What are Pleated Pants?
Pleated pants are trousers that feature a small fold located below the waistband, which adds an additional layer of fabric to the front of the pants. The extra fabric creates a more relaxed fit and a slight taper towards the hem, thereby creating a roomier and comfortable form of pants.
Unlike flat-front pants, pleated pants have more space around the thighs, hips, and seat. They have a distinct fold that runs from the waistband down to the cuff, creating a creased center line.
Pleated pants were first introduced in the early 1900s and were quite popular until the 1990s when flat-front pants became trendy.
Why do People Wear Pleated Pants?
People love pleated pants because they offer a relaxed and comfortable fit, especially for men who have wider hips or larger thighs. The pleats have the added benefit of visually elongating the legs, making the wearer appear taller.
Pleated pants are ideal for business casual events, formal occasions, and even casual wear.
Check out this Youtube video: “Why Did Men Stop Wearing Pleated Pants (Trousers)?” and stay ahead of the fashion game for 2022 in the Men’s Clothing category.
History of Pleated Pants
Pleated pants have been a menswear staple since the early to mid-20th century, popular among middle managers. However, in the mid-90s, flat-front trousers became more popular and the once-loved pleats saw a decline in popularity.
In the early 2000s, pleats made a brief comeback but were quickly replaced. Today, pleated pants are making a huge comeback, as men’s fashion is moving away from the slim-fit trend that had become popular in the last decade.
Why Pleated Pants Are Back in Style
The resurgence of pleated pants can be attributed to the shift in men’s fashion towards more relaxed and comfortable clothing. Pleated pants are no longer seen as “dad pants” but as a stylish and comfortable option for all ages.
They are versatile, with many different styles and fabrics available that can be dressed up or down, making them a suitable option for both formal and casual occasions. Pleats also add a classic touch to an outfit, offering a unique sartorial element that flat-front trousers may lack.
How to Style Men’s Pleated Pants in 2022
When it comes to styling pleated pants in 2022, the key is to aim for a relaxed and comfortable look. Opt for pleated pants that are made of lightweight fabrics such as linen or cotton, this can make them appropriate for warmer seasons too.
You can pair them with a simple t-shirt or a button-down shirt for casual occasions, or opt for a blazer for a dressier look.
When it comes to footwear, pleated pants look great with loafers or dress shoes for dressier occasions. They can also be paired with casual sneakers for a more casual look.
So, to answer the question “Are men’s pleated pants in style 2022?” – the answer is a resounding yes.
Pleated pants are back in fashion and more stylish than ever before. With a variety of styles and fabrics to choose from, pleated pants are versatile and suitable for any occasion.
So why not try out a pair and add some variety to your wardrobe?
6 Reasons Why Men Stopped Wearing Pleated Pants
Are men’s pleated pants in style 2022? Let’s first look at the reasons behind the decline of pleated pants in men’s fashion.
Pleats Can Be Unflattering, If Cut Poorly
Poorly cut pleats can negatively affect your overall style and can be unflattering, especially when they create an unsightly bulge around the hips area.
Some Fabrics Don’t Take A Pleat Well
A lot of fabrics don’t drape well with pleats, which can create a baggy and unattractive silhouette. This especially holds true for lightweight and thinner fabrics like linen and cotton.
Casualization of Menswear
Pleated pants have become less fashionable and mainstream in recent years due to the trend towards casual wear. Men and designers alike have embraced laid-back styles and comfortable clothing as a reflection of lifestyle changes.
“Nerd” Associations
Pleated pants have been linked with a nerdy or outdated stereotype that has caused some men to stray away from this style.
Pleats are Associated with the Workplace
Historically, pleated pants have been associated with the workplace, which has resulted in a less versatile casual look. Flat-fronted pants, on the other hand, are now considered more fashionable for both formal and casual occasions.
Modern-Day Clothing Trends
Pleated pants have been making a comeback in men’s fashion, but they are still not as popular as they once were. The current trend is towards flat-fronted pants and more relaxed, relaxed fit, chino-style trousers.
