Yes, You Can Pull Off Alex Mill's Pleated Pants (2024)

Only a handful of years ago, pleated pants might’ve triggered flashbacks to the fits your dad wore to the “nice” restaurant in town. They shouldn’t. For a few seasons now, nearly all of the raddest trousers we’ve spotlighted here have been gloriously pleated, and frankly, we’re glad to have them back in our lives. 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. Naturally, aggressively-pleated designer versions abound. But if you’re looking to ease into the burgeoning pleats resurgence, Alex Mill’s aptly named standard chino is the pair to start with.

Alex Mill’s whole MO centers around making unfussy menswear you’ll want to hold onto for the long run. We’re talking worn-in Oxford-cloth button-ups, washed pocket tees, and an especially strong range of overshirts that take all the effort out of getting dressed. None of it will help you go viral on TikTok, exactly, but the whole range will invite genuine “Where’d you get those?” comments from everyone at your next after-hours function.

The brand’s pleated pants deliver on that premise to a T. For starters, unlike the triple-pleated poly-blend behemoths ran into the ground in the late ‘90s, Alex Mill’s riff on the style only incorporates a single pleat. They also come in all the colors you know and love (khaki, olive, navy, black) and boast a tapered fit that’s generous by the waist before slimming down to something more like a straight-fit at the ankle. Plus, they’re made with a hint of stretch for added flexibility and are designed with the gentlest of crops so you don’t have to do any post-purchase tailoring—meaning they’ll sync up seamlessly with your favorite high-tops fresh out of the box.

I’m 5’9” and blessed with the thighs of an NFL running back, so I was surprised at how good these pants looked on me without doing a damn thing to them. (My height teeters on the cutoff between the brand’s regular and longer length, and the former fit me perfectly.) As many other sturdy dudes can attest to, pants billed as slim-fit often end up skintight, and ones designed to be big and baggy do nothing but make me look short and stocky. (Or, y'know, shorter and stockier.) But the pleats here—in tandem with the extra fabric gusseting by the crotch—help these chinos feel blessedly comfortable, while the slight taper works to streamline my overall silhouette. If you need proof that they also look good on slim, tall dudes—spoiler alert: most clothes do—don’t take my word for it: Ryan Reynolds wore the same pair a few weeks back and effortlessly freaked ‘em to their full potential.

If you’ve been a flat-front loyalist for the last few years, we don’t blame you. (Alex Mill sells a non-pleated version of the style for that exact reason.) But if you’re finally ready to see what all the hullabaloo is about, these are the pants you’ve been searching for. At $135 a pop they’re not a bargain bin deal, but when you start wearing ‘em every day—and trust us, you will—it’s hard to argue with the ROI.

Yes, You Can Pull Off Alex Mill's Pleated Pants (3)

Alex Mill Standard Pleated Pant

Yes, You Can Pull Off Alex Mill's Pleated Pants (4)

Alex Mill Standard Pleated Pant

Yes, You Can Pull Off Alex Mill's Pleated Pants (2024)

FAQs

What does in pleated pants mean? ›

What are pleated pants? Pleated pants have folds or pleats along the waist, towards the front and the different types can define a trouser formal or informal. The leg of the trousers is usually well tapered towards the ankles and they can be with cropped ankles or traditional hem lengths.

Are pleated pants in style 2023 for men? ›

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…

What year did pleated pants go out of style? ›

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.

Why pleated pants are better? ›

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.

Does anyone wear pleated pants anymore? ›

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.

What body type should wear pleated pants? ›

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.

What are the pants trends for fall 2023? ›

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.

What is out of style for 2023? ›

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.

Why did pleated pants go out of style? ›

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.

Are pleated pants making a comeback? ›

Yes, Pleated Pants Are Really Back—and They're More Stylish Than Ever.

When were pleated pants popular for men? ›

Today's take on pleated pants has little resemblance to the pants men wore in the '80s. Back then, pleats were popular as middle-manager garb. By the mid-'90s, flat-front trousers became the norm.

