Advice on Buying High-Waisted Chinos for Summer (1920s–1950s Style, Budget-Friendly)

[Rick Dalton]

Hello all,


I'm looking for advice on where to find a good pair of high-waisted chinos for summer—ideally something that evokes the classic silhouette of the 1920s to 1950s. I'm especially interested in:

• A proper high rise (at or above the natural waist)
• Fuller legs or at least a vintage-inspired cut (not the modern slim fit)
• A sturdy, breathable cotton suitable for summer wear
• Ideally in khaki but open to other classic shades

My budget is limited, so I'm open to buying second-hand or vintage if it means better quality for the price.
Any recommendations for brands, models, or even specific eBay or Etsy sellers to keep an eye on?


Also, are there any modern brands that do a good job replicating that vintage cut without breaking the bank?


Thanks in advance—appreciate any leads or experience you can share.

 

[Pandemic]

Bronson and Olderbest are both running sales at the moment. Check out their range.

 

[Monitor]

Paul Smith.

 

[photo2u]

Bronson 1942

 

[Bennarion]

https://rodeo-japan-pine-avenue.com...ants-br40025a-02-khaki?variant=45137586782444

 

[Brandrea33]

I’m always a bit confused about high rise/low rise pants…

I get that the rise measures longer or shorter depending on the cut, but any high waisted pants I’ve bought simply fall to my natural waist/hip line. I do like how they look on some folks, I guess they just don’t work on my frame.

 

[Pandemic]

I’m always a bit confused about high rise/low rise pants…

I get that the rise measures longer or shorter depending on the cut, but any high waisted pants I’ve bought simply fall to my natural waist/hip line. I do like how they look on some folks, I guess they just don’t work on my frame.

I understand what you mean. I prefer the look of higher waisted pants on me, but they will naturally fall to my hips if I don’t cinch the belt tight and keep pulling them up. But we shouldn’t complain about having straight/narrow waists.

 

[Brandrea33]

I understand what you mean. I prefer the look of higher waisted pants on me, but they will naturally fall to my hips if I don’t cinch the belt tight and keep pulling them up. But we shouldn’t complain about having straight/narrow waists.

Ha ha … this is true I guess

 

[Rick Dalton]

Thank you everyone!

 

[Rick Dalton]

Bronson and Olderbest are both running sales at the moment. Check out their range.

Thanks for the tip! Unfortunately, I just missed the sale at Olderbest — really kicking myself, as they have a fantastic selection of retro-style trousers and more. Do they run sales regularly, or was this a rare event? Definitely keeping an eye out next time.

 

[Pandemic]

Thanks for the tip! Unfortunately, I just missed the sale at Olderbest — really kicking myself, as they have a fantastic selection of retro-style trousers and more. Do they run sales regularly, or was this a rare event? Definitely keeping an eye out next time.

They run sales like this fairly regularly. I usually have a shopping cart full, in anticipation of the next sale. They may even do a 4 July sale next week.

Over half their stock is Bronson at a slight mark-up, but I really like some of the other brands they carry as well.

 

[Pandemic]

Thanks for the tip! Unfortunately, I just missed the sale at Olderbest — really kicking myself, as they have a fantastic selection of retro-style trousers and more. Do they run sales regularly, or was this a rare event? Definitely keeping an eye out next time

 

[Aloysius]

I’m always a bit confused about high rise/low rise pants…

I get that the rise measures longer or shorter depending on the cut, but any high waisted pants I’ve bought simply fall to my natural waist/hip line. I do like how they look on some folks, I guess they just don’t work on my frame.

Trouser fit is about how they fit in the seat, not at the waist, but people usually shop by the waist measurement. That's why they generally fall.

OP, I posted about this brand recently that's exactly what you're looking for.