As a Personal Stylist, it is my job to dress my clients with clothing that flatters their body type and physical attributes. Whether you are male or female, there are certain guidelines to follow when it comes to choosing which style of pants are right for you. One of the most common guidelines to follow is if you are short, then cuffed pants are a big no-no! Cuffs cut off the length of your legs. Therefore, a short person will appear even shorter than what he or she really is. Men, pants worn with tuxedos, morning coats, tailcoats, and military uniforms should never be cuffed.
Cuffs look great with double-breasted suits and pants with front pleats (one pleat per leg looks best). If you have a pair of pleated pants you think would look better without their pleats, then have them altered by your tailor (every cosmopolite should have a tailor). Keep in mind that removing pleats is not a simple alteration. It consists of cutting off the pants’ entire front panel, flattening out the material, trimming the sides, and then reattaching the altered material to the pants’ sides and waist. If you choose to wear cuffs, then the width should be approximately one and an half of an inch; the cuffs should brush the heel of your shoe; and the front third of the shoe should be uncovered. Also, make sure the legs of your pants are narrow, as opposed to being flared or cut wide. The next time you throw on your favorite pair of pants remember your height and style of pants will determine whether you should cuff or not cuff.