Washed chinos have become a staple in men's fashion, offering a perfect blend of comfort, style, and versatility. But what exactly are washed chinos, and how can you keep them looking fresh and vibrant? In this comprehensive guide, we delve into the intricacies of washed chinos, their benefits, and essential tips to prevent fading.
The Ultimate Guide to Washed Chinos
What Are Washed Chinos?
Washed chinos are trousers consisting of a washed fabric and a twill weaving pattern. Most of them are made of cotton. The term "washed" simply means that the cotton is submerged in water during production. Chinos are available in dry or raw styles as well. Dry or raw chinos aren't made of water-soaked cotton. Rather, they are made of dry cotton.
In addition to being made of a washed fabric, washed chinos feature a twill weaving pattern. This is one of the characteristics that defines them. A twill weaving pattern means that the fabric is woven to create diagonal and parallel ridges. When viewed from afar, you typically won't be able to see these ridges. Inspecting a pair of washed chinos up close, though, will reveal its ridges. Washed chinos have a twill weaving pattern that's characterized by many diagonal and parallel ridges. Also known as ribs, they provide a unique texture that distinguishes washed chinos from other types of non-twill trousers.
Washed Chinos vs Khakis
It's important to note that washed chinos aren't the same as khakis. There are both standard khakis and washed khakis. Even washed khakis, though, are different than washed chinos.
Khakis typically don't feature the same twill weaving pattern as washed chinos. Rather, they feature a conventional weaving pattern that's devoid of the same diagonal and parallel ridges as found in washed chinos. Chinos have a twill weaving pattern, whereas khakis have an alternative and more traditional weaving pattern.
When compared to khakis, washed chinos are typically lighter. They weigh less than their khaki counterparts. And with their lightweight construction, washed chinos are more breathable. They'll allow your legs and body to breathe when worn, thus keeping you cool even when it's hot outside.
Benefits of Washed Chinos
Being that there are dozens of other types of trousers available, you might be wondering what benefits washed chinos offer. You really won't know the true benefits of washed chinos until you begin wearing them. With that said, there are several reasons to consider buying a pair.
As previously mentioned, washed chinos are lightweight. They weigh less than many other types of trousers, including khakis. Heavy trousers, of course, can be uncomfortable. If your trousers are heavy, they may restrict your ability to move and bend your body. Fortunately, this isn't a concern with washed chinos. Washed chinos are lightweight, so you can rest assured knowing that they won't restrict your movements.
Washed chinos are also protected against fading. Like all washed trousers, they are made of a water-soaked fabric, the most common of which being cotton. This process helps to protect them from future fading. You can wear washed chinos for many consecutive years without fear of them fading. This is just one more reason why they've become so popular.
Washed chinos are also versatile. In fact, they are one of the most versatile types of men's trousers on the market. Washed chinos offer the perfect blend of casual and formal attire. They are casual enough that you can wear them in your everyday outfits. At the same time, washed chinos are formal enough that you can dress them up. Wearing a pair of washed chinos with a dress shirt and suit jacket, for instance, will allow you to create a formal outfit.
Tips on Choosing Washed Chinos
While all washed chinos are made of a washed fabric and feature a twill weaving pattern, they are available in many different types. If you're going to buy a pair, you'll need to choose the right type. For starters, you should consider the color.
You can find washed chinos available in dozens of colors. Tan, as well as shades thereof, are a popular color in which washed chinos are made. With a pair of tan-colored washed chinos, you can rest assured knowing that they will match most of your garments and accessories. Tan is a universal color. Universal colors are those that flow cohesively with most other colors on the color wheel. Of course, tan isn't the only color in which washed chinos are made. Maybe you prefer black, or perhaps you want a bold color like red. Regardless, you can probably find washed chinos in your preferred color.
You should also consider the fabric when choosing washed chinos. Most washed chinos are made of cotton. Cotton is a lightweight, soft and easy-to-maintain fabric. Therefore, it's commonly used in the construction of washed chinos. With that said, some washed chinos may feature a different fabric. In addition to cotton, linen is oftentimes used to make washed chinos.
Different washed chinos have different pockets as well. All washed chinos have at least some pockets. Nonetheless, some of them have more pockets than others. The placement of these pockets can also vary. This is why it's a good idea to inspect the pocket when buying a pair of washed chinos.
Perhaps the most important thing to consider when choosing washed chinos is the size. If they don't fit, you probably won't get much use out of them. Oversized or undersized washed chinos aren't particularly comfortable, nor do they project a fashionable and stylish appearance. For the highest level of comfort and style, you need to choose washed chinos that fit properly.
Washed chinos are essentially trousers consisting of a washed fabric, such as cotton, and a twill weaving pattern. They offer many benefits. Among other things, washed chinos are lightweight, protected against fading and versatile. Just remember to choose the right type of washed chinos to take advantage of these benefits.
