Guys, we get it: Bright pants can seem a bit intimidating at first. But it IS possible to expand your wardrobe horizons beyond the usual blah navy and khaki trousers. Follow our tips to curate a collection of colored pants, and you’ll have Washington’s fashion bloggers begging to feature you in their next post.
Choose a hue: Start by selecting a color that suits your style (inspired by your kickball team’s jersey, or your alma mater’s insignia, perhaps), then tone it down a couple of shades.
Fade out: Fortunately for color-shy guys, washed-out and faded hues have largely replaced the vibrant shades that dominated prior seasons. Go for a version with an already-lived-in look, as though it’s been through the wash several times over. The fade makes for an easier transition from neutrals to bolder colors such as raspberry or cantaloupe. (Yes, raspberry and cantaloupe. You can do it, we promise.)
Fit matters: Whatever the hue, as always, make sure to look for a
modern, tailored fit, with either a straight or slim cut depending on
your build and comfort level.
Build your palette: Already
color-savvy? There’s always room for a few more hues. Just wedge ’em
into your closet, right between the salmon and purple pairs.
Ready to get started? Here are a few of our favorite colors and styles (pictured above):
Chino
pants in blue glass, $84.98 at Kenneth Cole; green jeans, $194 at
Closed; Slim
gabardine trousers in raspberry, $600 at Brunello Cucinelli; Gucci cotton-piqué trousers in mustard, $740 at Mr. Porter; A|X distressed pants in light canteloupe, $98 at Armani
Exchange.
