Style guide · Shalwar and trousers
Cigarette Pants With Kameez: Slim, Tapered and Ankle Length
Quick answer
Cigarette pants are slim trousers that taper to a narrow hem just above the ankle, often with small slits so they slip on easily. They look crisp under a long straight or A-line kameez and suit work and everyday wear. They need fabric with some body, and an accurate thigh and trouser bottom measurement.
What it is, and how it differs from straight trousers
Cigarette pants follow the leg closely from the hip and narrow towards the ankle. The waist is usually full elastic, or elastic at the back with a flat front for a smoother line under a fitted kameez. Because the hem is narrow, many have short slits at the side or front, finished with a facing, lace or small buttons. Compared with straight trousers:
- Shape: cigarette pants taper from the knee to the ankle; straight trousers keep the same width all the way down.
- Length: cigarette pants end just above the ankle bone; straight trousers usually fall to the ankle or a little lower.
- Fit: cigarette pants sit closer at the thigh and calf, so they need a thigh measurement; straight trousers are more forgiving.
- Feel: cigarette pants look sharper and more tailored; straight trousers are easier to sit and move in all day.
Who and what it suits
- Long straight and A-line kameez: the slim leg keeps the outline clean. See the A-line kameez guide.
- Flared kameez: a narrow trouser balances the volume of a kalidar or other flared cut.
- Work and campus: smart, neat under a coat, and easy with flat shoes.
- Short straight kurtas: a modern, co-ord look, though wider trousers balance a very short top more.
Fabric and how much you need
Cigarette pants need fabric that holds its line, such as cambric, cotton or khaddar. Very thin lawn can strain and wrinkle at the seat and knee. Because they fit closely, it’s worth thinking about shrinkage before cutting; our guide to pre-washing fabric explains when it helps.
As a rough guide, cigarette pants take about 2 metres of 45 inch (114 cm) fabric, a little more for taller wearers and larger sizes, so the trouser piece in a standard unstitched suit is usually enough.
Measurements that matter
Along with your trouser length, measured in your usual shoes, give your thigh at its fullest point and the trouser bottom you want. The hem has to pass over your foot, so if you want it very narrow, ask for slits or measure a pair that slips on comfortably. The rise matters more in a fitted trouser than in a shalwar; our trouser fit guide shows how to measure it.
How to ask for it
Choose “Cigarette” under trouser style on the stitching quote form. In the notes, add your thigh and trouser bottom, whether you want slits and how they’re finished, and the waistband you prefer.
Common questions
Are cigarette pants comfortable for sitting on the floor?
Less so than a shalwar or palazzo, because they fit closely. If you often sit on the floor, ask for a little more room at the thigh, or choose straight trousers.
Can cigarette pants be made from lawn?
Yes, but thin lawn can strain at the seat and knee. A heavier lawn, cambric or cotton holds the slim line better.
Last reviewed 30 September 2026.
