Fashion trends are born in unassuming places during a pandemic. Take, for instance, the recent popularity of Gap khakis.
MSNBC data expert Steve Kornacki became a national obsession following Election Day 2020 as the network’s Electoral College “map guy,” a gig that required him to be on air for the majority of the four days that it took networks to call the race—and he did so while wearing Gap khaki pants. The preppy bottoms got so much praise that viewers have coined a term for them: Kornacki’s khakis.
Following the khaki’s airtime last year, Gap saw a 90 percent surge in online sales of its Modern Khakis with GapFlex.
Beyond the Gap, sellouts for men’s khakis increased by 88 percent during Q4 2020 from the previous quarter, which is nearly double the sales from the same period in 2019, according to Edited analyst Kayla Marci.
The smart casual wardrobe staple is bound to be more than just a fleeting fashion moment. Though many will likely continue to work from home for the majority of the year, trend experts are predicting workers will want to elevate their attire when they return.
In preparation for a big khaki year, Rivet compiled a list of the best Kornacki-inspired khakis for men and women.
1.Gap
Gap’s Modern Khakis with GapFlex are where it all began. Featuring a stretch waistband and a stain-resistant weave, these pants are both practical and comfortable. They’re also available in a number of neutral tones for endless smart casual pairings.
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2. Vineyard Vines
A Massachusetts-based brand known for its preppy, nautical influences, Vineyard Vines is a destination for all things smart casual. The brand’s Breaker pants are one of its longest-running styles. They feature a slim fit, light stretch and tapered leg.
3. Dockers
Dockers is synonymous with khakis. The brand’s signature style in an athletic fit provides more room in the thigh area and tapers at the ankle. It features No Wrinkle technology and a shirt gripper to create the perfect shirt tuck for in-office days.
4. Everlane
Everlane’s Performance Chino is packed with technical features, including sweat-wicking, quick-drying and four-way stretch technology to keep wearers comfortable and ready for anything. It’s available in athletic and slim fits, as well as a range of muted colors.
5. Rhone
Activewear label Rhone put its unique spin on the classic men’s khaki. The Commuter Pant features Flex-Knit fabric for added stretch and a security pocket to keep your belongings secure. It’s available in regular, slim, skinny and seasonal fits.
6. G-Star Raw
Though G-Star Raw is known for denim, it also carries high-quality khakis. The Bronson slim chino is made of premium micro-stretch twill, and includes a coin pocket integrated in the side seam.
7. J. Crew
J. Crew’s vintage straight pants offer women a khaki style that mimics the popular cigarette jean. With a high rise and a slim fit, these pants are bound to be an office go-to.
8. Club Monaco
Club Monaco describes these pants as being “for Mondays—or Sundays.” Really, they’re practical for any day of the week, thanks to their wide fit and tailored elements. The center pleating and large cuffs make them appropriate for any occasion.
9. Asos Design
Made with BCI cotton, Asos Design’s chino pants are part of the brand’s responsible edit. The style features a high waist, side pockets and rolled cuffs for a classic khaki look.
10. Athleta
Activewear brand Athleta knows how to make pants that are comfortable and performance-ready. The Brooklyn Ankle Pant features an elastic waistband and side panels for added movement, making them a perfect choice for everything from lounging around the house to working at an office.
