Trouser and Pant Fitting Tips

Top 8 Tips to Proper Trouser Fit

• The waistband of your pants should be worn as near to the natural waistline as possible. If the trousers are worn too low then the crotch will hang too low. In addition the pant legs will not have the right fit and may appear baggy and sloppy.


• The pant's waistband should lie flat against the body. It the waistband curls up then this is usually a sign the the waistband is cut too tightly - maybe some incentive to loose a few pounds.


• Some trousers have ironed creases. Make sure that these creases are always accentuated by hanging the trousers the right way - alongside the crease. The crease should run towards the center of the shoes. Should the pant creases not fall down straight then this is usually a sign that the trousers are cut too tightly at the legs and the butt.


• For those trousers that have turn-up cuffs make sure they fall over the show with no more than one break. No socks should be visible when standing. It is OK for the cuffs to hang slightly over the back of the shoe but should never touch the ground.


• If your trousers have belt loops then never go without wearing a belt. Most bespoke suits do not have belt loops since they are made to measure. Instead the trousers are adjusted by inner elastic straps.


• Straight and slated pockets should always lie flat and not bulge out - a sight that the trousers are too small at the upper leg and buttock area.


• Make sure that the pant style matches the rest of your outfit. Most important here are whether or not to choose pleated or non-pleated pants. Pleated pants are common for Italian cut suits and look excellent with modern 3 button suit jackets as well as with pin striped patterned fabrics. Non-pleated pants, known as the British cut, look great with blazer jackets, double-breasted jackets, as well as with 2-button jacket styles. For men with a larger waistline pleated pants may be preferable as they will provide additional comfort and movement.


• The length of the trousers should be just long enough to cover your shoes and conceal your calfs and ankles when standing. When seated it is acceptable to show 2-4 inches of socks but never skin. For more tips you may also want to read our article on Matching Socks.