Hardly a day goes by that we’re not asked, “What should I do? Cuffs or plain bottoms?”
We kind of think that a man can choose these details himself, based on his own personal preferences and tastes. But when someone asks, we have to answer; and when we answer, we want our answer to be helpful, well thought-out, and practical. We do not know who made up the pseudo-rule that says “Cuffs With Pleats, Plain Bottoms With Plain Fronts,” but like so many old saws we hear in the retail world, it’s just stupid. What relationship is there between pleats and cuffs? Why the rule is relevant today, when pleats are going the way of the 4-inch lapel is anybody’s guess.
So we answer with a question: “Will you be wearing these trousers with a sport jacket or a blazer?” That is, are they meant for dress-wear, or for more casual occasions? If they are meant to be part of a tailored outfit, we think they should look tailored, with cuffed bottoms. If they are for more casual occasions, and never to be worn with blazers and so on, then go cuffless by all means.
Or (and here’s the real news) decide for yourself. Sometimes the fabric, the cut, the color, or simply the mood you happen to be in can determine it. Just remember that cuffs are a more traditional touch, and make up your own mind.
For a good overview of this subject, you might want to visit a great blog: http://www.hisstylediary.com/2012/03/29/anatomy-of-the-trousers/ There you’ll find some handy tips and guides like this:
“Joe to go” you can get anywhere in Princeton. But 
Nick Hilton - Reflections 