of sandals or sneakers. 

For a more formal look, consider adding a blazer or sports jacket to dress up the outfit as mentioned. Neutral colors like navy, black, and olive green are great choices for cropped chinos, as they can be easily paired with a variety of tops and shoes.

Chino Shorts for Warm Weather

Chino shorts are a great option for warm weather, offering a comfortable and stylish alternative to traditional shorts. To style chino shorts, try pairing them with a simple t-shirt or dress shirt and a pair of sneakers or sandals. 

For a more polished appearance, consider adding a leather belt and a classic watch. Chino shorts can also be dressed up with a blazer or sports jacket for a more formal look. Look for high-quality chinos made from cotton twill fabric for comfortable and durable wear.

Chinos Outfit Ideas

Need inspiration? Steal our go-to combos for different occasions. A classic pair of chinos can be styled in numerous ways for different occasions.

Weekend Errands

• Sidewalk Vintage Tee
• Casual sneakers
• Overdrive Waxed Canvas Jacket

Night Out

• Bodega Striped Long Sleeve Shirt
• Leather boots
• Boca Long Sleeve Flannel as a layering option

Office Casual

• Chapman Corduroy Jacket
• Coburn Heavyweight Long Sleeve Shirt
• Loafers or clean dress shoes

Why Choose Devium USA Chinos

If you’re investing in chinos, make sure they’re built to last. Our chinos are crafted with American-made fabrics, designed for durability, and produced in small batches to ensure attention to detail. 

Every pair carries the story of American craftsmanship, sustainability, and timeless style. Performance chinos blend comfort with a polished appearance, making them suitable for both professional and casual settings.

FAQs

What shirts to wear with chinos?

Chinos are a versatile wardrobe staple that pairs well with casual shirts, polo shirts, or dress shirts. For a classic and professional look, opt for a crisp white or light blue shirt.

How do I wear chinos for different occasions?

Chinos are perfect for both casual and smart casual styles. Pair khaki chinos with a sports jacket and leather belt for a polished yet relaxed outfit. For a casual outfit, navy or black chinos go great with a t-shirt or sweater and chukka boots.

Are chino pants suitable for formal settings?

While chinos are primarily casual pants, dress chinos can easily be styled for formal occasions. Wear them with a button-up shirt, dress pants-style accessories, and boat shoes for an elevated smart casual vibe.

What shoes go best with chinos?

Chinos are incredibly versatile and can be paired with boat shoes, chukka boots, or even sneakers for a casual style. For a more formal look, pair them with loafers or oxfords.

What makes chinos a wardrobe staple?

Chinos, especially khaki and navy chinos, are timeless and adaptable. Whether you're dressing up with a sports jacket or going casual with a t-shirt, they effortlessly fit into any outfit.

Make Chinos Your Everyday Essential

The best thing about chinos? They work as hard as you do. Whether you’re keeping it casual or dressing it up, they’ll always have your back (or legs, rather). Personal style influences how you can make chinos work for different occasions, from casual outings to more formal events.

If you’re ready to upgrade your wardrobe, check out our collection. With our curated selection of American-made styles, you’ll be set up to redefine what effortless style looks like.