All About the Gurkha Trousers

The Rise of the Trousers:
The trousers got popularised in the 1980's due to the durability and functionality. Originally offered in a standard khaki twill by the British military, the Gurkha trouser soon gained momentum as a fashion item making full use of all types of fabrication to achieve the structured style.

​​"The long trouser is defined by its double-pleated front and high, cummerbund-style waistband with buckle fastenings. As is often the case with clothing derived from militaria, the specifics can vary. Traditional Gurkha pants feature a very distinct buckling system, with a buckle emanating from within the waistband on the left hip and an extension above the fly piece forming the buckle’s tongue for the right hip, although modern interpretations sometimes simplify this design, to their detriment. It’s not unheard of for Gurkha style trousers to have a double-buckle on each hip either, though woe betide you if you have to remove them with any semblance of haste." - The Rake
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It's brother the Gurkha Bermudas/shorts is essentially the same design but - obviously - cut as a short, it’s as easy-wearing as its longer counterpart, and the buckle construction makes it a surprisingly versatile choice for summer dressing with no belt required.

How it all started: 
During the Anglo-Nepalese War (1814–16) between the Gorkha Kingdom (present-day Federal Democratic Republic of Nepal) and the East India Company, the Gorkhali soldiers made an impression on the British, who called them Gurkhas. They were an elite fighting troops under contract to the East India Company in the Pindaree War of 1817, Bharatpur in 1826 and the First and Second Anglo-Sikh Wars in 1846 and 1848. They fought on the British side and became part of the British Indian Army on its formation. 

The Gurkha trouser was borne out of this alliance as well - rooted in British military tradition but modified specifically for use by the Nepalese. History of the trouser is rooted deep within British Military tradition.

It was once said: "If a man says he is not afraid of dying, he is either lying or he is a Gurkha."

Today:
The main reason why the Gurkha is so popular now as firstly, it is so versatile & practical the pants itself has the functionality of a normal trouser with two side pockets. It's noticeable trait is obviously the waistband, which is altered to be more secure & distinctive. The high-waisted look gives the wearer a sense of security and it makes the shirt stay easier than regular trousers. It also surprisingly complements so many tops ranging from T shirts, Dress shirts & Polos.

Secondly, it is stylish as hell. It’s hardy, utilitarian and exceptionally comfortable but its design references screams tailoring at it's finest. It is hard to head out to the stores and get a pair that fits you perfectly. the Gurkha also does not look like any other design. This is a trouser that one could wear out on weekends to the movie, traveling to far places and just a regular trip to the grocery store. Nevertheless how it’s worn will always retain a touch of mobility & ever-lasting classic stylishness that would never go out with the trends.

So why buy the Gurkha?
The Gurkha trouser makes anyone who wears look slim, structured, smart and tall by making the legs the focal point of every outfit. Wearing them the right way with a single or double pleat always draws attention to the body that everyone neglects. Simply not many really consider how a good pair of trousers can actually bring out their personal style.

All in all, the Gurkha a damn good trouser just because its hardy, long lasting, does not change it shape as easily as a wool poly blend trousers. It can be worn for many occasions and relatively inexpensive. One would not need to invest in a belt due to how it mostly comes with adjustable bucklers, giving one a perfectly shape figure.