Khakis have a pretty bad reputation in the fashion world. The very word likely evokes bad memories of school uniforms, unpleasant retail jobs and the style faux-pas of one too many election seasons. The tan-colored trousers, however, deserve a second chance. They can be a preppy and polished alternative to your standard jeans, and they work well for both casual and professional settings. Khaki pants are versatile enough to complete a wide variety of looks when paired with the right pieces.

Try a more fashionable spin on the classic garb by putting together a scholarly, geek-chic look. Start with a pair that has a relaxed fit but is slim enough to keep from looking frumpy, like Gap’s Broken-In Straight Khakis ($49.95). Add a fitted, button-down shirt layered with fit with a girly, 1950s-inspired high ponytail and red lipstick. Because the khakis are much more tidy than denim, this look will suit you from your morning classes through your afternoon internship.

A more traditional flare-cut pant, such as American Eagle’s Artist Pant ($39.95) lends itself well to a night-out ensemble. Wear a fun, dramatic jacket in a slim fit to balance out the flare, such as a jewel-toned moto jacket or sparkly blazer. Forever 21’s Sequined Lapel Blazer ($32.80) would pair well with the flare khakis. Be sure to add statement heels or boots to elongate the flared leg. Accessories like bedazzling bracelets or earrings add some extra glamour.

Alternately, the flared khakis can be more retro-casual if paired with a denim button-down, chunky, cork heels or wedges and a pop of color in the form of a headband or bandana. A red-and-white polka dot headband like ModCloth’s Through the Wire Headband ($13.99) would add a retro-cool vibe. The outfit would work even better with khakis than jeans be- cause you won’t risk wearing too much denim.

Skinny jean and jegging fans can expand their pant repertoires with a straight, stretch khaki, such as the Straight Pants from Uniqlo ($29.90). These pants are fitted enough to contrast well with any graphic tee or band tee you have left over from summer, even a loose one. Make it cold-weather appropriate with some heavy duty, punk rock boots like the Studded Lace-Up Combat Boot from Charlotte Russe ($42.50) to offset the typically straight-laced nature of the khaki pants.

For a classic look, try a simple black long-sleeved or three-quarter-sleeved scoop or boatneck shirt with the stretch pants. Add some visual interest with a trendy collar necklace like the Chain Pearl Peter Pan Necklace from PacSun ($12.50). Finish the outfit with black ballet flats and rose petal-pink lipstick.

You don’t need to get political to pull off this conservative trend. All it takes is paying attention to what fits and avoiding beige or white tops to prevent a washed-out look. Aside from that, have fun with khakis, and try working them into your regular wardrobe as a great denim alternative.