Making Khakis Cool - Yes, it's possible!
I believe in the classics. I embrace a traditional, tailored, timeless style. The khaki pant is a classic…but it’s often difficult to make this age-old trouser look cool. What is khaki? According to Merriam-Webster it's a "dull, yellowish-brown cloth made usually of cotton or wool and used especially for military uniforms; commonly pants"…sounds uber chic, huh?
I’ve worn khakis since high school. I've always appreciated their utilitarian vibe and durability. As a teen in the eighties, khakis were readily accepted as a key piece in a preppy-inspired wardrobe.
Over the years, khakis began to get a really bum rap. Nerdy, stiff, masculine and unflattering…not the look sought after by most hip women.
I want to defend khaki pants!
There are ways to wear them without slipping over to the un-stylish dark side.
Here’s how…
Wear them with white or black- Clean, modern and sophisticated.
Choose your version- tailored and slim or slouchy and distressed.
Either can work; just pick the shape most flattering to your body and complementary to the rest of your wardrobe.
Elevate them- Think J Crew. Add a fancy necklace and some great heels. Khakis go on dates and out to dinner, beautifully.
Add light blue- Chambray or powder blue oxford cloth...gorgeous with khaki! So fresh and classic.
Dress 'em down- Lazy, slouchy, boyfriend vibe. Pull on a favorite conversation tee or sweatshirt… with a stylish pair of kicks.
Farmers’ Market? Coffee Shop? Yes!
Handle the hem- Cuff or roll the bottom to keep the look modern and youthful. Show some ankle!
Pick your best color- Khaki pants come in a variety of similar shades. Some are more brown, others stone-like and some almost white…choose a pair that will coordinate well with the colors in your wardrobe. Regarding khaki, seems most women have a strong preference for one particular hue.
Find yours.
If you already own a pair of khakis...dig them out! Play around with some new ways to wear them and go rock those classic pants!
Need a pair?
Easy. Khakis are available almost everywhere at every price point.
My current favorite is the Pilcro Chino from Anthropologie. They wash and wear beautifully. Great fit. Super comfortable.
Also check out J Crew, Banana Republic, Old Navy, H&M, Gap, Target...the list goes on.
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Thanks so much for reading.
xo Kristen