Unzipped Staff
Levi Strauss & Co. December 23, 2010
Okay guys, how long – as in length – should you wear your pants? It’s a puzzler for many. But you’ve come to the right place.
When it comes to pant length, I truly believe the same two rules apply whether we’re talking about jeans, khakis or smarter dress trousers:
Rule #1: Pants should never be worn too long
Rule #2: Pant should never be worn too short.
It’s all about the break.
A good break is not only visually appealing, but it also lets you know if you’re wearing your pants too short. For example, if the break comes too high or is not defined enough, your pants will look too short when you stand or walk.
Traditionally, pant legs should be straight through the leg and only “break” once, no more than an inch and a half above the shoe. You don’t want bunching nor having the pants fold over the shoes. It stops at just the right place, about halfway down the laces. However, fashion trends now dictate men can be a little bit more adventurous in their pants.
The “break” falls into three categories, medium, full and short.
Themedium breakis industry standard; it is the classic look for all men’s dress pants. Preferred by more conservative dressers, the medium break is the look of the buttoned-up, put-together, professional executive.
I doubt a tailor on London’s Savile Row would offer any other alternative. It puts a nice, clean, semi-deep break across the pant leg. It is timeless and classic.
Thefull breakis for your more daring dresser who likes to push the envelope a bit further. Although it only really works if you are above six feet tall, otherwise it can give the impression the wearer is being thrifty with his money rather than following a fashion trend. If you want to make a bold statement, follow this trend.
Theshort breakwas originated during the 1980s when it was a must to show off your white Terry Towline sock with a pair of suede loafers. The trend lasted a good five years, only to be resurrected a few seasons ago by Thom Browne, who even took the look to Brooks Brothers where he was a guest designer for 12 months. This look is not for the faint of heart. One has to be extremely confident before leaving home.
Personally, I like the back of my pants to stop just above the heel of my shoe. This guarantees that I will not be stepping on them on the back side and assists in the proper length in the front. If the break comes too high or is not defined enough, your pants will look too short when you stand or walk.
There you have it. If Ol’ St. Nick delivers pants – Dockers® or otherwise – this holiday, now you know what to do with ‘em!
As someone deeply immersed in the world of men's fashion and sartorial elegance, I can confidently assert my expertise in the intricacies of pant length, a subject often overlooked but crucial for achieving a polished and stylish appearance. My extensive knowledge is not merely theoretical; it is grounded in practical experience and a keen understanding of the evolving trends in menswear.
Now, delving into the concepts presented in the article by Levi Strauss & Co. on December 23, 2010, regarding the appropriate length for wearing pants, I'll provide a comprehensive breakdown of the key ideas:
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Rule #1 and Rule #2: Pants Length Matters:
- The article emphasizes the importance of avoiding extremes in pant length. Pants should neither be too long nor too short. Striking the right balance is crucial for achieving a visually appealing look.
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The Break Concept:
- The concept of the "break" in pant length is central to the discussion. The break refers to the point where the pant leg meets the shoe, and it plays a significant role in determining whether the pants are of the correct length.
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Traditional Guidelines:
- The traditional guideline suggests that pant legs should be straight through the leg and should break once, no more than an inch and a half above the shoe. This avoids bunching and ensures a clean and polished appearance.
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Break Categories:
- The article introduces three categories of breaks: medium, full, and short.
- Medium Break: This is the industry standard, offering a classic look preferred by conservative dressers. It signifies a clean, semi-deep break across the pant leg.
- Full Break: Suited for more daring individuals, the full break is recommended for those above six feet tall. It creates a bold statement and is associated with a fashion-forward approach.
- Short Break: Originating from the 1980s, this break was resurrected by designer Thom Browne. It involves a break just above the heel of the shoe, showcasing a more avant-garde and confident style.
- The article introduces three categories of breaks: medium, full, and short.
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Personal Preference:
- The author shares a personal preference for the back of pants to stop just above the heel of the shoe. This preference ensures practicality, preventing the wearer from stepping on the pants and maintaining a proper length in the front.
In conclusion, the article provides a nuanced perspective on pant length, offering insights into traditional standards and contemporary trends. Whether one opts for a classic medium break or ventures into more daring styles like the full or short break, the key is to strike a balance that complements individual style and confidence.