What are the different types of pleated pants men? ›

Types of Pleated Trousers
  • Forward pleats. These feature distinctive seams running down the front of the pants, and the pleat is easy to spot.
  • Reverse pleats. Pants with reverse pleats feature the pleat at the base of the seat.
  • Modern pleats. These are closer to the front-facing style than the reverse style.
Mar 10, 2021

Should you size up pleated pants? ›

Whether you are choosing pleated or flat-front pants, make sure you get the right size. If you get a bigger size, pleated pants will make you look sloppier and baggier. Similarly, flat-front pants also would not fit right to your waist. On the same note, a smaller size will make you feel even more uncomfortable.

Do pleated pants need to be cuffed? ›

If you are wearing pants with pleats, you need to have a cuff on your pants; the weight of the cuff will hold the pleats in place. But, if you are sporting flat-front pants, you can choose cuff or no cuff, depending on your preference.

Do pleated pants hide belly fat? ›

Wrong pleats

Chi explained: "If your pleated pants are facing inwards that's not flattering because they actually create more bulk in your stomach and make your tummy look even bigger. "Instead, look for the pleats that face outwards, these will conceal your stomach and make you look slimmer."

Are pleats timeless? ›

Pleated fabric is a versatile and timeless material that can be used for a wide range of applications, including clothing, home decor, and even automotive upholstery. It is often used in formal wear, such as dresses, skirts, and slacks, as well as in home furnishings, such as curtains and draperies.

What do you wear with pleated? ›

How to Style a Pleated Skirt: 5 Daytime Looks
  • Create a monochromatic look. Match your skirt with your top for a chic monochrome outfit. ...
  • Layer with a pullover sweater. ...
  • Tuck in a T-shirt. ...
  • Throw on a blazer. ...
  • Wear with a button-down shirt.
Mar 30, 2022

What body type looks good in a pleated skirt? ›

A pleated skirt is an ideal garment for balancing the upper and lower parts of your body, as pleats add volume. This is why this type of skirt really suits women with an inverted triangle body, i.e. with broad shoulders that are wider than the hips.

What body type looks good in wide leg pants? ›

Wide-leg jeans are great for those with rectangle or triangle body shapes; the exaggerated cut adds just a bit oomph to your straight, slim legs. And if you're short, a cropped pair with a high-rise can (seemingly) give you a boost in height.

What is the color of the fall 2023? ›

For Fall 2023, the company predicts bold hues like Rose Violet (a red-tinged fuchsia), Red Orange (a vibrant, fiery orange), Red Dahlia (a deep red), High Visibility (an almost-neon yellow), Kohlrabi (a playful, vivid green) and Viva Magenta (the 2023 Color of the Year) will take over our wardrobes, per WWD.

What pants are in fashion 2023? ›

Cargo Pants, Baggy Jeans and Other Denim Trends You'll Be Seeing in 2023 | Teen Vogue. Composite: Getty Images.

Are skinny jeans coming back in 2023? ›

Sorry, Gen Z: Skinny Jeans Are Officially Back

But three-quarters of the way through Fashion Month Fall/Winter 2023, it seems the pendulum is swinging back.

What is the color of the year for 2023? ›

The Pantone Color Institute named Viva Magenta as its official color of the year for 2023 for its joyous yet powerful nature. A red with subtle notes of purple, magenta flawlessly complements many different color palettes from those on the richer, jewel-tone side of the spectrum to even a lighter, earthy palette.

Will leggings be in style in 2023? ›

Leggings Are Officially Runway Approved—5 Trends We're Eyeing for 2023. There was once a time when practically no one I knew left the house without wearing a pair of leggings.

What is the trend in socks 2023? ›

Raw, Real & Recycled Fibers. Authenticity is in for 2023. In sock terms, this means natural fibers like wool and cotton, plus recycled materials that give new life to old textiles.

What does double pleated pants mean? ›

As the name suggests, the Double Pleats option adds two pleats to each side of the front of the trousers. Double Pleats are a more dramatic way to add extra comfort to your trousers, as they draw more attention to the lap area in addition to adding more room there.

When did pleats become popular? ›

During the 15th and 16th centuries, this form of pleating was popular in the garments of men and women.

When did men stop wearing dresses? ›

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.

When did pants become masculine? ›

By 1820 trousers as they are known today had come into general use among men. Since then they have been the basic style of dress for men, varying from the narrow cut to the extremely wide Oxford bags of 1924. Why Do Jeans Have That Tiny Pocket? Within Western society, trousers were long regarded as masculine apparel.

