The 7 best chinos for men, including Levis, M&S and Ralph Lauren

CHINOS are a classic wardrobe staple, are loved by stars and work perfectly for casual wear.

Chinos are steeped in history after rising to popularity in the middle of the last century as returning soldiers from the Second World War wore them. And in the decades since they’ve become a staple of many men’s wardrobes, we’ve rounded up the best chinos for men below.

Chinos are slightly smarter than jeans but more casual than tailored trousers.

The most classic way to wear them is with a blazer – the ideal smart-casual look as regularly championed by men like Prince William.

Ralph Fiennes goes for the same tailored look, but with wider, pleated chinos that add a more modern and stylish touch – while retaining the smarter finish.

But it’s not all blazers – leave it to Brad Pitt to show a more contemporary way to wear the trousers, with a matching jumper and a much more relaxed feel.

Choose your new chinos by selecting a fit and brand that works for you.

Read the guide to discover the best chinos for men on the market.

How do you choose a pair of chinos?

Chinos need to be just the right tightness to complement your height and build.

Finding the right chinos for you can elongate your legs and slim you down.

Your chinos should never be too long, so roll them when you’re wearing brogues or loafers.

You don’t have to stay neutral with chinos, either.

Fill your wardrobe with staples like grey, navy, camel, and khaki, but have some bold shades under your belt for moments where you want to stand out.

1. We tested: T.M. Lewin Non Iron Radcliffe Chino

• Non Iron Radcliffe Slim Fit Grey Chino, £53 from T.M. Lewin – buy here

These chinos from T.M. Lewin are a best seller, and we can see why.

We tested them out and were impressed with the fit, the quality of the fabric, and loved the fact that they’re non-iron too.

They’re made from 97% cotton and 3% elastane which allows you to move freely and comfortably, and the fabric is also anti-fade and anti-piling.

We found them versatile enough to wear to smarter functions, as well as to trips down the pub with our mates.

They’re available in 7 colours, including beige (sand), black and navy, as well as grey and olive.

We’re big fans, and will probably be buying a pair in every colour.

2. Arket Slim Chinos

• Slim Chinos, £55 from Arket – buy here

Arket is a relatively recent addition to British high streets, but its Scandinavian roots and emphasis on quality has quickly caught on.

These chinos are made from organic cotton that comes with a soft, broken-in finish – so they’ll feel like old favourites from the very first time you try them on.

3. Levis Slim Tapered II Chino

• Levi’s Slim Tapered II Chino, £65 from John Lewis – buy here

Levis are known for their quality jeans, and it seems their chinos don’t disappoint either.

This pair has 5-star reviews with customers raving about their quality and comfort.

They’re made from a stretch cotton blend, have a classic 5-pocket design and taper at the ankles.

Available in navy and olive and the above link, and grey and beige here.

4. Dickies Slim Straight Work Pant Flex Chinos

• Dickies Slim Straigh Work Pant Flex, £60 from Dickies – buy here

These men’s chinos from Dickies are designed to be durable and comfortable.

Made from a poly-cotton blend, they’re stretchy, wrinkle- and stain-resistant.

They come in three classic colours – beige, black and navy, and are available in waist size 28-40, and lengths 30-34.

If you’re after a casual, straight-legged chino, these could be the way to go.

5. Gap Modern Khakis in Straight Fit

• Modern Khakis in Straight Fit With GapFlex, from £39.95 from GAP – buy here

Essential American menswear is what Gap does best, so chinos are a trademark – who can forget the brand’s iconic campaign with a throwback to Steve Mcqueen wearing a pair?

They’re made from a Gap-Flex stretch cotton, have a stain-resistant weave, and have a stretch waistband for added comfort.

Available in 6 colours and 11 waist sizes, there’s something for everyone.

Take style tips from McQueen himself and cuff your hems.

6. M&S Regular Fit Organic Cotton Ultimate Chinos

• Regular Fit Organic Cotton Ultimate Chinos, £35 from M&S – buy here

Made from an organic cotton blend, these chinos have been made with 4-way stretch technology for all-day comfort.

They feature an invisible zip pocket, stylish turned up hems, and are water-resistant.

These come in three different colours and have 5-star reviews.

We are also a fan of the cheaper, non-organic regular fit stretch chinos.

7. Ralph Lauren Slim Fit Stretch Cotton Chinos

Ralph Lauren is the king of Americana with a twist, so it only seems appropriate that his brand offers a more out-there option for chinos.

This pair is perfect for both office and weekend wear. 

Further that feel with a letterman jacket and loafers – we dare you.

If you’re after a more classic chino, their Slim Chino in Black Mask is pretty stylish too.

• Polo Ralph Lauren Slim Fit Stretch Cotton Trousers, £129 from John Lewis – buy here

Whether you want to upgrade your wardrobe, find some new gym kit or get some gift-buying inspiration, Sun Selects is here to help you out.

Enjoyed our roundup of the best chinos for men? Check out our dedicated Sun Selects fashion section.

Looking for some labels? Take a look at our guide to the cheap Gucci belts. 

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This article and any featured products have been independently chosen by The Sun journalists. All recommendations within the article are informed by expert editorial opinion. If you click a link and buy a product we may earn revenue: this helps to support The Sun, and in no way affects our recommendations.

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