Trouser Types
Trousers sit between tailoring and casualwear, which is exactly why the naming gets confusing. This hub sets out the main trouser types you will meet across our menswear range -- grouped by how smart they are and how they are cut -- so you can shop by name rather than guesswork.
Everyday and smart
Chino Trousers
The versatile cotton-twill trouser that bridges smart and casual -- the single most useful pair most men own.
What defines it
Chinos are cut from mid-weight cotton twill with a flat, clean finish and minimal detailing. They dress up with a shirt and down with a tee, which is why they anchor most wardrobes.
Who it suits
Chinos suit almost everyone and every occasion short of black tie. Browse the full range in mens chinos (/collections/mens-trousers-chinos).
Tailored Trousers
A structured, pressed trouser cut for a sharp line -- the smart end of the trouser spectrum.
What defines it
Tailored trousers use finer cloth, a proper waistband with a hook-and-bar, and often a pressed crease down the leg. They read formal and pair with a blazer or suit jacket.
Fit note
The break -- how the hem meets the shoe -- defines a tailored trouser. A slight break looks modern and considered.
Formal Trousers
Suit-weight trousers designed to be worn with matching or coordinating jackets for business and occasion wear.
What defines it
Formal trousers are cut from worsted wool or a fine blend, with a clean front and jetted rear pockets. They are the dressiest trouser you will own outside a full suit.
When to choose it
Reach for formal trousers for the office, weddings and events where a chino would look too casual.
Casual and utility
Drawstring Trousers
A relaxed trouser with an elasticated, cord-adjustable waist for comfort-first wear.
What defines it
Instead of a fixed waistband, drawstring trousers cinch with an internal or external cord. They read relaxed and travel extremely well.
Styling
Drawstring trousers work for smart-casual when cut from a crisp cloth, and for lounging when cut from jersey or terry.
Cargo Trousers
A utility trouser defined by large bellows pockets on the thigh -- practical, rugged and back in fashion.
What defines it
Cargo trousers add flapped or zipped patch pockets to the leg. Modern versions are cut slimmer and cleaner than the baggy originals.
Who it suits
Cargos suit a casual, streetwear-leaning wardrobe and pair well with a plain tee and trainers.
Utility Trousers
A workwear-inspired trouser built for durability, with reinforced construction and functional detailing.
What defines it
Utility trousers borrow from workwear: tougher fabric, triple stitching and hard-wearing pockets. They are the practical, do-anything trouser.
Fabric note
Look for ripstop or heavy twill, which resist snags and abrasion far better than a standard chino cloth.
Jogger Trousers
A tapered, cuffed trouser with an elasticated hem -- the smartest end of athleisure.
What defines it
Joggers taper to a ribbed or elasticated ankle cuff and usually have a drawstring waist. Cut from a clean fabric they look sharp, not sloppy.
Who it suits
Joggers suit relaxed and active wardrobes. Browse the range in mens joggers (/collections/mens-joggers).
Cut and leg shape
Tapered Trousers
A trouser cut fuller through the thigh then narrowing to the ankle for a modern, flattering line.
What defines it
Taper describes the leg narrowing from knee to hem. It gives room where you need it and a clean line down to the shoe.
Why choose it
Tapered is the most flattering everyday shape for most builds and the safest modern default.
Straight Leg Trousers
A trouser with a consistent leg width from knee to hem for a classic, timeless silhouette.
What defines it
Straight-leg trousers keep the same width all the way down, giving a relaxed, traditional look that never dates.
Who it suits
Straight leg suits those who prefer a classic cut and works especially well with tailored and formal cloth.
Cropped Trousers
A trouser deliberately cut short at the ankle to show the shoe and read contemporary.
What defines it
Cropped trousers end above the ankle bone, either by design or by turn-up. They suit warmer weather and a fashion-led look.
Styling
Cropped trousers pair well with loafers or trainers worn without visible socks for a clean summer line.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most versatile type of trousers?
Chinos. Cut from cotton twill, they dress up with a shirt and down with a tee, covering almost every occasion short of formal events.
What is the difference between chinos and tailored trousers?
Chinos use cotton twill and read smart-casual; tailored trousers use finer suit-weight cloth with a pressed crease and read formal, pairing with a jacket.
Are cargo trousers still fashionable?
Yes. Modern cargos are cut slimmer and cleaner than the baggy originals, and the utility pocket detailing has returned as a strong casual look.