Is corduroy back?

Corduroy is a woven fabric with distinctive ridges. It’s a popular choice for clothing due to its timeless feel, as well as offering plenty of warmth and the potential for versatile styling. Looking after corduroy is a must in order for it to last longer, with care including air-drying where possible and avoiding any lint-heavy washing loads.

It’s official! Corduroy is back in style…

…although we’re more of the opinion that it never really left! With a distinctive ridged texture and laid-back vintage feel, corduroy is once again becoming a firm favourite in the world of fashion.

Forget the old formality! Whether it’s the casual overshirts or a cosy winter jacket, this incarnation of corduroy is all about versatile, comfortable clothing - the kind that works just as well for weekend city breaks as it does for an evening at the pub.

If you’re a new convert to the corduroy love - or maybe even an old hand rediscovering a forgotten favourite - we’ve got all you need to know right here in this guide from how to style corduroy pants to how to care for it properly. 

Let’s take a look!

What actually is corduroy fabric?

Corduroy is a woven fabric traditionally crafted from cotton or a cotton-rich blend. It’s famous for its distinctive ridges - known as wales - that give it a soft, textured feel.

There are two main types of corduroy:

• Wide-wale corduroy - Has more pronounced ridges for a bolder look.

• Fine-wale corduroy - Has narrower ridges that create a subtler texture.
  
  

Why is corduroy back in style?

The returning popularity of corduroy is all part of a wider trend that favours timeless style. It has all the character of a vintage fabric without feeling too traditional or formal, especially when paired up with modern staples (think graphic tees or trainers).

Plus, corduroys bring an added dimension to your style that is hard to resist:

• Added texture - Adds another dimension to simple outfits.

• Good for layering - Pairs up great with shirts, fleeces, knitted jumpers, and jackets.

• Easy warmth - The soft pile and woven construction keep you warm during the cooler months.

• Versatile styling - Corduroy can work for casual and formal events alike, depending on the rest of your fit.

• Timeless fashion - The primary appeal of corduroy is the heritage-inspired look it brings.
  
  

In short, corduroy is a comfortable and characterful wardrobe staple that offers a timeless feel to your everyday style.

How to style corduroy

When it comes to corduroy styles, you don’t need to transform your entire wardrobe - it's a straightforward addition to your everyday fits. Here are our favourite tips:

1. Begin with a corduroy overshirt

A corduroy overshirt, such as the Olson Men’s Shacket, is a great way to wear the fabric. There’s plenty of flexibility: leave it open over a top (like the Kaycee) for a casual evening fit, or keep it buttoned up with a lightweight jacket - such as the Haxwell Sherpa Fleece - when the morning commute gets cooler.

If you’re not convinced, a corduroy hat (like the Calderwood) can be another way to test out the fabric without fully-committing. It’s a simple addition - but it works so well!

2. Keep your base layers simple

Corduroy already brings plenty of character, so keeping the base layers simple is the best bet. 

If you’re wondering how to style corduroy pants, this is the perfect approach! Whether you're pairing it up with a sherpa gilet or a graphic sweatshirt, you’ll perfectly balance your outfit without outshining the cord.

3. Try out tonal dressing

In short, tonal dressing is when you combine similar shades instead of matching every piece precisely. For example, a brown corduroy layer (like the ash brown shacket) could be paired up with some khaki trousers and a light green tee.

This is a great way to keep the contemporary cord feel, instead of leaning overly vintage.

4. Don’t be afraid to take the cord outdoors!

It isn’t just for days at home and pub lunches -corduroy styles great when you’re venturing into the great outdoors. Just keep it layered up properly!

Whether it’s a casual countryside walk or spontaneous staycation, why not try the Buckley Men’s Corduroy Padded Jacket! Add some practical jeans, a pair of walking boots and you’re all set to go!

Just keep in mind that corduroy is best suited to dry-weather adventures. For heavy rain or higher-intensity activities, your waterproofs should do the heavy lifting. 

How to care for corduroy

Corduroy is made to be worn, but, with some straightforward care, you can keep it looking good for longer! Make sure to always check the individual care label, as fabric blends and finishes can differ on each piece.

Turn it inside out to wash

Turning corduroy inside out before washing helps protect the ridges from friction in the washing machine, as well as reducing the risk of the pile becoming flattened. 

Always make sure to fasten the buttons and zips before putting in the wash.

Opt for a cool, gentle wash

It’s better to use a cool, gentle cycle with mild detergent, as high heat and aggressive washing can affect the colour and texture. 

Wash with similar colours and avoid overloading the machine to protect the fabric’s pile from being crushed.

Avoid washing with any lint-heavy laundry loads

The textured surface of corduroy means it can attract lint, so try to avoid washing it with towels, fleeces, knitwear, or any other lint-shedding pieces where possible.

A lint-roller or soft clothes brush can be a good investment for fans of corduroy, helping to keep the fabric looking fresh between washes.

Air dry where possible

Once you’ve washed the corduroy, gently reshape the garment and air dry it.

If the care label allows for tumble drying, use a low heat and remove the garments whilst it’s still slightly damp before hanging up. Using a high heat can cause shrinking and may impact the softness of the fabric.

Avoid ironing

Try to avoid ironing corduroy directly, as too much pressure and heat can flatten the ridges. A garment steamer is the better option, as it’s more gentle when releasing creases. 

If ironing is absolutely necessary, turn the item inside out, use low heat, and place a towel or old t-shirt between the iron and the fabric.

So, is corduroy in style?

Absolutely - and we’re fully on board with it! From the dependable shackets to the comfy trousers, corduroy styles well through it all. It’s comfortable and practical, not to mention full of timeless character - the perfect addition to your wardrobe during the winter months!

Explore our brand new corduroy products and more in our ‘Proper Graft’ collection.

For more style advice, you can check out our blog, covering everything from why people are wearing fleeces again to the complete shacket guide.