How to Protect New Chinos From Fading
Go With a Light Color
Light-colored chinos are less likely to fade than their dark-colored counterparts. You can find chinos in dozens of colors. Some of them feature a dark color, whereas others feature a light color. For the highest level of protection against fading, you should go with the latter type.
With a light color, your chinos will be better protected against fading. Light colors can consist of white, khaki, yellow, gray, aqua, lime green and more. Fading is the result of dye either coming out of the chino material or oxidizing. Light-colored chinos can still fade, but they fade more subtly than dark-colored chinos.
Wash in Cold Water
Always wash your chinos in cold water. Contrary to common belief, hot water isn't more effective at cleaning garments. You can wash garments in either cold or hot water, either of which will remove stains from them. In terms of fading, though, cold water is recommended.
Washing your chinos in cold water will protect them from fading. As previously mentioned, fading occurs when the dye within your chinos is released. Hot water encourages the release of dye. If you wash your jeans in hot water, they'll release more of their dye. The end result is a lighter and more faded tone. You can prevent this from happening by washing your chinos in cold water.
Use a Small Amount of Detergent
In addition to washing them in cold water, you can protect your chinos from fading by using a small amount of detergent with them. Detergent doesn't just remove stains; it can release the dye within your chinos. The more detergent that you use, the greater the risk of fading.
When washing your chinos, use a small amount of detergent to minimize the risk of fading. Most washing machines have a detergent dispenser. You can pour detergent into this dispenser rather than the drum. If you inspect the dispenser, you should see one or more lines indicating how much detergent to use. By pouring the detergent up to this line -- don't go past the line -- you can clean your chinos without causing them to fade.
Turn Inside Out When Washing
Another tip to protect your chinos from fading is to wash them inside out. In other words, turn your chinos inside out before placing them in the washing machine. It only takes a minute or two to turn your chinos inside out, but doing so can make a world of difference in their color. Your chinos will be less likely to fade if you wash them inside out.
You might be wondering how washing your chinos inside out can protect them from fading. When washed inside out, the exterior won't be exposed to the water and detergent. Rather, only the interior of your chinos will be exposed to the water and detergent.
Tumble or Line Dry
You can protect your chinos from fading by either tumble drying or line drying them. Tumble drying involves the use of a clothes dryer without any heat. Most clothes dryers have a tumble setting that will tumble the garments around to dry them. Since it doesn't use heat, it's a safe way to dry your chinos.
Line drying is an alternative drying method that you can use for your chinos. As the name suggests, it involves hanging your chinos on a line to dry. You can use either an indoor or outdoor line for this purpose. Many people line dry their garments outdoors where they generate a natural fresh smell. But you can line dry your chinos either indoors or outdoors. Just hang them on a line and leave them for about 30 minutes to one hour. After this period has passed, they should be dry.
There are other benefits associated with line drying your chinos as well. Not only will it protect them fading; line drying your chinos conserves energy. Line drying is an energy-efficient way to dry all of your garments, including chinos. It simply uses air to remove moisture.
Store in a Dark Environment
Storing your chinos out of direct sunlight can preserve their original color and protect them from fading. Sunlight is one of the leading causes of fading. It will cause the dye within your chinos to oxidize, essentially making your chinos lighter and more faded. You can still wear your chinos outdoors on sunny days, but you should consider storing them in a dark environment.
Most clothes are ideal for storing chinos and other garments. As long as there's no an open window nearby, it should offer a dark environment. You can store your chinos in a closet to protect them from fading. Of course, you can also store them in a dresser or chest of drawers. Regardless, storing your chinos in a dark environment will protect them from fading.
Choose High-Quality Chinos
Perhaps the most important tip to protect against fading is to choose high-quality chinos. Not all chinos are the same. There are cheap and low-quality chinos, and there are premium and high-quality chinos. High-quality chinos are less likely to fade than those of lower quality.
High-quality chinos are constructed with high-quality chino material and expert craftsmanship. You don't have to worry about them degrading or fading prematurely. With a pair of high-quality chinos, you'll get a better bang for your buck. These are just a few things you can do to prevent your chinos from fading.
Conclusion
Washed chinos are an excellent addition to any man's wardrobe, offering a stylish yet practical option for various occasions. By following the tips outlined above, you can ensure your chinos remain vibrant and in great condition for years to come.
FAQs
What defines washed chinos?
Washed chinos are made from cotton that is submerged in water during production, featuring a twill weaving pattern.
How are washed chinos different from khakis?
Washed chinos have a twill weave, making them lighter and more breathable than the traditionally woven khakis.
Why are washed chinos lightweight?
The washing process and twill weave result in a lighter fabric compared to other trousers.
Are washed chinos suitable for formal wear?
Yes, they can be dressed up with a dress shirt and blazer for formal occasions.
How can I prevent my chinos from fading?
Wash them in cold water, use minimal detergent, and store them in a dark place.
