For a warmer, more rugged look and feel, men's corduroy pants are a popular option for the guy who wants to look good and be comfortable. Corduroys come in a variety of colors and styles and are available year-round online, but you'll find the most options everywhere when the autumn and winter clothes come in.
Tips for Wearing Corduroy Pants
Corduroys used to only be acceptable as casual weekend wear. However, as business casual has come into vogue, pleated corduroys can now also be worn to work. Some places will even allow corduroy jeans, although you need to check your company's dress policy before you decide to wear them.
If you live in a cold-weather climate, a good pair of corduroys are a must if you are going to be outdoors for any amount of time. They tend to be a looser cut, so you can easily slip on some thermal underwear underneath them for added warmth and comfort, but no bulk. Corduroys are heavier than jeans, so you won't have as slim a look if that's what you need or prefer. Because their look can be subtly different, it is best to try them on before you commit to a buy.
Sources for Mens Corduroy Pants
You can get corduroys in any number of styles, including jeans. For a higher end pair of cords, go to Saks Fifth Avenue, which has AG Adriano Goldschmied Protégé straight-leg corduroys in either dark brown or gray. They have a retro style and are made from Supima cotton. They feature five pockets and a zip fly. They are tailored to fit loosely.
The reliable and popular Dockers have men's corduroy pants in a five-pocket style. The narrow-wale cords are treated with an enzyme wash and blasting so that they are extra soft and already have a relaxed look. The fit is eased through the seat and thigh with a flat front and slightly tapered leg. They are 55% cotton and 45% polyester.
Lands' End has a large selection of cords good for either work or play. A few of their pants include:
- Regular Pleat-Front Traditional Fit Wide Wale. Made of 100% combed cotton, the pants have an integrated French fly designed to maintain a flat front. The crotch is lined for further comfort. You can get free hemming or cuffing if needed. The same trousers are offered in a "comfort waist" style with sewn in bands that expand the waist up to three inches.
- Traditional 5-pocket Jeans. The look of jeans, the warmth of cords. The wales feature "W-weave" that can help stop the "balding" of corduroy. Free hemming is available.
- Regular Plain-Front Tailored Wide Wale Pants. For a smarter look for business casual, this tailored slimmer fit trouser of 100% combed cotton is ideal. Comes with free hemming or cuffing.
The Gap will usually have a great selection of men's corduroy pants when they stock their autumn line. You can expect them to have much more of the look of jeans, usually finely ribbed for more style and works well either dressed down or up, depending on the color.
Almost any time of year, Sierra Trading Post will have overstock clothing at great prices. You can often find designer cords and casual, rugged trousers for serious time outdoors. Prices can be well over 50% off the original. However, when you see a bargain in the right size, you have to snatch it up immediately, as they don't tend to last. It's one of the best places for shopping off season and you can have them send you email alerts when something you want is available in your size.
Keeping Corduroy Looking Good
Although men are not often used to fussy clothes, corduroy is something that should not be dried in a machine. In order to best maintain its shape and texture, a pair of corduroy trousers should always be taken straight out of the washing machine and hung up to dry. This will keep your cords looking great for years.
