For some, the very mention of pleated pants is enough to evoke flashbacks to the worst menswear fashions of the ‘80s and ‘90s. With current trends favoring flat-front cuts, the question of whether you should wear pleats today is often answered with a resounding “no.” It’s time we shed our existing negative perceptions and rethink pleated pants; you can definitely wear them, and we’ll tell you how.
Table of Contents
Outfit Rundown
What are Pleated Pants?
In the world of menswear, pleats can be defined as gathered folds of fabric located below the waist, in the area known as the rise, or simply the front, on a pair of trousers. On flat-front trousers, as the name states, the fabric in this area is smooth. Pleats can either be forward facing, in which the folded fabric points inward, toward the fly of your pants, or reverse—pointing in the direction of the pockets. The British style generally favors inward-facing pleats whereas pants in a more Italian, specifically, Neapolitan style usually face outward. In terms of which is better, forward pleats usually receive less criticism as they tend to remain flat, while outward ones may open and stay open, resulting in ballooning fabric. The number of pleats that you have can vary: usually, one or two, though some men have experimented with three and even four pleats.
Why Do Pleated Pants Have a Bad Reputation?
The short answer is that they are simply out of style. In line with the material excesses of the ‘80s, pants from that decade often displayed an excess of material in the form of pleats. Because pleats gather extra fabric in the rise area of a pair of pants, below the waist, if too much fabric is added there it can result in unsightly ballooning in the groin area. Some poor trouser designs also expanded this concept, rather literally, to create more room throughout the pants, especially in the legs. This resulted in a baggy, voluminous garment stereotypically identified with middle-management drones wearing big khakis on casual Friday.
However, if you look at menswear fashion illustrations, advertisem*nts or actors from earlier eras, you’ll often see fuller garments and an abundance of pleats that make them look sharp. Cary Grant wore suits with pleated pants as did Sean Connery in the role of James Bond. Thus, the disdain for pleated pants nowadays stems from the overall preference for slimmer and more fitted looks rather than anything inherently wrong with pleats.
Some of the scorn is a matter of generational bias. Pleated pants are weighed down with the connotations of being traditional and stodgy, what your parents or grandparents wore, the garment of old men, as opposed to the youthful minimalism of slim, flat-fronted pants. Gentleman’s Gazette readers, who enjoy classic style, are less likely to reject pleated pants on the basis of traditionalism, but those who do prefer contemporary style will also find versions that appeal to them.
Pleated Pants Today
Some of the issues of past decades have been solved simply by putting pleats on an otherwise more close-fitting pair of trousers, and beginning around 2016 we began seeing these on the designer menswear runways. However, regardless of the vagaries and vacillations of fashion from decade to decade or year to year, it is always possible to find moderately cut pleated pants that are in the “Goldilocks zone”–just right–neither too slim nor too loose fitting and thus timeless. When seeking enduring style, it’s hard to go wrong, no matter your age, by taking the middle ground, just like choosing a moderate lapel and tie width instead of going too skinny or too wide.
So, Who Should Wear Pleated Pants?
Because of the extra fabric directly below the waist, those who want more comfort and ease of movement of the lower body would be wise to wear pleats. One situation that demands this is if you have some weight around your middle; pleats can help disguise this where more fitted flat-front pants would emphasize the shape of your belly. This is especially true if you wear your pants at your natural waist rather than low on your hips. The extra fabric provided by the pleats and the visual details they offer is enough to hide the size of your waistline.
In the case of Sven Raphael Schneider, he favors pleated pants for a reason that many men experience: they have thicker thighs that are simply not accommodated by modern, slimmer cuts.
On the other hand, it’s usually said that if you have a thin build, pleated pants are a risky proposition because wearing them will give you a baggy, unkempt appearance. However, this is only true if you go for cheap, mass-manufactured pleated pants that are loose all over. If you are lean and like pleats, you can pull off the look by emulating the Italians, especially the style of Naples. They wear pleated trousers with well-fitted legs and often in lighter weight fabrics that avoid a heavy, blousy look. The key is, again, to ensure the cut of the pants is not too full. Otherwise, the result will, at best, give you a definitively retro appearance or, at worst, make you look clownish.
If you frequent menswear forums and comment pages online, you’re likely to encounter the complaints of men who have developed large thighs or seats from working out and are trying to find well-fitting trousers. A simple solution for these guys might be to try wearing pleated pants. The fact that this isn’t usually proposed as an option speaks to the average person’s negative bias against the style. Hopefully, we can counteract this perception.
Interestingly, pleats can be useful both if you sit for a long time and if you are highly active. Long-term sitting, besides increasing your risk of dying, can be more uncomfortable with the greater constriction of flat front pants. They eventually feel snug. On the other hand, if you have a job where you get up and down a lot and are moving about, the opening of the pleats can give you some extra mobility. Lastly, although it has been a rather taboo subject, it should also be mentioned that if you simply want more room for your privates, pleated pants will do the trick.
