Flannel trousers

[Mike]

Hey folks. I have heard from various sources that a pair of gray flannel trousers is a mainstay in any wardrobe. I have had a hard time finding a decent pair. Either the color is too dark or too light (i'm looking for a basic gray that will go with everything from black sweaters to a navy blazer) or they are too tight in the thigh. The latter usually occurs in the flat front style. Can anyone recommend a place. Now, I can't spend 500 bucks or anything. I'm going back to college in a few days so basically I'm going back into poverty. But I'm not looking for crap brand either. Any help? I was also looking for a pair of dark brown flannel trousers as well.

 

[LA Guy]

I know that Polo gets a lot of flack on this forum, but maybe some of their higher end (Blue label) wares, available at Polo stores, would be suitable. I think that a pair of these pants wiull cost you between $100-$200, at full price; but you might find something on sale.

I would go with flat fronts if possible, especially if you plan to wear them without a jacket. They are more versatile than pleated pants, and a little younger.

A year and a half ago, I was looking for exactly the same thing, and eventually settled on a pair of flat front Hugo Boss flannels that cost me $90, half price. They are sort of wearing out at the crotch (too much dancing in them), but I haven't been able to find anything better to date.

 

[Joe G]

My grey flannel trousers came from Banana Republic. They're not great quality (not entirely virgin wool, for instance), but the price was right (US$10 on clearance), and they lasted a season. At full price, I doubt they'd be worth it. At significantly less, they're great. I'm sure they'll have something similar this year.

Peace,

JG

 

[The_Foxx]

i agree with first posting, Polo would be a classic way to go for inexpensive flannels. myself, i finally found a pair i liked from Zanella, exactly what i had in mind. definitely something every man should have in the wardrobe, along with the black knit/ grenadine necktie.

 

[aybojs]

Found these pants on Land's End online catalog; they're stretch wool with 2% lycra as opposed to pure wool if that's an issue, but for $60 they seem like they might be a good buy. I may actually get a pair myself, so maybe someone out there has had some experience with these or any Land's End trousers in general.

 

[PeterMetro]

Either the color is too dark or too light (i'm looking for a basic gray that will go with everything from black sweaters to a navy blazer) or they are too tight in the thigh.  The latter usually occurs in the flat front style.

I think the tightness issue is a question of cut, not fabric. While flannel is not the most giving fabric, and clearly the color has nothing to do with it, the cut is what makes the pants tight in the thigh. If you're so proportioned, buy pleated pants - there's no shame in it.

As far as moderately priced flannels go, Brooks Brothers is always a staple. The pant is so ubiquitous that almost any designer will make them - find your favorite.

 

[Mike]

Thanks for all the help guys. I really appreciate it.