What are "chinos"?

Chinos are a style of pants made from lightweight cotton twill fabric that originated in the military as part of the uniform for British and French soldiers in the mid-19th century. They gained popularity in civilian fashion during the 20th century and have become a staple of men's and women's casual wear. Chinos are characterized by their straight leg, slimmer fit, and tapered ankle, and are often made in a khaki or beige color, although they are available in a variety of colors. They are versatile and can be dressed up or down, depending on the occasion, and are a popular choice for business casual or smart casual outfits.