Who invented pleated pants? ›

Issey Miyake, Japanese designer who invented iconic Pleats Please, has died. The inventor of an immediately identifiable style with a taste for bright colors and pleated fabrics, the Japanese designer left a mark on the history of fashion in the second part of the 20th century.

Should big guys wear pleated or flat front pants? ›

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.

Should skinny guys wear pleated pants? ›

Traditionally, pleats are recommended for thicker body types. 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.

Should short men wear pleated pants? ›

It's best to choose a plain hem on your pants to give you a longer leg line. 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.

What is the most flattering length for pants? ›

As with skirts, it is most flattering to hem your pants to stop at the narrowest part of your ankle. That means if your pants stop mid-ankle bone they will make your ankles look thicker than they are.

How do you tell if pants are too big or too small? ›

How to Tell if Your Pants are Too Big
  1. Wearing a Belt as More Than an Accessory. First it was the suspenders, and then it was the belt. ...
  2. Slipping Out of Them Without a Second Thought. ...
  3. Bunching Your Pants at the Ankle. ...
  4. Gapping at the Waist. ...
  5. Constantly Adjusting Your Pants.
May 16, 2022

Are pleats flattering for plus size? ›

Do what you feel is right for you. With that being said there is absolutely no reason to shy away from wearing pleated skirts even if you have a big tummy. Here are a couple of tips that have worked for me. Pleat placement is a key factor but not a deal-breaker.

What pants to wear for chubby? ›

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.

What pants are best for flabby belly? ›

Choose mid-rise or high-rise jeans for the most flattering cut. Mid-rise and high-rise jeans help to cover your belly. These jeans are the most flattering shape if you have concerns about your tummy.

What pants make your tummy look smaller? ›

Wear leggings or skinnies with longer, draped or asymmetrical tops. Leggings or stretchy pants that tuck in the tummy will be your best friend. They will fit comfortably around your belly and tuck it in a bit. Also, with so many wonderful tunics and long tops to choose from, you will look fabulous.

What is the difference between pleated and non pleated pants? ›

Pleats are folds of fabric stitched to the pants right below the waistband. The pleats are added to make sure that your legs can breathe with ease while accommodating your weight. Therefore, pleated pants offer more room for movement, especially among men with a large physique.

What is the difference between pleated and flat front? ›

Differences between pleated and flat front pants

In flat front pants material lies flat. Pleated pants are worn on the waist, just above your hip bone. This also means that pleated pants have a higher rise. Flat front pants are worn bit lower, on your hips, making them slim looking and better fitting.

What is pleated in clothing? ›

Pleats are a fold or doubling of fabric that is pressed, ironed or creased into place. (Pleats that are sewn into place are called tucks). There are many varieties, but the side and box pleat are the most common, although they can be accordion, cartridge, circular, curtain, draped, fluted, Fortuny or French.

Are pleated pants coming back into style? ›

Yes, Pleated Pants Are Really Back—and They're More Stylish Than Ever.

How should pleated pants fit woman? ›

Go for a looser fit.

If between sizes, when shopping for pleated trousers it's best to go for the looser, larger size to avoid a tight fit that can cause the pleats to pull apart. You want the pleats to fall flat.

What are the three types of pleats? ›

So given that they p[rovide pleated fabric to an international client base we can assume that these are the common pleat styles you'll be using as a designer. These are: Flat Pleats Straight. Flat Pleats Flared.

What are the three basic pleats? ›

The three most basic types of pleats are knife pleats, box pleats, and inverted box pleats.

Do pleats on pants make you look bigger? ›

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.

Do men still wear pleated pants with cuffs? ›

Men with a lean and tall body type, it's your time to be in the limelight with cuffs on pleated pants. It'll instantly accentuate your proportions and bring in a healthy body-to-torso balance. Besides, it's a laid-back approach to stand out in the crowd, since they're just getting into a trend nowadays.

What are the benefits of pleats? ›

The function of pleats is to create greater room around the tops of trousers, yet have that space collapse when not required, keeping the silhouette sharp and clean. They are particularly useful for those that use their pockets often, as this puts strain on the area.

Do pleated clothes stay pleated? ›

Wear after wear, the material will maintain this pleated shape dramatically changes due to wrinkling, improper ironing, or physical damage. For instance, some pleated skirts must skip the washing machine because the pleating will reheat and lose shape.

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