Corduroy is making a surprising comeback in menswear, and this resurgence is wholly justified. Once favored by geography professors and aging beat poets, corduroy has emerged as a subtle hero of winter fashion. It offers a richer texture than denim, a softness that surpasses wool trousers, and is significantly easier to style than its retro image would lead one to believe. The key to its modern appeal lies in contemporary cuts and stylish colors that highlight texture without veering into costume territory.
This is precisely where SPOKE’s new Cord Hackneys come into play. Crafted from Italian stretch needlecord and available in deeply-dyed hues, these trousers feature a refined, high-rise silhouette that feels inspired by mid-century modernism rather than outdated nostalgia. They are tactile, flattering, and designed for everyday wear — perfect for pairing with a chunky knit for weekend outings or a crisp Oxford for those busy days spent on Zoom.
Most importantly, these trousers prioritize fit and shape. SPOKE meticulously tailors each pair across hundreds of size options and three specific Builds, offering all the texture and character of corduroy without the bagginess that previously tarnished its reputation. You’ll find clean lines, a gentle taper, and a winter staple that fits effortlessly into the spaces where denim and wool trousers previously fell short.
Below, we present three modern, foolproof ways to style cord trousers this season — simple outfits that highlight the versatility and contemporary nature of this fabric.
Casual Cord Upgrade
This is corduroy at its most laid-back. A navy crew neck paired with a clean white tee peeking out underneath, complemented by SPOKE’s Cord Hackneys in a warm, mid-brown shade — this outfit perfectly embodies effortless weekend style without overthinking it.
The trousers do the heavy lifting, instantly elevating the silhouette with their high rise and gentle taper. The garment-dyed needlecord introduces texture without being ostentatious. Paired with minimalistic trainers, this ensemble strikes a balance between ‘coffee run’ and ‘pub lunch,’ managing to feel polished yet relaxed.
This serves as a reminder that corduroy doesn’t require a blazer or brogues to shine. Swap those usual jeans for these cords, and you’ll enjoy the same ease of wear while embracing a richer feel and a touch of sophistication. It’s a seamless addition to your wardrobe — stylish, comfortable, and effortlessly sharp.
Smart-Casual Sweet Spot
This outfit illustrates how corduroy can easily transition into a smarter look while remaining entirely relaxed. A pale blue Oxford shirt adds an immediate touch of polish, while the dark navy trousers enhance the overall sophistication — a combination that feels modern, fresh, and subtly confident.
The high rise and tapered leg provide a tailored appearance, giving the cords the structure needed to replace chinos for office wear or dinner outings. Rolling up the hems adds a laid-back vibe, whereas chunky leather shoes lend a touch of ruggedness.
It strikes a remarkable balance: smart enough for professional settings, yet relaxed enough to accommodate your lifestyle outside of work.
Modern Prep
Here, we see preppy style reimagined. The classic crisp white button-down pairs effortlessly with olive cords and a deep burgundy knit draped over the shoulders, creating a more modern and sophisticated silhouette. It feels collegiate without the typical student union vibe.
The pleated, high-rise trousers bring tailored sharpness that chinos simply can’t provide, while their earthy tone allows for easy combinations with rich knits and polished leather loafers. Rolled hems maintain a relaxed feel, preventing the outfit from becoming overly formal.
This ensemble seamlessly adapts to various settings: Saturday afternoons, casual dinners, and even the office if a touch of personality is welcome. It’s traditional at first glance yet modern in execution, showcasing how corduroy can add texture and dimension to the more polished side of your wardrobe.
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A paid partnership with SPOKE – views and opinions expressed are those of Ape.
