Learn how to style khaki pants like a fashion pro, and you’ll realize you’ve been wrong about the trousers your entire life.
It’s not your fault: The mere mention of khakis probably brings to mind the kind of low-rise chino trousers typically seen on finance bros and preppy dads. In the past, I was a self-described khaki hater and thought these business casual babies could never look cool. But once I started to see past all that, I came to realize that they can actually be the backbone of a well-rounded wardrobe. (Okay, fine—maybe not the backbone, but the femur at least.)
With the right fit, the right coloring, and the right design details, you can cross the fine line between hall monitor and TikTok baddie. So, what should you look for? It depends on your personal style. Wide-leg styles with high-heeled boots give off a posh, street style vibe. Cargo pants can lean streetwear when styled with a cool hoodie. And tapered trousers—well, they can pretty much be anything you want them to be.
Intrigued? I’ve got all the chic outfit ideas and pro styling tips you need to master the art of the khaki pant, right ahead. Read on for how to style khaki pants this spring.
With Baby Pink
There’s just something about a powder pink button-down and a pair of khaki pants that feels so timeless. The combo works with any silhouette of pant, but capri styles will be especially on trend this spring. Give the tried-and-true look an even more modern feel by reaching for a pair of cool sling-backs and chunky aviator sunnies.
With a Trench Coat and Scarf
Styling your light brown khaki pants with a matching trench will result in a high-fashion pantsuit of sorts. Add in a chic headscarf, and you’re pretty much stealing from the fashion editor playbook. To look like the cool girls at Copenhagen Fashion Week, keep the rest of the pieces minimal—think thong sandals, gold hoops, a white shirt, etc.
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With a Matching Corset
The most stylish girls we know will tell you: Corsets or fitted tanks and olive green or chocolate brown cargo pants are a modern-day love story. Add in some playful pink details for a subtle coquette vibe that’s very on trend right now.
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Add a Cropped Tank
A cropped tank is so simple and yet always effective. Go for baggy, pleated bottoms to contrast the fitted top and embody the effortlessly stylish energy of a street style star.
Consider a Khaki Suit
I’ve been on the hunt for the perfect khaki-colored suit ever since I saw a posh Aritzia employee wearing one five years ago. Make of that information what you will. The look above is inspiring me even more to find a pair of perfectly oversize brown pants and matching blazer for a casually elegant look.
With Denim and a Printed Bag
This is the designated weekend uniform for the casually influential. Layering a denim jacket with a white tee and khakis might not sound revolutionary, but it’s so laid-back and utterly nondescript that it goes full circle into being the most stylish thing one could do. Of course, it’s the stand-out accessories that truly transform this everyday casual outfit into an intentional look.
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Try a Little Plaid
I’ll be adding this outfit idea to my own lineup this spring. I’ve got a plaid blazer in my closet just waiting to have her moment. A simple white T-shirt underneath will go with any color scheme and let the print really shine.
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Wear Khaki and Brown Leather
It’s amazing the difference a chunky belt and a chic little east-west bag can make to a simple ’fit. While black always works, brown leather is the best and trendiest option to go with a warm-hued staple like khakis.
With Elevated Workwear
If you are looking to wear a khaki pants outfit in a workwear setting, keep the other elements of your ensemble breezy and loose-fitting. It’ll give the preppy combo (read: a blue shirt and suit jacket) a more high-fashion feel—as evidenced by every J.Crew model ever.
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Old Navy Button-Down Boyfriend Shirt
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In Shades of Cream
When in doubt, go for a monochrome moment when you wear khakis. A cream-colored sweater, cardigan, or turtleneck will always look put together with brown boots or loafers.
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