Chinos vs. Khakis — What's the Difference?
By Tayyaba Rehman — Updated on September 21, 2023
Chinos are lightweight cotton or cotton-blend trousers; Khakis refer both to a color (dusty brown) and to a type of cotton trouser often of that color.
Difference Between Chinos and Khakis
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Key Differences
Chinos are a type of trouser made from a lightweight cotton or cotton-blend fabric, designed to be versatile and suitable for various occasions. Khakis, on the other hand, initially referred to a particular shade of dusty brown but now also commonly denote a style of cotton trousers, often of that color.
Chinos tend to have a cleaner, sharper look with concealed stitching and are available in various colors. Khakis might have visible stitches and are predominantly available in earthy tones, especially the classic dusty brown.
While chinos are primarily known for their style and fit, khakis are often recognized for their color and more casual appearance. Chinos can be dressed up or down, whereas khakis typically lean towards a more casual aesthetic.
It's essential to understand that the term "khakis" has evolved, and while it once strictly denoted color, it now commonly refers to a type of trouser, often in the khaki color. Chinos, however, have remained more consistent in their description, focusing on the style and material of the trouser.
In terms of origin, "khaki" comes from the Hindi word for "dust" due to the color, while "chinos" originated from the American military's reference to Chinese twill fabric used for their uniforms.
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Comparison Chart
Material
Lightweight cotton or cotton-blend
Cotton
Appearance
Cleaner, sharper look with concealed stitching
Often with visible stitches, more casual
Color Range
Various colors
Predominantly earthy tones, especially dusty brown
Origin
Derived from the American military's reference to Chinese twill
Comes from the Hindi word for "dust" for its color
Use
Versatile; can be dressed up or down
Typically casual
Compare with Definitions
Chinos
Trousers made from a lightweight cotton or cotton-blend fabric
He wore chinos to the summer party.
Khakis
Cotton trousers often available in the aforementioned color
He wore khakis during the safari trip.
Chinos
Trousers with concealed stitching and a clean appearance
Chinos have a minimalist appeal due to their hidden stitches.
Khakis
Derived from the Hindi word for "dust" due to its color
The word khaki reminds of earthy terrains.
Chinos
Originating from the American military's reference to Chinese twill fabric
The army's uniforms were made from chinos.
Khakis
A specific shade of dusty brown color
The room was painted in a warm khaki shade.
Chinos
A versatile style of trousers suitable for various occasions
Chinos are perfect for both office and casual outings.
Khakis
Trousers that might have visible stitches
The visible stitches gave the khakis a rugged look.
Chinos
Often seen as an alternative to jeans for a slightly formal look
For the semi-formal event, he swapped his jeans for chinos.
Khakis
A light olive brown to moderate or light yellowish brown.
Chinos
A coarse twilled cotton fabric used for uniforms and sometimes work or sports clothes.
Khakis
A sturdy cloth of this color.
Chinos
Chinos Pants made of a coarse twilled cotton.
Khakis
Khakis A uniform made of this cloth.
Chinos
Trousers made from chino
Khakis
Khakis Pants made of a twilled cotton fabric of this color or another solid color.
Chinos
Trousers made with chino cloth.
Khakis
Plural of khaki
Chinos
Trousers made with chino cloth
Khakis
Khaki-coloured/colored cotton trousers (pants).
Khakis
(military) A khaki uniform of pants (trousers) or shorts, shirt, and hat or other head covering such as a turban.
Khakis
A style of trouser known for its casual appearance
Khakis are a weekend wardrobe staple for many.
Common Curiosities
Can khakis be considered a subset of chinos?
Not exactly. While both are cotton trousers, their stylistic and material differences set them apart.
Are chinos suitable for summer?
Yes, chinos are made of lightweight cotton or cotton-blend fabric, making them suitable for warmer weather.
Are chinos formal wear?
Chinos are versatile and can be both dressed up for a formal look or dressed down for a casual appearance.
Are chinos and khakis the same thing?
No, while they are both types of trousers, chinos have a distinct style and material, whereas khakis refer to a color and a style of trouser.
What shoes pair well with chinos?
Chinos pair well with loafers, oxfords, sneakers, and even boots.
Why are khakis named after a color?
The term "khaki" comes from the Hindi word for "dust," referencing its dusty brown color.
Is khaki only a color or also a type of pant?
Originally a color, "khaki" now also commonly denotes a style of cotton trouser, often in the khaki color.
Can I wear khakis to a formal event?
While khakis lean more towards casual wear, with the right pairing, they can be worn to certain formal events.
Can chinos be worn with a blazer?
Absolutely! Pairing chinos with a blazer can create a sharp semi-formal look.
Which is more casual: chinos or khakis?
Typically, khakis are considered more casual than chinos.
Are khakis only available in brown?
While khaki originally referred to a dusty brown color, khaki pants are now available in various colors.
Which is heavier: chinos or khakis?
Chinos are typically made of a lighter cotton or cotton-blend material, whereas khakis might be slightly heavier.
How did chinos get their name?
The name "chinos" originated from the American military's reference to Chinese twill fabric used for their uniforms.
Do chinos and khakis fit differently?
The fit can vary based on brands and styles, but generally, chinos might have a sharper fit, while khakis might offer a more relaxed fit.
Can khakis be worn in winter?
Yes, depending on their weight and what they are paired with, khakis can be suitable for winter.
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Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
