The Right Length: How To Get Perfect Fitting Trousers Every Time

Most men know their waist size. Fewer know their inside leg. And almost none know what trouser length actually suits them. That’s why so many decent outfits are sabotaged at ankle level: bunching fabric, awkward breaks, hems that sit too high or low and ruin the silhouette.

The truth is, trousers that fit properly can lift your entire look. Not just in terms of style—but posture, confidence and how everything else you’re wearing falls into place. And with brands like Peter Christian offering custom-length trousers across a wide range of styles, there’s no excuse for settling anymore.

Why Trouser Length Matters

We’ve all been there. You find a pair of trousers that look great on the hanger. Waist fits, fabric’s spot-on… and then the hem swallows your shoes in a puddle of fabric. Or worse, stops just shy of the ankle like it’s had second thoughts.

The right length is the difference between polished and sloppy. It changes the line of your leg, the shape of your shoe, and the overall impression you give off. People won’t notice a perfectly hemmed pair of trousers. But they’ll definitely notice when it’s wrong.

Understanding The Break

The ‘break’ refers to the slight crease that forms where your trouser meets your shoe. And it’s where most of the magic (or disaster) happens. Here are the key breaks you need to know.

• No Break: The trouser just kisses the top of your shoe. Clean and modern, ideal for loafers or minimal trainers. Good for summer or slimmer builds.
• Slight Break: The safest and most universally flattering option. One gentle crease over the shoe. It’s the smart-casual sweet spot.
• Full Break: The hem hits the shoe and folds over once or twice. Classic, a bit more traditional, and better suited to brogues, boots or heavier tailoring.

Picking your break comes down to personal taste, body shape and footwear—but once you’ve found what works, stick with it.

How To Measure Your Leg Length

To order custom-length trousers confidently, you need one key measurement: your inseam. Here’s how to get it right at home.

1. Grab a pair of trousers you already own and like the length of. Lay them flat on a hard surface.
2. Measure the inseam. Using a soft tape measure, start from the crotch seam (where all the stitching meets) and run it straight down the inside leg to the bottom hem.
3. Take note of the number in inches. That’s your inseam—and what you’ll need when ordering custom-length trousers.

Tip: Ensure the trousers you’re measuring haven’t been overly stretched or shrunk during washing. For extra accuracy, repeat the process with another well-fitting pair and average the results.

Once you’ve got your number, Peter Christian lets you select your exact length when ordering – no tailor needed. So you just pick your waist and leg, and get the perfect fit delivered.

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3 Pairs of Trousers Every Man Needs

If you’re building a wardrobe with style and practicality in mind, you don’t need 15 pairs of trousers. You need three great ones, properly fitted, versatile, and built to last—just like the options offered by Peter Christian.

Tapered Chinos

Tapered chinos are the everyday essential. Peter Christian’s version is cut for a modern silhouette—clean through the leg without being tight—and crafted from hardwearing cotton twill that holds its shape.

They’re smart enough to wear with a blazer, yet relaxed enough for weekend brunches or casual dinners.

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Classic Jeans

A pair of classic jeans is a non-negotiable staple. Peter Christian’s range keeps things traditional: no rips, no fades, just a clean, dependable denim in a straight-leg fit that works with everything from knitwear to overshirts.

With custom leg lengths available, they’ll break exactly where you want them to.

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Wool Trousers

Then there are wool trousers—the cornerstone of any grown-up wardrobe. Peter Christian offers a range that spans pure wool, flannel and clever blends, all cut with timeless precision.

Whether you’re heading to the office or a winter event, they deliver a refined, tailored finish without the need for alterations.

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Trousers that fit properly do more for your style than any designer logo or statement jacket. And thanks to Peter Christian’s custom-length range, getting it right has never been easier.

Find your custom fit now at peterchristian.co.uk

A paid partnership with Peter Christian – words and opinions are Ape’s own.