You may have noticed that khakis and cargo trousers are making a comeback this year and seem to be competing with chinos. But if we’re being truthful, we’re not sure a ton of people know the difference between chinos and khakis. Add khaki chinos to the mix, and we’re all pretty much confused! And even though the differences between khakis and chinos may seem insignificant to you, the small but subtle differences can quickly make an outfit top or flop. That's why at SANVT we're going to explain how khakis and chinos differ, and how to wear them best.
It’s not uncommon to see chinos and khakis used interchangeably, despite them being two different types of trousers. Don’t worry if you’re confused – you certainly aren’t the only one. Even fashion brands keep confusing the two terms. The reason for this is that the chino evolved from the khaki pants – as a more elegant alternative. So if there should be one notable difference, it's that chinos are clearly dressier than khakis. Any other differences, you ask? Let’s take a look at the other key distinctions between khakis and chinos.
At a glance, here are the 5 most important differences between khakis and chinos:
- Cut: chinos have a tapered leg and fitted cut, while khakis have a straight or pleated leg and a looser fit.
- Fabric: chinos are made of a light, breathable, and slightly shiny cotton twill, while khakis use a heavy, thick cotton twill.
- Seams: chinos have hidden seams and pockets for a more sophisticated look, while khakis have visible seams and side pockets.
- Colour: chinos come in many different colours, while khakis are only available in khaki, brown, or beige.
- Occasion: chinos are suitable for business casual meetings, formal occasions, and sometimes even as a substitute for suit trousers. Khakis are only suitable as casual wear.
While both trouser styles have their place, at SANVT we believe chinos offer the perfect balance between timeless style, versatility and everyday comfort.
What are Khakis?
Khaki trousers are made of a heavier cotton fabric and have a looser, straight cut. The seams of khakis are visible, similar to jeans, which gives the trousers a nonchalant look. Khakis come in muted earth tones, such as khaki, brown, or beige, and often with visible pockets, side pockets, and zips. This makes khakis extremely comfortable and functional but not quite as fashionably sophisticated as chinos. Khakis are therefore more ideal for hiking, barbecues, and leisure, but not for more formal occasions.
What are Chinos?
Chinos are made from a finer cotton twill that typically has a subtle matte sheen, giving them a more refined appearance than the heavier, rougher fabric used for traditional khakis. With hidden seams, discreet pockets and a tailored fit, chinos strike the perfect balance between smart and casual, making them suitable for everything from business casual to relaxed weekends.
Thanks to their versatility, chinos have become a modern wardrobe essential. Whether paired with a crisp Oxford shirt for the office or a simple white t-shirt and sneakers for a minimalist everyday look, they adapt effortlessly to a wide range of occasions. Want to learn more about what makes chinos so versatile? Read our complete guide to perfect chinos.
At SANVT, we've taken this timeless staple one step further. Our perfect chino combines a clean, tailored silhouette with exceptional comfort, thanks to a premium 290 GSM fabric made from 97% stretch cotton and 3% elastane. The high cotton content provides excellent breathability and temperature regulation, while the added stretch allows for unrestricted movement throughout the day. It is available in beige, ivory, olive green, grey, dark brown, navy, black and khaki.
If you prefer a more relaxed silhouette, our relaxed chino offers the same premium fabric and comfort in a roomier fit. Available in black, ivory, navy and olive green, it delivers a more casual look without compromising on versatility.
For the colder months, our heavyweight chino is the ideal choice. Crafted from a durable heavyweight fabric, it provides extra warmth and structure while maintaining the clean, timeless aesthetic that makes chinos so versatile throughout autumn and winter.
Khaki chinos: The best of both worlds
Yes, you heard that right: besides chinos and khakis, there are also khaki chinos. Because khaki is not just a trouser model but also a colour. So if you want a pair of khaki trousers without sacrificing any refinement, you could add our khaki chinos to your eco-conscious wardrobe. And like all our products, these chinos are produced in a fair and sustainable way, from exceptional fabrics.
SANVT's Perfect Chino in Khaki - the best of both worlds
Khakis vs. chinos: summing up
As you can see, there are subtle yet crucial differences between khakis and chinos that declare chinos a timeless classic and rather outshine khakis. Therefore, we at SANVT believe that classic cargo-style khakis will remain more of a short-lived trend, much like they were in the 2000s. Chinos, on the other hand, will stay with us for many decades to come. And since chinos are now also available in khaki, we fortunately no longer have to rack our brains over which of the two trouser styles is more appropriate. With our khaki chino, you've got the best of both in one pair of trousers.
Do you seek the more laid-back style of khakis but with the sophistication of chinos? Then have a peek at our relaxed chino, which retains the urbanity of our smart chino but with a roomier fit.
And if you like the khaki trousers for their heavier, sturdier fabric, check out our classy, heavy chinos in dark blue. With a 420 g/m2 stretch fabric made from premium organic cotton, these trousers are ideal for autumn and winter.