subject: What Are Chinos? [print this page] What are chinos and just why are they so popular? The term refers to a coarse cotton twilled fabric. It is frequently used in the manufacture of uniforms, in particular for trousers. The history of the chino goes back to mid-19th century India and they were developed at this time too for women in the British and French military.
This is largely due to its notoriously quality as a heavy duty material which is good for withstanding large amounts of rugged wear and tear. It has now become commonplace for the trousers made from this fabric to be referred to also as "chinos." They have in recent years become quite a fashion item where a more modern casual look is required for everyday wear, particularly when jeans would be too casual or not appropriate. Chinos offer loose comfort for the warmer months when jeans can be too uncomfortable, and close on the legs, yet can still give a fashionable look.
The great thing about these is that you can wear them throughout the spring and summer months, keeping you covered yet looking cool and relaxed. As the material they are made from is lightweight and generally pale in colour, they easily blend in with other garments and accessories. They have the advantage of being a really comfortable pair of trousers and yet avoiding the frumpy look. As the material is so light they score benefit points well over and above anything made of polyester.
As a general pair of trousers to have in your wardrobe they look perfect with most tops, t-shirts, button down shirts, polo shirts "" or even a loose jumper for cold evenings.
The cotton used to make chinos is twill cotton and the colour is nearly light brown, beige, or sometimes white. The other advantage in these wonderful trousers is that they can have a more sophisticated, polished image which is wonderful for those business-casual days or networking evenings after work. Add on a blazer and you can really look good, yet still retain a casual look.
There are some chinos that use a heavier grade of fabric. These are really made for those days when you spill your drink or get caught in the rain and mud. Stretch varieties of these trousers are another option, made with washed cotton with some lycra spun in for better shape and durability. Whatever chinos you buy, for golf course, pub or work, you will not go far wrong.