How to Wear Pleated Pants
In addition to choosing an appropriate overall fit, there are several things you can do when wearing pleated pants to enhance their appearance.
Start with Lighter Fabrics
To my eye, pleats look best on lighter-weight fabrics. The heavier weight of a material like flannel contributes to the sense of volume created by pleats and can lead to a more old-fashioned look. It can certainly still be done with winter-weight cloth, but proper fit is even more crucial. A cuff can also help add weight to the hem of heavier-weight pleated pants for a trimmer look.
Opt for Fewer Pleats
Single pleats on dress pants blend into and continue the crease that runs up the center of each leg. This creates a longer and sharper line than in flat front pants, where the crease is broken by the smooth rise. So, single pleats are safe, but double pleats can look more relaxed or may be required ifyour body typedemands them.
Pair Pleats with a High Rise
The contemporary style of wearing pants at the hips with a low rise is more suitable to flat-front trousers than pleated ones. The added fabric and the pleats themselves generally create a higher rise on the finished garment, which requires wearing them around your waistline. Worn in this way, they also do their job of flattering and disguising a stomach that isn’t perfectly flat.
…with or without Cuffs
A search of images online will show a roughly 50-50 divide of pleated pants with or without cuffs. The idea behind getting cuffs is that they add visual weight and emphasis at the bottom of the trousers to counterbalance the appearance of pleats at the top. Cuffs do make the pants a bit more informal and some might see them as more traditional; for a more contemporary look, omit them.
Given the potential associations of pleated pants with retro style, you’ll want to avoid a breakto look modern. A break at the bottom of your trouser legs can enforce the perception of pleated trousers as sloppy looking. Moreover, a break, as the name suggests, interrupts the continuous crease down the front of your pants legs that a pleat can give you, so if you want to emphasize that sharp look, avoid a break. Lastly, if you decide on cuffs for your pleated pants, as with any pair of cuffed trousers, the convention is to have them just touching the top of your shoe.
Combine Pleated Pants with a Jacket
If you’re cautious about pleats, the easiest way to wear them would be with a jacket, usually as the bottoms of a suit. The jacket minimizes the visibility of the pleats but lets them do their job. They’re still a feature but not too obvious, and it looks like you could very well be wearing flat-front trousers if your jacket is buttoned. With a suit, you may want to go with inward pleats, because of their association with greater formality, and no cuffs. If you are bolder and want a stronger emphasis on your pleats, I recommend observing what the Neapolitan tailors do, especially Salvatore Ambrosi. Wear them high waisted with side adjusters along with an unbuttoned sport coat to carry a sense of summer sprezzaturaor invoke a Mediterranean vibe. Alternatively, really flaunt your pleated pants by wearing them with a shirt alone, either a polo or a dress shirt with the collar unbuttoned and the sleeves rolled up.
Conclusion
Though it may be difficult to get the man on the street to choose pleated pants, those with a true appreciation of style and an interest in variety know their value. Ultimately, although pleated pants are especially suitable for specific body types, nearly any man can wear them–it’s just a matter of getting ones that fit well and trying them on yourself. Perhaps, if you don’t have them yet, you can broaden your wardrobe and expand your style.
Outfit Rundown
I’m wearing a pair of pleated pants they have outward-facing pleats and the color is simple black. My sports coat features a herringbone pattern, it’s primarily charcoal but it also picks up some green and brown tones too. The shirt is from Charles Tyrwhitt and it’s simple pink. The boutonniere picks up some of these pink tones, the tie is vintage and features a red stripe it’s primarily red but it has a multi stripe of khaki yellow, and blue. The pocket square picks up many of these same colors it’s a wool silk blend printed in England and it features a rabbit design. I’m wearing a pair of Eagle Claw cufflinks and they’re sterling silver and platinum-plated and feature a carnelian as the stone. My shoes are black and cap toed though we’d be tempted to call them Oxfords, they’re technically derby shoes because of the lacing. Finally my socks are simple black there isn’t really much else to say about them.
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Off White Rabbits on Wine Red Silk Wool Pocket Square
Since the mid-2000s, clothing has pointed emphasis on skinny or slim-fitting clothing. Pleats simply don't look good with modern, low cut, ultra-light trousers. Therefore, it's easier, cheaper, and more attractive overall to simply offer flat-fronted styles in modern slim-fit trousers.
Men's pleated pants, and pants with pleats in general, took a hit in the 80s and 90s when they were a little 'extra' and ended up firmly in the dated pile. Yet men's pleated trousers still have a role in men's fashion today and, when worn well and tailored correctly, can be rather flattering on the right body.
