The Skinny

F/W trouser chatter seem to revolve around wools for the most part.  There's nothing wrong with that, hell, it happens here quite a bit.  But I'd like to take a break from all that and briefly discuss moleskin trousers as a nice alternative/supplement to your current stable of fall pants.  Moleskin trousers easily walk the line between casual and formal - they're just at home with your Bean boots as they are with your typical work kit.  The functionality of moleskin lies in it's warmth and comfort.  Not many pants are as luxurious, but still durable and warm enough to hold up to harsh weather.  I've got a few pairs from high end brands in more rugged styles (i.e. Bastian paratrooper pants, Cucinelli cargos), but you can find a traditional trouser style at Cordings, a UK brand brought to my attention by the one and only Mr. James Fox.  Cording's moleskin trousers have some killer details (side adjusters, tab waistband, button fly, etc.) that give the pants a rugged, sportsman edge, which should be easy to work into your F/W wardrobe.  Spring for an unfinished pair, take them to your tailor for a nice 2" cuff and finish off with some brogue boots for a classic look.  Every F/W guys start pledging to upgrade themselves and their wardrobes. Moleskin trousers seem like a pretty good place to start.

-L.A.S