Trousers, commonly known as pants in the US and many other countries, are a clothing item worn by men worldwide. They are stitched with one opening at the top and two at the bottom to cover the entire lower body. Trousers are considered formal and are accepted as office wear. The term slacks is also used for trousers in some places, leading to confusion and interchangeable usage of the terms.
Key Takeaways
- Pants are formal, while slacks are casual wear.
- Pants can be worn in offices, but slacks are not suitable for formal occasions.
- Slacks are loose-fitting, while pants are more fitted, though still comfortable.
Pants are a popular clothing item in the western world and commonwealth countries, as well as South Asia, China, Japan, and Korea, where traditional clothing items were once more prevalent. Pants are made from various fabrics, with cotton being the preferred choice due to its comfort and breathability. They are unisex, worn by both men and women, though women’s pants differ in colors, textures, and fits.
Slacks are a term used for formal and informal trousers worn by men and women, but mostly considered casual wear. They are not suitable for office wear, as they do not complement a tie or a formal suit. The younger generation rarely wears slacks, as they are loose-fitting and considered old-fashioned. Slacks are typically made of shiny polyester material instead of cotton, making them unsuitable for formal attire. However, they are comfortable and popular among both men and women.
