The Corduroy Suit Guide - 8 Rules To Ace Your Look In 2024

Corduroy, the fabric of kings and vintage rockstars is making a suave comeback in the modern man’s wardrobe. This guide will unravel the mystery of wearing corduroy suits with style and confidence, taking you through the intricacies of this fabric. Whether you're looking to channel the rugged charm of Indiana Jones or the suave sophistication of a ‘70s movie star, corduroy is your ticket to sartorial splendour.

What Exactly is Corduroy?

Corduroy isn’t just a fabric; it’s a statement. Originating in the 1700s, corduroy is characterized by its raised cord pattern, which creates thin vertical lines known as "wales". The rounded cords give corduroy its unique texture and feel. While typically made from cotton, it can also be found in polyester blends, 100% polyester, or even wool. Cotton corduroy, however, reigns supreme for its pronounced ridges and timeless appeal.

Imagine the tactile pleasure of running your fingers over those soft, velvety ribs—yes, that’s the magic of corduroy. It’s a fabric that screams style and comfort, perfect for fall and winter when you want to break away from the monotony of denim and chinos. Corduroy allows you to step into a realm where style meets warmth, and every wale is a testament to your impeccable taste.

History of Corduroy

Corduroy’s journey through time is as rich and textured as the fabric itself. It traces its roots back to ancient Egypt, where it was initially woven for the pharaohs. Fast forward to the 18th century, corduroy became a favourite among European aristocracy. But it was in the 1970s, the era of bell-bottoms and disco, that corduroy truly found its groove. From the Beatles rocking corduroy blazers to Hollywood stars strutting in corduroy pants, this fabric became synonymous with cool.

Corduroy was the fabric of choice for the intellectual rebels and bohemian artists. It saw a resurgence in the ‘90s with oversized baggy pants, perfect for a round of hacky sack at the local park. Today, corduroy has evolved, shedding its retro baggage and emerging as a symbol of timeless elegance and modern style.

The 2025 Modern Man’s Corduroy 

For the modern man, corduroy is more than just a nostalgic throwback; it’s a declaration of individuality and refined taste. Today’s corduroy aficionado is an artistic soul, a coffee connoisseur, a self-reliant spirit, and a sustainability lover. This fabric resonates with those who appreciate craftsmanship, comfort, and a touch of vintage charm in their wardrobe.

Corduroy has made a notable comeback in fashion, seamlessly blending with the laid-back lifestyle of the contemporary gentleman. Whether you’re browsing through an indie bookstore, enjoying a latte at your favorite café, or embarking on a spontaneous weekend getaway, corduroy fits right in. Its versatility, durability, and unique texture make it a staple for the modern man who values both style and substance.

To help you navigate the world of corduroy and master this timeless fabric, here are nine essential rules:

Rule #1: Embrace the Classic Stripes

Corduroy’s signature stripes, or "wales," are what set it apart. These raised rows create a visually appealing texture that is both tactile and stylish. The wale count—the number of ridges per inch—determines the fabric’s look and feel. Lower wale counts mean wider cords, perfect for a casual, rugged look, while higher wale counts feature thinner cords, offering a more formal, refined appearance.

Remember the iconic striped suits worn by Wes Anderson’s character? That’s the beauty of corduroy. It’s quirky yet sophisticated, perfect for those who dare to stand out. When choosing corduroy, embrace these classic stripes as they add depth and character to your outfit. Vertical stripes elongate your frame, creating a slimming effect, and give you that extra touch of elegance.

Just remember to keep the stripes vertical to maintain that classic corduroy charm. Vertical stripes ensure that the fabric drapes beautifully, maintaining the suit's structured yet breezy aesthetic. 

With Hangrr's expertly tailored corduroy suits, you can effortlessly incorporate these stylish stripes into your wardrobe.

Rule #2: Pick the Right Color for a Rugged Look

Corduroy comes in a spectrum of colors, each bringing its unique flair. For a rugged, timeless look, earthy tones like olive, brown, and navy are your best bet. These colors complement the fabric’s texture and are perfect for fall and winter. Picture yourself in an olive green corduroy suit, exuding the rugged charm of Indiana Jones while sipping on a scotch by the fireplace.

 

Here’s a look at some of Hangrr's bestselling corduroy fabrics.

In 2025, the color palette leans towards rich, deep tones that evoke a sense of warmth and sophistication. Think of a navy corduroy blazer paired with dark jeans or a rich brown corduroy suit that makes you look like you just stepped out of a vintage film. These hues not only look stylish but also resonate with the season’s mood, making you the best-dressed man in the room.

Rule #3: Choose the Right Corduroy Fabric

At Hangrr, we pride ourselves on offering corduroy suits made from 100% cotton. Why cotton? Because it provides the best balance of durability, texture, and comfort. Cotton corduroy’s pronounced ridges stand out, making it the ideal choice for a striking, stylish outfit.