Outfit Rundown
Are men’s pleated pants in style 2022? Well, the answer is YES!
Pleated pants have made a huge comeback this year, and they are now considered a stylish addition to any men’s wardrobe. The relaxed, comfortable fit of pleated pants is perfect for casual and formal occasions alike.
Casual Wear
For a casual look, you can’t go wrong with pleated pants paired with a simple t-shirt and sneakers. The pleats add volume and structure to the pants, creating a sleek and put-together look.
You can also try pairing pleated pants with a denim jacket for a trendy twist.
Formal Occasions
When it comes to formal occasions, pleated pants can be dressed up with a blazer and oxford shoes. Opt for classic colors like navy or camel for a sophisticated look.
The pleats add dimension to the pants, making them appear more structured and polished.
Color Matching
When it comes to color matching pleated pants, it’s important to keep things simple. Neutral hues like black, navy, and gray are a great choice for a classic look.
Alternatively, you can incorporate lighter shades like beige or khaki for a more casual look.
Are Men’s Pleated Pants in Style 2022?
Pleated pants have been a menswear staple for decades, but their popularity has dwindled in recent years. However, there is good news for those who love the relaxed and comfortable fit of pleated pants – they are making a comeback in 2022!
Men’s fashion experts predict that pleated pants will be one of the top trends this year, thanks to the renewed interest in vintage styles and the push for more comfortable clothing.
Why Pleated Pants Fell Out of Fashion
While pleated pants were a hit in the mid-20th century, they saw a decline in popularity in the ’90s and early 2000s. Flat-front trousers became the norm, and pleats were associated with outdated styles and middle-manager garb.
Additionally, the skinny fit trend that started in 2012 made smooth, flat-front pants more fashionable.
Why Pleated Pants Are Making a Comeback
Despite their decline in popularity, pleated pants never really went out of style for those who appreciated their comfort and relaxed fit. Now, designers are embracing their vintage appeal and updating them for the modern man.
Properly cut pleated pants can be more comfortable and make it easier to sit down, while also having a more slimming effect on all but the thinnest of men.
How to Wear Pleated Pants in 2022
If you’re interested in trying out the pleated pants trend, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, make sure you get a properly tailored pair that fits you well and flatters your body type.
Choose a neutral color like gray, black, or khaki for versatility and wearability. Pair them with a tucked-in button-up shirt or a sweater and dress shoes for a polished look, or dress them down with a t-shirt and sneakers for a more casual vibe.
Pant Styles for Today’s Guys
Men’s pleated pants were a staple in the early to mid-20th century, however, they are seen less and less these days. Pleats were popular middle-manager garb in the 80s, they hit their peak in trendiness in the 90s but gradually phased out in the early 2000s, with flat-front trousers becoming the norm.
Currently, pleated pants for men are not in style, and men’s fashion is making a huge step towards more relaxed and comfortable pants.
However, properly cut pleated pants can still have a place in men‘s fashion today, especially when worn well and tailored correctly, as they offer more comfort and a slimming effect on all but the thinnest of men. They make it easier to sit down and move around, making them practical for everyday wear.
While pleated pants may not be in style in 2022, it’s important to note that fashion is cyclical and trends come and go. It’s always possible that pleated pants for men may make a comeback in the future.
Conclusion
Although pleated pants were popular in the past and are known to provide comfort and slimming effects, they are currently not in style for men‘s fashion in 2022. Pleated pants hit their peak of stylishness in the 1980s, where the excess of consumerism that characterized the era pushed for this trend.
However, modern-day clothing trends and the preference for slim-fit pants have resulted in a decline in popularity for pleated pants. Today, proper tailoring and cutting of pleated pants can still provide a flattering look for the right body type, but overall, they are not seen as a fashionable choice for men’s clothing in 2022.
References
- “Yes, Pleated Pants Are Really Back—and They’re More Stylish Than Ever” by Zoe Sessums, GQ
- “How to Wear Pleated Pants for Men in 2022”
