Corduroy, once associated with the vintage wardrobe, is making a strong comeback in menswear. It refreshes classic styles and adds personality to modern outfits. Many men avoid it as old-fashioned or hard to combine. Worn correctly, however, corduroy can turn an ordinary appearance into a memorable, refined one. For those keen to experiment with this retro-modern fabric, here are three versatile pieces to redefine a style: corduroy trousers, a corduroy jacket and a corduroy overcoat. Below is how to wear them to bring texture and warmth to the wardrobe while keeping a bold, contemporary air.
1. Where corduroy comes from: how the fabric evolved
Corduroy, originally known as “poor man’s velvet”, has evolved over time. Unlike expensive silk velvet, corduroy is made of cotton. It became popular for its durability and superior comfort. Cotton makes corduroy more affordable and better suited to everyday wear. In time, corduroy entered luxury fashion, combining refinement with durability. Today it is a versatile fabric, found in many forms, from trousers and jackets to overcoats.
2. Corduroy trousers: how to combine them correctly
Corduroy trousers come in classic shades such as brown, grey, dark green or beige. Autumn and winter are their ideal seasons. The thick fabric provides warmth and comfort on cold days. In casual contexts, they pair with a wool jumper and sturdy boots. In a semi-formal setting, a flannel shirt and a tweed sport jacket complement them very well. On the care front, corduroy trousers have an advantage: they are easy to clean. Unlike wool trousers, they can go straight into the washing machine. A casual autumn outfit might include a grey jumper, brown Chukka boots and a scarf at the neck.
3. The corduroy jacket: when and how to wear it
Corduroy jackets most often come in shades of brown, grey or green. The corduroy jacket is ideal for spring and autumn, suited to moderate temperatures. It works in a casual outfit with a simple T-shirt and jeans or chinos. In a semi-formal outfit, it combines beautifully with a white shirt and lightweight wool trousers. Unlike trouser corduroy, jacket corduroy is usually finer, that is, with more wales per inch. A casual ensemble might include a brown corduroy jacket, a simple shirt and black jeans. For a semi-formal outfit, the corduroy jacket pairs with chinos and a white shirt.
4. The corduroy overcoat: combinations that work
Corduroy overcoats usually come in shades of brown, grey or navy. The corduroy overcoat is ideal for the autumn-winter season, when temperatures fall. In a casual outfit, it can be worn with jeans and suede Chukka boots. In semi-formal settings, it pairs with wool trousers and a simple shirt. Several corduroy pieces in the same outfit are best avoided, so as not to look too “busy”. The ideal footwear for a corduroy overcoat is brown, whether monk straps, Chukka boots or lace-up boots. In a casual outfit, a navy corduroy overcoat goes with an olive waistcoat and a pair of jeans. For a semi-formal look, it can go over a wool sport jacket, with suede shoes.
The verdict? Corduroy is back in fashion as a versatile, stylish choice for the male wardrobe. Trousers, jackets or overcoats, corduroy can enrich a man’s style and add a youthful contrast to cold-season outfits.
