5 elegant outfit ideas with pleated pants
How do you wear men’s pleated pants?
Men’s pleated pants work with many styles, from smart-casual outfits to formal suits. Depending on their cut and fabric, they can be worn with a shirt, blazer or knitwear. Pleated chinos suit everyday outfits, while high-waisted or Gurkha pants can create more tailored looks.
At THE NINES, discover 5 outfit ideas with pleated pants that bring together elegance, comfort and a modern feel.
5 outfit ideas with men’s pleated pants
1. The smart-casual look: navy Braga chinos and a white shirt
For a smart-casual outfit, pair the navy Braga pleated pants with a white shirt. This timeless combination works for a day at the office, lunch or an outing in the city.
The THE NINES Braga chinos, an evolution of the Bilbao style, stand out for their mid-high waist, four pleats and roomy cut. Tuck your shirt into the pants to show off the pleats and side adjusters.
Brown leather loafers complete this elegant, relaxed outfit.
The outfit: navy Braga pants + white shirt + brown loafers.
2. The summer look: high-waisted pants in brown wool and a reverse-collar shirt
For an elegant warm-weather outfit, pair high-waisted pleated pants in brown wool with a white-and-blue striped reverse-collar shirt.
The high waist defines the silhouette, while the pleats create a fluid drape. The reverse-collar shirt lends a distinctive contemporary touch to this tailoring-inspired combination.
Brown suede loafers complete this look, ideal for lunch, an evening out or a summer event.
The outfit: high-waisted pleated pants in brown wool + white-and-blue striped reverse-collar shirt + brown suede loafers.
3. The business look: straight-cut Fresco blazer, high-waisted pants and striped shirt
For an elegant professional outfit, pair a straight-cut blazer in Fresco fabric with high-waisted pleated pants and a blue-and-white striped shirt.
The straight-cut blazer gives the silhouette structure, while the high-waisted pants add room and a tailored look. The striped shirt adds visual interest without compromising the outfit’s elegance.
Leather derby shoes complete this outfit, which is suited to the office, professional meetings and business occasions.
The outfit: straight-cut Fresco blazer + high-waisted pleated pants + blue-and-white striped shirt + leather derby shoes.
4. The fall look: gray Gurkha pants and a khaki polo-collar sweater
For an elegant and comfortable fall outfit, pair gray Gurkha pants with a khaki polo-collar sweater. This combination brings together understated colors and fabrics suited to cooler temperatures.
Gurkha pants stand out for their high waist and distinctive side adjusters. A polo-collar sweater adds a relaxed touch while keeping the outfit polished.
To show off the waist of the Gurkha pants, choose a sweater with a well-proportioned length. Dark brown leather ankle boots naturally complete this fall look.
The outfit: gray Gurkha pants + khaki polo-collar sweater + dark brown leather ankle boots.
5. The formal look: navy Dharan suit with Gurkha pants
For a formal occasion, the navy Dharan suit creates an elegant, distinctive outfit. It pairs a matching suit jacket with pleated Gurkha pants.
The high waist and side adjusters of the Gurkha pants give the outfit a tailored touch. Navy is a timeless color suited to many dressy occasions.
Pair the Dharan suit with a white shirt and black or dark brown leather shoes. A tie can complete the outfit depending on how formal the event is.
The outfit: navy Dharan suit with Gurkha pants + white shirt + leather shoes.
Which pleated pants should you choose for each occasion?
Your choice of pleated pants depends mainly on the occasion and the style you want. Here are five outfit combinations from THE NINES.
| Style | Pleated pants | Pieces to pair |
|---|---|---|
| Smart casual | Navy Braga chinos | White shirt and brown loafers |
| Summer | High-waisted pants in brown wool | White-and-blue striped reverse-collar shirt |
| Business | High-waisted pleated pants | Straight-cut Fresco blazer and blue-and-white striped shirt |
| Fall | Gray Gurkha pants | Khaki polo-collar sweater and leather ankle boots |
| Formal occasion | Navy Dharan suit with Gurkha pants | White shirt and leather shoes |
What shoes go with pleated pants?
Your choice of shoes can make men’s pleated pants work for different occasions:
- Loafers: to pair with Braga chinos or high-waisted pants for a smart-casual or summer outfit.
- Derby shoes: for a business outfit with a blazer and high-waisted pleated pants.
- Leather ankle boots: to complete a fall outfit with Gurkha pants and a knit top.
- Dress shoes: to pair with a navy Dharan suit for a wedding or formal occasion.
Whatever shoes you choose, getting the pant length right helps maintain an elegant drape.
How do you style pleated pants?
Three tips are essential for styling pleated pants:
- Highlight the waist: tuck your shirt into high-waisted or Gurkha pants to show off the pleats and waistband details.
- Balance proportions: pair roomy pants with a well-proportioned top for a harmonious silhouette.
- Match fabrics to the season: choose lightweight fabrics for warmer days and warmer knits in fall and winter.
The pleats should fall naturally down the front of the pants without opening up too much when you stand.
FAQ: how do you wear men’s pleated pants?
What tops go with men’s pleated pants?
Pleated pants can be worn with a white or striped shirt, a blazer or a polo-collar sweater. Braga chinos work well in a smart-casual outfit, while high-waisted or Gurkha pants pair easily with dressier pieces.
How do you wear high-waisted pleated pants?
High-waisted pleated pants can be worn with a reverse-collar shirt for a summer outfit, or with a striped shirt and straight-cut blazer for a business look. Tuck in the shirt to highlight the waist and pleats.
How do you wear Gurkha pants every day?
For a fall outfit, pair gray Gurkha pants with a khaki polo-collar sweater and leather ankle boots. The high waist and side adjusters add character to a simple, elegant silhouette.
Which pleated pants should you wear to a wedding?
The navy Dharan suit from THE NINES, consisting of a matching jacket and pleated Gurkha pants, is an elegant choice for a wedding. Wear it with a white shirt and leather shoes, with or without a tie depending on the dress code.