Chinos may have once been a somewhat frowned-upon, too-preppy nerd staple, but they're quickly becoming the coolest alternative to denim! It once took quite the stylish, risk-taking fashionista to rock a pair of chinos in a way that didn't look too stiff and stuffy, but this season's cropped pairs are bringing the cool factor, making them not nearly as difficult to pull off in style! From sleek and straight-legged and skinny cargo styles to cuffed boyfriend pairs, today's chinos serve as a polished alternative to jeans that's still casual-cool. Wear with a pair of sky-high wedges and a floaty blouse, or mix textures with a sequined sweater for a contrasting springy night-out look. Of course we can't all have endlessly long model-esque gams, so be sure to be wary of flattering proportions when working with tricky ankle-length or mid-calf cuffs! With the right silhouette, you've got yourself a cool new spring wardrobe staple!

Pictured above: Trouve Boyfriend Chino Pants, 7 For All Mankind Khaki Boy Chino, Vince Boyfriend Chino Pants, and Joie Reina Chino Pants.

- Alex Gambardella