Menswear is making a huge step this year! We are making the change from the very slim fit that was popularized in 2012, and are now making pleated, relaxed…
Pleated pants are also the best choice for larger men and athletic types with muscular legs, both of whom stand to benefit from the spaciousness and comfortable utility that pleats provide. From the style side, pleated dress pants are a more traditional look.
Pleats were originally developed to be functional. They allow the pants to expand when you sit, which is not only more comfortable, but it also prevents issues like puckering pockets and unnecessary seam tension.
Pleats serve a functional purpose: they allow for more breathing room where it matters most. But beyond the utility, they also look particularly right in 2022, when dressing like a swagged-out octogenarian has never been cooler and appreciation for the bigger-is-better style of the '80s is at an all-time high.
By the mid-'90s, flat-front trousers became the norm. Then, in the early 2000s, the new skinny-fit look championed by the super-forward designer, Thom Browne, ended the acceptability of pleats. They were relegated to granddad fashion. For well over a decade, no man of style would wear them.
As your pleated pants are a more relaxed, loose style, to balance out your outfit, look to style them back with a more fitted top. We love a relaxed pleated trouser with a classic tank, fitted t-shirt or a long sleeve knit tucked in.
Here's an old rule: In order to determine whether or not a pair of pants should have a cuff, counting pleats is a good way to go: Dual pleated pants should always have cuffs. Single pleated pants can be worn with or without cuffs. Flat-front or no-pleat pants should not be worn with cuffs.
Are high waisted pants out of style 2023? High waist pants are out of fashion for spring 2023 – especially the carrot pants, paper bag pants and palazzo pants. And high waisted pants will be out of style for fall winter 2023/24, too. In fact, the high waist pants were not seen on the fall winter 2023/24 runways.
Cargo pants are the look of choice for 2023 with baggy legs, long hems, and maximum pocket space. While the trend has definite early '00s roots, the waists are higher than their super low-rise counterparts at the turn of millennium—which comes as welcome news to most.
If you're heavy-set, you will want to wear pleated pants because the extra room around the waist offers comfort. Plus, because they're worn slightly higher, they'll impart a slimming effect to your profile. If you're in the normal or average body type category, then you can take your pick.
This extra fabric adds width and fullness at the waistline. Pleated pants or skirts also add volume at your tummy and hip area and will automatically make you look heavier than you are.
Stick with straight-legged, medium-rise pants with no pleats. Straight-legged pants can help balance out the proportions of your legs, waist, and stomach. Pants that are as wide at the bottom as at the thigh are especially great if you have a larger midsection but smaller legs.
Yes, a tailor can take the pleats out of pants. It's pretty major surgery, though, so I would only trust it to a solid tailor, not an alterationist. For reverse pleats (those whose mouth opens to the outside), this involves removing the waistband, opening the pleat then re-cutting the side seam and pocket.
The seat of your pants should hug your posterior slightly - not squeeze it. You want to avoid making your dress pants fit like cling wrap around your butt. When you're shopping for dress pants, squat for 5 to 10 seconds to make sure you have more than enough room to maneuver without struggling.
As you hold them in place, you must iron over the arranged pleats beginning at the top of the pleat and working your way downward. For stubborn fabric, it may be necessary to pin the pleats in place. However, do not iron over the pins. Pull them out one at a time as you iron.
Pleated pants are OK if the pleats are shallow and in a short rise. Avoid regular rise pleated pants. The pleats are too deep and make you look stubby. Wear dress pants at the waist where most are designed to be worn.
It's true that tailors can take the pleats out, reconstructing pants into flat-fronts, and it is even possible for a skilled tailor to do a major overhaul on your jacket to make it look trimmer and more up to date.
Flat-front pants are worn a bit lower down the hip to create a perfect slim look.However, pleated pants are worn high up the waist because they have a higher rise. If you are skinny, flat-front pants will suit you well, but if you have a large or an athletic physique, pleated pants would be the best choice.
Pleats are also categorized into two main types: forward and reverse. Forward pleats open inwards towards the trousers' fly seam, and are associated with English tailoring. Reverse pleats open outwards towards the trousers' pockets, and are associated with Italian tailoring.
Step 3 - If you're hand washing, which is the better way forward if you're precious about your pleats, fill a basin with cool water, add a splash of detergent and gently massage the garment around in the water, equally distributing the product, and then rinse thoroughly. Step 4 - Air dry, air dry, air dry!
The first style on my list of the top spring denim trends of 2023 is cuffed denim! I love the retro vibes of this style and if you choose a pair with a high waist they are guaranteed to give a flattering silhouette.
Cuffs create a conspicuous end-point for your trousers, so if you are a tall, slender man they can make you look less gangly. They give you a little heft at the shoe line to make you look grounded. If you instead have a shorter, stockier, thicker physique, cuffs can accentuate those attributes.
