A Pair of Pleated Pants Will Make Your Summer Better

Somsack Sikhounmuong of Alex Mill wearing pleated chinos

A Pair of
Pleated Pants Will Make Your Summer Better

Today's coolest pants
are roomy and relaxed

Somsack Sikhounmuong, design director of Alex Mill, wearing the brand's standard pleated chinos.

Pleated pants aren't new. But what in menswear really is? Trousers with those little pin tucks at the waist have been around seemingly forever, but for the past decade or so they were considered pretty uncool. And that's because pleated pants tend to be a bit roomier, which was the opposite of the everything-slim-fit era. But now, with relaxed silhouettes and baggier cuts being in fashion, it's time to experiment with a pair. Because it feels really fresh right now. Showing up in a pair of pleated pants is an unexpected move, which has the power to take your style to the next level.

Just know this: these are not the frumpy khakis your middle school teach wore that fit him like a rumpled tent. Today's best versions are cut to hang just so, adding a touch of volume and ease of movement, which comes in handy this time of year. What's more, they can be very flattering since they instantly convey a laid back sensibility while still looking put-together and polished. Pair them with anything you're wearing this summer—from camp collar shirts and slide sandals to tie-dyed tees and your favorite sneakers.

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The Best
Pleated Pants of 2019

Cut from a breathable, light-weight Italian cotton with an elasticated waist for ultimate comfort.

Joyce, $185

Alex Mill The Standard Pleated Pant

Alex Mill, $115

J.Crew Double-Pleated Pant

J.Crew, $79.50 / $39.99

Folk Assembly Tapered Pleated Pant

Folk, $140

Styling Tip:

Cuff your pleated trousers

Consider cuffing your pleated pants. The turn-ups create a gentle taper and prevent a slightly fuller pant from visually swallowing you up.

Unis Davis Vintage Pleated Pant

Unis, $198

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