Trousers are a staple of any man’s wardrobe. They became popular in Western European culture in the 16th century (having appeared several times before without quite taking off), and have increasingly gained predominance since then.
Even in modern times, men’s trousers have changed – as recently as the 1940s, trousers had no waist sizes and alterations made through the leg length. As a result, they were worn high on the waist, above the stomach, mostly by the use of braces – meaning trousers were very baggy.
Today, the many styles and cuts of trousers available can be overwhelming - from moleskin trousers to wool trousers, corduroy to denim. Here are a couple of tips on choosing the right pair of trousers:
Trouser length should cover the socks and slightly drape over the shoes. For trousers, men's belts are the most popular way to hold them up, though braces made a brief resurgence during the 1980s.
Waist measurements should be taken at the top of the hip bone. Make sure you’re standing straight, and don’t pull too tight to allow for eating and sitting room. If you have large hips in relation to your waist, it may be advisable to size up.
Choose trousers that flatter your body shape. Slim men can look great in a pair of trousers with front pleats that fit perfectly on the hips. Larger men should aim for wide legs with flat fronts to make the leg appear longer. Boot cut trousers are great for shorter men.