Expert Advice on Men's Dress Pants
Men's dress pants are essential pieces in your wardrobe. From pleats to cuffs and different styles of fit, there are a lot of factors involved in picking out a great pair of dress slacks. Read the following tips to determine which dress pant features will make you look your best.
Pleated pants or flat-front pants
Pleated dress pants are the classic look. Pleats have a couple benefits, like adding detail to the pants as well as flattering large-built body types. If you have larger legs, carry extra weight in your midsection, or have a broad upper body, pleated pants will help balance out your appearance. They may actually help you look slimmer. One to two pleats will sufficiently capture this effect.
Flat-front pants, on the other hand, are more modern and complement a business casual look. Plain front slacks have no pleats, giving them a slimmer and more tailored appearance. Men with slim-built body types look best in this type of pant.
Cuffed dress pants or no-cuff pants
Trouser cuffs are required on some pants but can also be left up to your personal taste. If you are wearing pants with pleats, you need to have a cuff on your pants; the weight of the cuff will hold the pleats in place. But, if you are sporting flat-front pants, you can choose cuff or no cuff, depending on your preference. Either of these options are suitable for business dress or business casual apparel.
Men who are tall and lanky look better in cuffed dress pants. Shorter men should stay away from cuffs unless they are wearing pleated pants. No-cuff pants elongate the legs, giving the illusion of a taller and leaner frame.
If you prefer no-cuff pants, do not buy cuffed pants and have a tailor take them out. Taking the cuff out of a pant will dramatically alter the look of the pants. However, cuffs can be added to a pant that does not have them without changing the fit or silhouette.
Slim-fit or wide-leg
Another feature to consider is the fit of the leg. If you have a slimmer body type, you will be able to wear pants with a slim-fit leg. But, if you have a larger torso, you'll want to try a wide-leg pant to create a balanced look.
Tailoring pants
After you buy your men's dress pants, you may need to have the waist adjusted, cuffs added or the hem shortened. Depending on how much work the pants need and the fabric they're made of, the price may vary. You can get pricing estimates from tailors before settling on one. Be sure to ask if the tailor offers complimentary modifications after the first service as some will offer this benefit.
Now that you know some of the basics to picking out dress pants, you're sure to find the men's pants that fit you best. Visit a JoS. A. Bank store near you and let our experienced store clerks help you find the right pants for every occasion.