Cuffed pants are often considered a mark of quality both in off the rack clothing and in clothing that is tailored. In general, cuffed pants are the dressier option for standard suits or trousers. They can even dress up more casual outfits. They are not, however, appropriate with formal pants that are part of a tuxedo.
Ankle cropped jeans are on trend in 2023. Crop-style jeans have been a popular style for years, but they've reached new heights this year. The ankle crop is one of the most popular styles right now. It's cropped at the ankle, but not too short—just enough to show off your legs and make them look longer.
Home design color trends come and go, but black will always stand the test of time, according to designers and brands at the 2023 Kitchen and Bath Industry Show. Bold, sleek and eye-catching, home designs and decor that feature black are equal parts neutral and daring.
Khaki pants are in, and it looks like they are here to stay! So, use our above style tips when confused to rock that khaki look. From graphic t-shirts to blazers, khaki pants are versatile and you can pair them with almost anything. Just make sure the colors don't clash.
The good news is that when it comes to this style dilemma, you can't go wrong. Fortunately for modern guys, both pleated and flat-front pants are in style.
In fact, the one style staple to have if you're looking to conceal a burgeoning midriff is pleated skirts or dresses. Also called plisse or knife pleats, they can cleverly draw attention away from your stomach area.
A pair of low-slung and too-tight pants. The first thing to do if you're looking to hide a muffin top—get rid of your super low-waisted jeans and try a high-waisted or mid-rise pair instead.
Skip the baggy pants – It may be tempting to hide your beer belly with baggy jeans, but trust me, a well-tailored pair of trousers and chinos can make you look good and slimmer. Avoid tight t-shirts – Choose a regular fit instead of a slim fit.
Like pears, straight-legged pants are always a good choice for a full-figured hourglass. Since an hourglass woman (and pear alike) has wider hips in general wearing pants that go all the way to the ankle – or beyond – is the best way to give the illusion of longer legs.
Wear lightweight, stylish, baggy pants as they are gender non-specific and look fabulous on both men and women. A high-quality pair of baggy pants can instantly make you look more masculine.
What kind of jeans should men with big thighs wear? The best jeans for men with big thighs are either straight-leg, bootcut, or tapered jeans, preferably with a relaxed fit.
By the mid-'90s, flat-front trousers became the norm. Then, in the early 2000s, the new skinny-fit look championed by the super-forward designer, Thom Browne, ended the acceptability of pleats. They were relegated to granddad fashion. For well over a decade, no man of style would wear them.
If you're heavy-set, you will want to wear pleated pants because the extra room around the waist offers comfort. Plus, because they're worn slightly higher, they'll impart a slimming effect to your profile.
There are many reasons why men don't wear leggings. They're afraid of looking feminine or they feel as though they're on display. Men don't realize that all these excuses keep them from being the most comfortable that they can be. There was a thread on Reddit discussing this question and one person made a great point.
The Great Male Renunciation (French: Grande Renonciation masculine) is the historical phenomenon at the end of the 18th century in which Western men stopped using brilliant or refined forms in their dress, which were left to women's clothing.
As your pleated pants are a more relaxed, loose style, to balance out your outfit, look to style them back with a more fitted top. We love a relaxed pleated trouser with a classic tank, fitted t-shirt or a long sleeve knit tucked in.
Tapered-style pants in general can be great for guys with athletic or bigger legs because they're cut a little roomier in the hips and thighs. Guys with bigger thighs will appreciate how they're tapered through the leg for a slim, modern look.
Above all else, women think that men wearing leggings are sexy. High-performance compression fabric allows you to show off your body in the most flattering, form-fitting outfit possible. Women love to see a good-looking butt on display just as much as men.
Wearing leggings is completely acceptable for guys. They are comfortable and allow a full range of movement. Above all, the material and design of the tights make them an ideal pick for physical activities such as running and hiking.
No, seriously, it's perfectly OK for men to wear leggings, regardless of their sex, gender identity, or sexual orientation. Leggings are made for both men and women, and to be honest, the way I style them, you'd be hard-pressed to tell if I'm wearing leggings made for men, or leggings made for women.
The left testicl* tends to hang lower than the right testicl* for most men due to its weight and volume. A majority of men naturally dress left since the left testicl* hangs slightly lower than the right testicl*.
This in turn made loose garments like dresses and skirts take on a feminine association, and today, most men avoid these garments for nothing more than that reason – a fear of femininity in combination with a recognition of the social norm that they should dress in ways that uphold their masculine identities.
It actually wasn't until the early 19th century that Western men stopped mixing bloomers, skirts and long shirts with their wardrobe of breeches and stockings, and adopted slim trousers as standard masculine attire .
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