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Ask Harry: How Long Should My Pants Be?

Our essential guide to the perfect trouser break.

By: Harry Rosen StaffDate: 2024-04-03
Harry Rosen is at your service. Have a pressing style question? Message us on Instagram (<a href="https://www.instagram.com/harryroseninc/?hl=en" style="color:black";">@harryroseninc</a>) or TikTok (<a href="https://www.tiktok.com/@harryrosen" style="color:black";">@harryrosen</a>) and we’ll answer it here next time. <br> **Q:** What’s the verdict on trouser break these days? I’m unsure of how long my pants should be. Are there any strict rules I can follow? —Laurent, Montreal <br> **A:** There are certainly guidelines for trouser length or break. It’s really all about personal preference and the type of outfit you’re wearing. Trouser “break” refers to how the hem of your trousers falls in relation to your shoes — a crucial aspect of tailoring that significantly impacts the overall look of your outfit. We don’t recommend a full break, so let’s start at medium...
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<h2 class="text-xl font-semibold mt-5 mb-2 text-primary"><strong><p align="left" class="font-secondary text-2xl leading-10">1.‎ Medium Break </p></strong></h2> <p class="font-secondary text-2xl leading-10">Generally, the more break in your trousers, the more conservative you’ll look. The hem rests on top of the shoe, forming a single, neat fold. It’s a mature, no-nonsense look that doesn’t seek attention — a classic.</p> <p style="font-size:0.9000rem">**Works well with formal outfits, dress shoes, fuller leg trousers.**</p>
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<h2 class="text-xl font-semibold mt-5 mb-2 text-primary"><strong><p align="left" class="font-secondary text-2xl leading-10">2.‎ Slight Break </p></strong></h2> <p class="font-secondary text-2xl leading-10">The hem makes minimal contact with the shoe, creating a small, subtle break. It offers a slightly more relaxed look than no break, providing a clean line while maintaining a contemporary appearance. Think of it as an updated classic—tailored but not too trendy.</p> <p style="font-size:0.9000rem">**Works well with sneakers, loafers, more casual outfits, straight leg trousers.**</p>
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<h2 class="text-xl font-semibold mt-5 mb-2 text-primary"><strong><p align="left" class="font-secondary text-2xl leading-10">3.‎ No Break</p></strong></h2> <p class="font-secondary text-2xl leading-10">The hem barely touches the top of the shoe, creating a clean and streamlined appearance. It’s a modern style that’s clean, minimal, and often associated with a more tailored, trim look.</p> <p style="font-size:0.9000rem">**Works well with sneakers, loafers, slim trousers.**</p>
Find Your Perfect Break with These Trousers
Brunello Cucinelli Houndstooth Single-Pleat Wool-Blend Trousers

Brunello Cucinelli

Houndstooth Single-Pleat Wool-Blend Trousers

$1700
Harold Mélange DRAGO Mill Wool Dress Pants

Harold

Mélange DRAGO Mill Wool Dress Pants

$129.99$325Save 60%
Brunello Cucinelli Pleated Linen Cigar Pants

Brunello Cucinelli

Pleated Linen Cigar Pants

$1700
Canali Micro Twill Stretch-Cotton Pants

Canali

Micro Twill Stretch-Cotton Pants

$370.99$495Save 25%
Harold Corduroy Drago Mill Cotton-Virgin Wool Pants

Harold

Corduroy Drago Mill Cotton-Virgin Wool Pants

$375
Giorgio Armani Viscose Pants

Giorgio Armani

Viscose Pants

$1675
BOSS Slim-Fit Formal Virgin Wool Trousers

BOSS

Slim-Fit Formal Virgin Wool Trousers

$398
TAGS:#Style Advice,#How To,#Ask Harry,