Flannel Trouser Question

[rodes]

Most London Loungers like these and look forward to cooler weather so we can wear them. My question is, how do you gents hold them up while wearing them as an odd trouser? Braces, perhaps best, do not seem quite right without a suit or at least an odd jacket.

[J.S. Groot]

Heavy flannel, I find, will indeed need some aid in staying up. For example LL flannel. Many of the gentlemen here eschew the belt, holding it as the proprietor of all kinds of evils. With regards to how it looks, I cannot personally denounce belts with any particular kind of zeal, although I do think wearing a belt with very low rise trouser will enhance the unfortunate proportions conveyed by leg-wear cut in such a manner by severing the body in two very distinct halves, however, that is probably more due my profound dislike for low rise trousers than any trait of the belt it self. What I can say I dislike about belts is the comfort of wearing them. I really find a unyielding band of leather around my stomach rather constricting, in a manner so that I want to change into something more comfortable. Especially after a good meal. One of my recent bespoke revelations was the acquisition of a pair of Daks-topped trousers. The elastic means they're practically as comfortable as gym trousers. On the down side, the don't stay up quite as well. Currently, I've deposited a bunch of flannel trousers that I've previously worn without anything holding them up at my tailor's for him to add buckle side adjusters to. While I can't imagine it being as comfortable as the Daks, I do think it will trump belts and I prefer the clean look as well. Side adjusters seem to be a LL favorite as well.

As of yet, I have no experience with braces.

[Simon A]

If it is cold enough to wear 500 g flannel trousers, it is generally cold enough to wear a sweater or a jacket as well. So the method of suspension is not so important, indeed braces are the most comfortable and practical option.

What I love about braces with high waisted trousers is one can dress in the morning and then forget about one's clothes; no hitching up pants or tucking in shirts.

[Jordan Marc]

The advantage of braces and side adjusters with buckles is the ability to wear your trousers where they belong, on your natural waist. Low rise trousers may work for young men and women in their teen years, but grown-ups look idiotic in them. The same could be said for men wearing shorts and women
wearing bikinis after giving birth. Dress beautifully (read: elegantly and simple with tastefully chosen
accessories that don't shriek or elicit laughter from onlookers). If you feel it's necessary to make a
flamboyant statement, it's time for a thorough reality check. Act like a grown-up and carry yourself with grace and natural ease.

JMB

[davidhuh]

The advantage of braces and side adjusters with buckles is the ability to wear your trousers where they belong, on your natural waist.
JMB

Gentlemen, there is little to add to this statement. I have all my trousers made with side adjusters and buttons for braces, and this includes odd trousers. It happens very rarely that I rely on the side adjusters, because I am so much more at ease wearing braces.

How I could wear trousers with belts until two years ago is a mystery to me

Cheers, David

[JCH]

All my flannel odd trousers are Daks, even 16.5 oz Minnis. They work quite well, but could be better I suppose. For the next pair, if any, I should try side adjusters.

[rodes]

Thankyou gentleman for responding. Don't know why, but I had not much considered the advice of Simon A, "If it's cold enough for flannel, it is generally cold enough for a sweater or jacket". Very true. Even the lightest V-neck, sleeveless cotton sweater vest solves the problem of not showing your braces. This vest is modestly obtained, never seems to call attention, and flatters every man. Solution found.

[Costi]

How I could wear trousers with belts until two years ago is a mystery to me :roll

I also find braces and side adjusters a matter of definitive conversion, rather than an alternative...
I have suits I don't wear anymore (although they fit) because the trousers are cut to wear with a belt.

[J.S. Groot]

I have collected my trousers now fitted with side adjusters and I must say they have exceeded my expectations with regards to comfort at staying up properties. Definitely something you must try out if belts annoy you.

[Berwick]

I must admit to swimming against the tide here. I like the look, feel and smell of belts, and find the look of trousers with side adjusters to be "unfinished" if not wearing a buttoned jacket. It may depend on one's physique. I am six foot two and have a 34 inch waist.

[Merc]

i agree with berwick
i like belts. period.
im not a "suspender kinda guy".
also as for rise--its an odd blanket comment that perhaps young men look good in low rise trousers but really no one else

first--what do we mean by low rise? really low rise, well...i dont want to see anyone's backside coming out of their pants, thats for sure!
but a medium rise, but with the top of the trouser below the navel still is a different story--and then it depends on the build of the individual...
thats really what it is--short of a true low rise--anywhere form medium to hi-waisted it depends on the individual's build, and the rest of the cut of the trouser

[Gruto]

I'm with Berwick and Merc Moreover, if you have very long legs, trousers made from heavy cloth become so heavy that only suspenders or belt seem to have the proper grib (lighter trousers are different) .