Chinos VS Jeans | Mens Jeans and Chinos By Paul Brown
Chinos vs Jeans – Our Guides to Choosing the Best trousers
Indigo Jeans
Navy Chinos
When it comes to trousers suitable for workwear or more casual occasions, the most popular varieties of trousers that come to mind are chinos and jeans. This is due to the fact that both chinos and jeans are particularly versatile trousers and can pair with a large array of different garments, from dress shirts to casual shirts, sweaters, and jackets.
In this article, we’ll be analyzing the differences between chinos vs jeans, and providing all of the information you need on the two different trousers. We’ll also provide some tips on what to consider when you’re looking for a new pair of chinos or jeans in our fashion style guide.
What is the Difference Between Chinos and Jeans?
Simply put: the difference between chinos and jeans comes down to the materials that comprise the trousers. While both trousers are typically made of cotton, the variety of the cotton that they’re made of will dictate their designation as chinos or jeans.
Chinos are made from chino cloth, which is a twill-cotton fabric. Twill describes the way in which the cotton is woven, which is in a diagonal pattern. This gives the fabric greater durability when compared to plain-weave cotton.
Conversely, jeans are made from denim. While denim is also made from cotton, the way denim is produced leaves it with a heavier, sturdier feel.
Aside from materials, the design and appearance of the trousers are of course different as well. Typically, jeans have five pockets in their design, while chinos only have four.
Are Chinos More Casual Than Jeans?
While both pairs of trousers are perfect for casual occasions, jeans definitely have a more casual appearance when compared to chinos. Chinos exist in a firm middle ground between more casual trousers (like jeans) and more formal attire (such as slacks or smart dress trousers). Chinos are also available in more neutral colours when compared to jeans (such as beige, navy, or grey).
If you’re looking for business casual attire, we recommend going with chinos over jeans. Jeans, however, are great for casual attire, and can easily be paired with a dress shirt for a smart, relaxed look.
Chinos or Jeans in Hot Weather
red chinos
beige Chinos
When it comes to breathability, chinos are the better option when compared to jeans. This is because chinos are made from lighter materials when compared to denim, which often features a heavier, less breathable feel.
Jeans and Chinos: A History of the Two trousers
Both varieties of trousers have been in existence for hundreds of years. While the origin of jeans is disputed (most theories point towards them being invented in France), the modern jean as we know them today was first patented by Levi Strauss and Jacob Davis in 1873. These jeans were among the first to feature copper rivets, which are a hallmark of classic jean styling even in the modern day. Back then, jeans were used mainly by the working class: labourers and miners appreciated their durability.
Davis and Strauss’ patent ended in 1890, which allowed other competitors to produce their versions of the popular Levi’s style of jeans.
Chinos, on the other hand, can trace their roots to military uniforms. The first recorded use of the term “chino” originates from the late 19th century during the Spanish-American war. American armed forces members wore chinos while stationed in the
Philippines, where locals began referring to the trousers as “chinos”, due to the fact that the trousers were produced in China. When those same servicemen returned to America following the war, they continued to wear their chinos, causing them to gain popularity among the American public for their versatility and semi-formal aesthetic.
Chinos vs Jeans Material – Stretch, or Non-Stretch?
The materials of whichever pant you’re looking for is going to dictate the overall comfort of the garment. When looking for a new pair of chinos or jeans, one must consider the option of stretch vs. non-stretch material.
Traditionally speaking, chinos and jeans were made strictly using 100% cotton, which made for a stiffer garment with no stretch. Nowadays, many trousers manufacturers include a small amount of stretch material (such as elastane), which helps to make the garment move with you, increasing comfort.
If you plan to wear your chinos or jeans while working or if you plan to wear them day-to-day, we highly recommend seeking out a pair of chinos or jeans with a small percentage of elastane. This will not only improve the comfort of the garment but will also help the garment shape to your personal leg shape.
The Benefits of Jeans vs Chinos
Grey Jeans
Indigo Jeans
When analyzing the benefits of jeans when compared to chinos, we think the main strengths of jeans are:
1. The durability
Since jeans are made from denim, they are typically sturdier and more durable than chinos.
2. The casual appearance
If you’re looking for very casual trousers, jeans are often the best choice.
3. The classic look
Simply put, nothing looks comparable to the classic and timeless look of a blue pair of jeans.
The Benefits of Chinos vs Jeans
Stone Chinos
Black Chinos
Now when looking at the benefits of chinos when compares to jeans, we think it’s best summed up as:
1. The business-casual appearance
Chinos are the best choice for the workplace, as they can be dressed up or down. Jeans can sometimes be too casual for the office.
2. The breathability
Chinos are made from chino cloth, which features better breathability when compared to denim.
3. The versatility of colour
Chinos are usually available in more colours when compared to jeans, allowing you to match them with a greater array of colours when compared to jeans.
Conclusion – Chinos and Jeans from Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing by Paul Brown
We hope that this guide has given you the knowledge you need to make an educated decision between selecting chinos and jeans for any given occasion.
At Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing by Paul Brown, all of our chinos and jeans are produced in our Suffolk factory in England. Made using only the highest quality materials, our chinos and jeans are crafted with the expertise and attention to detail that any discerning fashionable person deserves. When you wear a pair of chinos or jeans from Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing by Paul Brown, you can immediately feel the difference that the quality craftsmanship imparts in the garment.
