The debate began during World War II when the pleated pant, and the extra fabric it requires, fell victim to government rationing. Pleated pants have been considered a luxury item ever since—suitable for formal occasions—while plain-fronts went on to be seen as more practical, all-around pants.
The
debate began during World War II when the pleated pant, and the extra fabric it
requires, fell victim to government rationing. Pleated pants have been
considered a luxury item ever since—suitable for formal occasions—while
plain-fronts went on to be seen as more practical, all-around pants.
Personality profiles
For
a dressier look, go pleated. They’re worn higher up on the waist than
plain-front pants with the pleats helping the fabric to fall naturally. To wear
them correctly, you need to have them higher up than you might think… if you’re
standing and the pleats are ballooning open, you should pull them up.
For
a more modern look, go with the versatile plain front. They’re worn lower at
the hips than pleated and can be dressed up or down. For proper fit, look in
the mirror to see if your side pockets are bulging out, if so, your pants are
too tight.
The tall and short of it
If
you’re tall and thin, plain-fronts give you better proportions, whereas
pleated pants balloon around your waist creating a baggy look. If you still
want to try for pleated, be sure they have a single pleat.
If
you’re short, pleats are tricky. The extra fabric that comes with too many
pleats can give a round look, which you don’t want. The verticality of a
well-placed pleat will make you appear taller, but it’s all about moderation.
If
you’re heavy-set, you will want to wear pleated pants because the extra
room around the waist offers comfort. Plus, because they’re worn slightly
higher, they’ll impart a slimming effect to your profile.
Average Joe
If
you’re in the normal or average body type category, then you can take your
pick. Feel free to experiment with pleated or plain fronts in different fabrics
as the fabric weight may affect how the pants hang on you.
Your pants, perfected
Regardless of which style you prefer, spend the extra time and money by taking them to a tailor. It’s worth it. The most expensive pair of pants will only look average if you don’t have them altered to fit you. There’s a big difference between pretty good and perfect.
Brooks Brothers Vietnam:
– Ho Chi Minh: L1 – 19 & 20, Saigon Centre, 65 Le Loi, District 1 – ☎ (028) 3939 0477
– Hanoi: 31 Hai Ba Trung, Hoan Kiem District – ☎ (024) 3266 8206
