Corduroy, once associated with vintage wardrobes, is making a strong comeback in men’s fashion today. It refreshes classic styles and adds extra personality to modern outfits. Many men avoid this fabric, considering it outdated or hard to combine. Yet, if worn correctly, corduroy can transform an ordinary appearance into a memorable one full of refinement.
If you want to experiment with this retro-modern fabric, we suggest three versatile pieces that can redefine your style: corduroy trousers, the corduroy jacket, and the corduroy coat. Discover how to wear them to bring texture and warmth to your wardrobe while maintaining a bold, contemporary vibe.
A Brief History
Corduroy, originally known as “the poor man’s velvet,” has evolved over time. Unlike expensive velvet made of silk, corduroy is crafted from cotton. This made the fabric popular thanks to its durability and superior comfort. Cotton not only makes corduroy more affordable but also more suitable for everyday wear. Over time, corduroy entered luxury fashion, blending refinement with durability. Today, it is a versatile material, found in many forms, from trousers and jackets to coats.
Corduroy Trousers
Corduroy trousers are available in classic colors like brown, gray, dark green, or beige. Autumn and winter are the ideal seasons to wear corduroy trousers, as this thick fabric offers warmth and comfort in cold weather.
For casual contexts, pair corduroy trousers with a wool sweater and sturdy boots. In a semi-formal setting, a flannel shirt and a tweed blazer complement corduroy trousers perfectly. A big advantage: corduroy trousers are easy to maintain. Unlike wool ones, they can be quickly machine-washed.
A stylish casual fall outfit could include a gray sweater, a pair of brown Chukka boots, and around the neck, a sharp scarf.
Corduroy Jacket
Corduroy jackets are most often seen in shades of brown, gray, and green. They are ideal for spring and autumn, suited for moderate temperatures. You can wear a corduroy jacket in a casual outfit with a simple T-shirt and jeans or chinos.
For a semi-formal look, the corduroy jacket pairs nicely with a white shirt and lightweight wool trousers. Unlike trouser corduroy, jacket corduroy is usually finer, meaning it has more wales per inch.
A casual combo could include a brown corduroy jacket, a simple shirt, and black jeans. For a semi-formal outfit, try matching the jacket with chinos and a white shirt.
Corduroy Coat
Corduroy coats are usually available in shades of brown, gray, and navy blue (see images 1 and 2). The corduroy coat is perfect for autumn and winter when temperatures drop.
For casual wear, you can pair the coat with jeans and Chukka boots. In semi-formal contexts, match it with wool trousers and a simple shirt. It’s best to avoid combining multiple corduroy pieces in the same outfit to prevent an overly “loaded” look.
The ideal footwear for the corduroy coat is brown—whether monk straps, Chukka boots, or lace-up boots. For a casual outfit, wear a navy corduroy coat with an olive vest and a pair of jeans. For a semi-formal look, style the corduroy coat with a wool blazer and suede shoes.
Corduroy is back in fashion, a versatile and stylish choice for the modern man’s wardrobe. Whether you opt for trousers, jackets, or coats, this fabric can enrich your style, adding a youthful contrast to your cold-season outfits.
