How to Style Corduroy Pants: 5 Corduroy Pants Outfits
Written by MasterClass
Last updated: Mar 24, 2022 • 1 min read
Corduroy pants go great with T-shirts, denim jackets, button-down shirts, and more, making them a versatile article of clothing for casual looks and work outfits alike.
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What Are Corduroy Pants?
Corduroy pants are made of cotton twill weave fabric, meaning the threads are woven together in diagonal lines with thick vertical ribs known as wales. Corduroy pants tend to be thick, durable, ridged, and cozy. Corduroy pants are comfortable and appear dressy, making them suitable for smart-casual outfits. These pants can give off a retro look; they were once fixtures of preppy menswear, but now they can be part of fashion-forward looks for anyone.
5 Ways to Style Corduroy Pants
The color and fit of your corduroy pants can inspire many outfit options. Try out some of these ideas for wearing corduroy trousers:
- 1. Sport a more formal look. Straight-leg corduroys can behave similarly to chinos—wear a tucked-in white button-down shirt with a pair of brown corduroy pants for a relaxed but professional ensemble. For an extra formal touch, wear a cashmere sweater—or try a matching corduroy blazer to make a corduroy suit.
- 2. Pair loafers with slimmer pants. As with skinny jeans, slim-fit corduroys pair well with loafers. This pants style cinches at the ankles, allowing you to show off your pair of shoes. Complete this outfit with a turtleneck.
- 3. Match fashion trends with a looser fit. High-waisted corduroys with a wide leg make for a more youthful, trendy look. Pair your looser, wide-leg pants with ankle boots, and throw on a hoodie for a cozier feel.
- 4. Experiment with color. Green, purple, or pink corduroys can stand out and work as their own fashion piece, especially when you pair them with a plain top and neutral shoes.
- 5. Go for a classic combination. A crisp, white shirt—loose or tucked in—will always be a clean pairing with corduroy pants. Tuck in your tee and wear dressier for a smart casual, or leave your shirt untucked and wear sneakers for a more relaxed look.
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