‘There are moments, Jeeves, when one asks oneself, ‘Do trousers
matter?’’
‘The mood will pass, sir’
P.G. Wodehouse, Code of the Woosters
Thankfully, the mood has passed, and it’s given way to a new one. More men are
ditching their favourite pairs of selvedge denim jeans and chinos and finding enjoyment from tailored trousers - not
only as the bottom half of a suit, but as the altogether principle piece of clothing.
This is partly due to the return of high-waisted strides and pleats, which open scope
for more casual pairings: few brands craft more impressive examples of this style than Cordone 1956. Renowned for
its impeccable shirting, the Made in Italy label also happens to create trousers that come in a variety of colours
and fabrics and are superbly constructed (as expected), with an air of creative mischief and serious smarts about
them: double-pleated, with a wide extended waistband, two double-jetted back pockets and adjustable waist tabs (for
good measure).These trousers matter. And to help get you started, we’ve compiled a few situations – or moods - they can be worn in.
Mood 1: Summer isn’t Over Yet
Glass half-full type of person? Summer may be over, but as past years suggest, this
isn’t the last we’ll be seeing of warm weather. Cordone’s beige cotton trousers are very on-trend, and would look
smart worn with a snugly tucked polo shirt (or white t-shirt), a leather belt, and a pair of loafers or sneakers
when the sun shines. If you have a holiday planned, these trousers are reliable season-transition pieces, as they
also look good with a tailored jacket thrown up top.
Mood 2: Casual Friday
What with office wear taking a more casual approach in recent years (or at the very
least, the sartorial minefield of Casual Friday), it’s nice to return from holidays flaunting your sense of
understated style in the face of hypebeasts. Cordone’s blue corded velvet trousers have a clear smart-casual
balance, thanks to the rich blue velvet fabric - a little rock ‘n’ roll - and the emphasised pleats and waist tabs -
a little Italian Riviera. Pair them with dark Chelsea Boots and a handsomely tucked-in shirt to stand out against
the sea of beanie hats and hi-tops.
Mood 3. The Much-Needed Night Out
Since we are approaching the colder months, a night on the town calls for thicker
fabrics that prevent our legs shaking like Elvis Presley’s. These grey Cordone flannel trousers are perfect. As heat
is naturally circulated in flannel, the material keeps you warm in the cold (and vice-versa). Picture yourself
stepping into your favourite bar, pub, or member’s club after work: a buttery dark cashmere roll neck, sophisticated
timepiece, and elegant, high-waisted flannel trousers; off to smoke a cigar or savour a dram of scotch: the absolute
embodiment of nightcap class.
Mood 4. Sunday Morning Lull
There is something ever-so ‘Sunday morning’ about red cord. Cordone’s Bordeaux Corded
Velvet Trousers are examples of such weekend luxury, a piece that looks better loose than it would tightly-fitted,
in preparation for a large Sunday dinner, a drive and a leisurely stroll outside with the dog. A nice merino
sweater, like Edward Sexton’s, and a pair of eccentric Stubbs and Wootton slippers come together for the perfect
outfit for the day with no plans.
Bonus Mood: The Smart Flyer
Nowhere does the tracksuit make a more sinister, uniform appearance than in the
endless, tightly packed rows on an Airbus. There are those of us who believe that aeroplanes should enforce dress
codes. Enter Cordone’s cotton trousers. Thanks to the adjustable waist and breathable fabric, you can get
comfortable without sacrificing your strongly-held sartorial principles. Better yet, these would look great with a
comfortable pair of smart sneakers and fitted white tee. Begin your holiday or business trip as you mean to end it:
with style.
