Autumn/Winter Essential: Corduroy Trousers

Autumn/Winter Essential: Corduroy Trousers

It wouldn't be a stretch to say that autumn/winter seasons of late have been awash with talk of texture. Tweed, wool, quilting, velvet (or velour) and, of course, corduroy. During 2011, tactile dominated menswear and we all harbored a healthy obsession with the heritage of the British countryside.As we approach the colder seasons once again, texture looks likely to stay put for at least another year, with the key trends for the coming season building upon the footholds of the last. This is good news for those of us who have already invested heavily in this look – but by no means has the chance to get on the cord bandwagon passed you by.

Corduroy trousers, or ‘cords’ as they’re more readily known, have been an on-and-off wardrobe staple for decades. Often unfairly stigmatised with the tarnished brush of ‘geography teacher’ attire – much like the ubiquitous tweed blazer until fairly recently – cords, if done right, are a stylish autumn/winter alternative to your chinos and jeans.

Not only do cords provide an opportunity to add some of that much talked about texture to an outfit (which can often be the difference when looking to take your look to the next level), they are also a much warmer option than your standard heavyweight chinos. This hang up also gives denim a run for its money in terms of insulation, making the choice inarguable. With ticks against texture, style and warmth, you’d be forgiven for assuming cords are perhaps not all that comfortable, maybe even a bit stiff?

In fact, cords are very much both soft and comfortable, not to mention they retain their shape exceedingly well. Their only major drawback is that you may want to consider having a lint roller (or two) spare. Corduroy has a habit of picking up any loose hairs, dust etc. so it’s always a good idea to give them a good going over before stepping out.