Polyester blends might try to mimic the look, but nothing beats the feel of pure cotton corduroy. Synthetic materials like polyester can trap heat and moisture, making you feel hot and uncomfortable. Stick to natural fibres like cotton, which are breathable and help regulate your body temperature. Whether you’re dressing up for a formal event or going for a casual outing, a cotton corduroy suit ensures you stay comfortable and stylish.

At Hangrr, we offer a range of corduroy suits made from luxurious Italian cotton woven by Roger La Viale. For those who are environmentally conscious, we also provide the option to make your corduroy suit 100% vegan. Our commitment to sustainability means you can look great and feel good about your clothing choices.

Rule #4: Nail the X Factor: The Perfect Fit

The right fit is crucial for a corduroy suit. Your jacket should sit perfectly on the shoulders, while trousers should offer a slim, comfortable fit—neither too tight nor too loose. Corduroy has a relaxed charm, but proper tailoring ensures it looks refined rather than sloppy.

Traditional custom tailoring can be expensive, but Hangrr’s AI-driven approach makes it accessible, blending style, sustainability, and affordability. A well-fitted suit enhances your appearance while allowing you to move with ease, making it a smart choice for any occasion.

Rule #5: Accessorize Wisely & Layer Smartly

Corduroy suits have a lot of personality, so accessorize with care. Keep it simple and elegant. A silk tie in a complementary color, a crisp pocket square, and a pair of polished loafers can elevate your look without overshadowing the suit’s texture.

When it comes to layering, opt for lightweight fabrics like cotton or linen to maintain a cohesive and comfortable ensemble. A lightweight sweater or vest can add warmth without compromising the suit’s appeal. Remember, less is more. Let the corduroy be the star of the show.

 

Rule #6: Custom Build Your Suit

A well-tailored corduroy suit isn’t just about fabric—it’s also about smart construction. A lighter build enhances comfort, making your suit more wearable throughout the day.

For formal events, a half-canvassed, half-lined jacket strikes the right balance, while an unlined or unstructured jacket works for a more relaxed or casual look. Single-breasted styles are preferable to double-breasted ones, as they feel lighter and more effortless. Soft construction elements like minimal shoulder padding and hand-canvassing further improve breathability.

Off-the-rack suits rarely offer these refined details. With a custom Hangrr suit, you can craft something truly unique, choosing everything from fit to fabric. Whether you prefer a vegan corduroy suit or want to embrace sustainable, high-quality materials, our expert stylists ensure a timeless, stylish suit designed just for you.

Need specific help selecting the right construction for your tailored corduroy suit? 

Rule #7: Confidently Casual

Corduroy suits can effortlessly transition from formal to casual settings. For a laid-back look, pair your corduroy jacket with chinos or tailored shorts. Mixing and matching corduroy pieces with other wardrobe staples allows you to create stylish and comfortable outfits for various occasions.

Picture yourself at a casual weekend brunch, sporting a corduroy blazer over a simple tee and jeans. Effortlessly stylish and comfortably casual, you’ll be the epitome of cool without even trying.

Wear as Separates

Corduroy suits are versatile enough to be worn as separates. Mixing and matching pieces can create a variety of outfits, making corduroy a valuable addition to your wardrobe.

How to Wear Corduroy Trousers

Corduroy trousers can be styled in numerous ways. For a casual look, pair them with a simple white t-shirt and sneakers. For a more polished appearance, wear them with a soft button-down shirt and loafers. Darker shades like black or grey can make corduroy trousers suitable for business casual settings.

 Channel your inner James Bond in corduroy trousers and a turtleneck, and you'll be ready to save the world—or at least win the style game.

How to Wear a Corduroy Blazer

For a business formal look, pair a black corduroy blazer with a white dress shirt, charcoal grey dress pants, and black shoes. For a semi-formal look, wear a brown corduroy blazer with a grey roll neck sweater, chinos, and loafers. Elevate this look by adding accessories such as a leather bag or belt. A corduroy blazer can easily be worn casually by wearing it over a t-shirt with dark blue denim jeans.

Rule #8: Embrace Low Maintenance

Corduroy is relatively low maintenance. To keep your corduroy garments looking their best, avoid excessive washing. Instead, spot clean as needed and use a fabric brush to maintain the texture. When storing, hang your corduroy pieces to prevent creases and preserve their shape.

Unlike high-maintenance fabrics that require constant ironing and special care, corduroy’s durable nature makes it easy to manage. It’s like the golden retriever of fabrics—reliable, low maintenance, and always stylish.

Best Corduroy Suits for Men in 2025

Check out these top corduroy suits from Hangrr to elevate your wardrobe this year:

 

- Navy Blue Corduroy Suit - Perfect for formal occasions with a touch of classic elegance.
- Olive Green Corduroy Suit - Rugged yet refined, ideal for smart-casual settings.
- Rich Brown Corduroy Suit - Versatile and stylish, a must-have for any wardrobe.
- Deep Burgundy Corduroy Suit - Bold and sophisticated, perfect for making a statement.
- Classic Black Corduroy Suit - Timeless and chic, suitable for both formal and casual events.
- Golden Khaki Corduroy Suit - Warm and inviting, great for fall and winter.

FAQ: Corduroy Suits in 2025