Dressing to impress is always a good idea no matter what the occasion. Whether it's a work event, a family party, or a friend's wedding, you will never be sorry you took the time to look and feel your best.
Dress pants are the base of your entire ensemble, so it's important to get them right. A pair of bad pants can steer your whole look sideways and ruin the look you tried to put together.
There is so much to consider when it comes to dress pants, from the way they fit you to their length and everything between. How do you know where to start when you finally go out and start shopping for the best dress pants?
At Hansen's, we're committed to providing clothes with the highest level of clothing craftsmanship and details in mind. Hansen's was built by three generations of tailors and our knowledge of fabric and materials is reflected in the quality items we sell.
Read on to find out everything you need to know before you buy your next pair of dress pants.
The Fit
The first thing to consider, and the best place to start, is how you want your new dress pants to fit on your body.
Do you prefer a more fitted style that clings closer to your body? Or do you prefer something that fits a bit looser?
It all comes down to the fit once you are wearing the pants. If you're unsure of what kind of fit looks best on you, the best thing you can do is to try each style on. Once you see how they look on your body you'll be able to better judge which fit works best for you.
Typically you will choose between an extra slim fit, a slim fit, a classic fit, and a wide-legged fit. It's best to try on any styles you're curious about before you make any decisions.
Even if you buy your clothes online, it can be helpful to visit a department store just to try on the different styles of pants available to you.
A slim fit typically offers a more modern look to your outfit. A slim fit has been seen more and more in recent years as celebrities and influencers have embraced the look.
Slim dress pants are just one of the ways that men's fashion is changing and evolving. There is a lot to be gained by embracing this look.
On the other hand, a wide-legged look is popular and gaining steam at the moment as well. A wide-legged look can also be worn in a more casual style, you can easily dress it up or down.
To Pleat or Not to Pleat
Dress pants come in both pleated and flat styles. It may seem simple, but a pleat is more than just a crease at the front of each pant leg.
Pants with pleats at the front oftentimes provide more room and material in the waist and upper leg areas.
This can be useful if you have wider hips or thighs or have an athletic body type. The pleat can also help balance your look if you are heavier top or have broad shoulders. They are generally more comfortable and roomier and help balance a large stomach or backside.
Slimmer men will want to make sure that their pleated dress pants don't fit them too loosely as it can make them look like they're swimming in the material.
Men who are concerned with having ample room but don't necessarily want a wide-legged style may benefit from a pleated dress pants style.
A flat style of dress pants is more fitted than the pleated style. The silhouette of these pants is cleaner and sharper and looks great when paired with other modern trends.
Of the two, they are the more restricting style and may be harder to move around in as they limit movement more.
Pleated dress pants are the most commonly used with suits, but either style will look sharp with a good dress jacket. The most important thing to consider between these two styles is how comfortable you are in them.
Fabric Makes a Difference
When it comes to men's dress pants, the fabric can make or break your outfit. The right fabric can be flattering, comfortable, and modern. The wrong fabric can gather in the wrong places, be itchy, or look sloppy.
Wool is a common fabric used for men's dress pants. Wool is soft, keeps you warm, and is a breathable material. Wool is even hypoallergenic so those with sensitive skin issues can wear them without worrying about irritating their skin.
It's also a very durable material and can be either lightweight or a bit heavier. Wool dress pants should be dry cleaned and may take more care than your average pair of pants.
Cotton and cotton blends are always a good choice as well. Cotton is also a breathable material and will feel lightweight while you wear it. Cotton is soft and comfortable and can be worn in all kinds of temperatures and weather.
Cotton is also easy to clean and easy to upkeep.
Rayon is another material to consider. Rayon is lightweight and a good choice for hot weather or a humid climate. This material should also be dry cleaned and tends to wrinkle easily, so a steamer might be needed to keep your rayon pants looking sharp.
Polyester blend pants are another option. Pants made with a polyester blend are lightweight, durable, and are wrinkle-resistant, which means less work for you. Pants made with this material can be laundered at home.
Buy Your Next Favorite Pair of Dress Pants Today
Now that you know what to look for when you shop for dress pants it's time to put your knowledge to good use.
At Hansen's, we offer the best and most flattering styles for the man who wants to look and feel good. Browse our selection of dress pants and pick your next pair of perfect dress pants today.