Military-inspired apparel is among the hottest fashion trends among fashion-forward individuals and mega fashion brands. However, this is not the first time reinventions of regimen-style clothing are making their way into non-military personnel wardrobes. One historical account traces the relationship between military-issued garments and the fashion industry to World War I.
Military style clothing is popular among the masses because it fits diverse silhouettes and merges functionality and comfort. Additionally, the versatility embodied in military clothing makes the shift from an edgy day look to polished workwear seamless.
Below is an overview of timeless military fashion pieces and how to pull them off for every occasion.
On this page
1. The Bomber Jacket (Flight Jacket)
The bomber jacket enjoys an iconic status in fashion realms across the globe. Also known as the fighter jacket, the military first issued bomber jackets to pilots in 1931 to pilots flying open-cockpit air vessels to protect them from frigid weather. It features a woolen lining and ribbing along the waistline, cuffs, and neck to protect the wearer from biting cold.
However, while the cold weather bomber jacket still exists , a lightweight reinvention of the iconic jacket is available. The lightweight version retains the signature ribbing on a bomber jacket but is more breathable. Therefore, you can wear it with the zipper open and pair it with a crewneck shirt or a white Tee for a more casual dapper adaptation, ideal for a laid-back night out.
On the other hand, ladies who are into military-style fashion or military clothing can style the bomber jacket alongside a fitting T-shirt, a crop top, or a bralette with denim, cargo pants, or relaxed pants as savvy streetwear.
2. Crewneck T-shirts and Sweaters
The crewneck shirt first emerged in 1913 as an undershirt issued to US Navy officers primarily to cover chest hair. Crewnecks are classic fashion staples featuring a ribbed round neck.
Although crewneck shirts were originally exclusively white, they are now the most versatile clothing items today and come in all color shades, prints, patterns, and graphics. Moreover, they are wardrobe staples for all genders.
While crewneck shirts are fashionable on their own, they are among the wardrobe staples that facilitate layering. Also, the crewneck shirt inspired the creation of other fashion staples, including raglan wear and the crewneck sweater.
You can pair a crewneck sweater with a collared shirt for a more polished, formal look ideal for a formal workplace.
3. Chino Pants
Chino pants are a significant part of military history because their advent marked a shift in battle tactics, from open-field fighting to camouflage and guerilla tactics. From humble beginnings in China, Chino pants made it to the closes of the Elite Americans and are a significant part of the popular preppy ensemble. Chino pants are effortlessly chic and are ideal for dressing up while maintaining casual charm.
Men and women can style these classic military-inspired pants with striped button-down shirts, a crewneck sweater and brogues, just to name a few options. Chinos work exceptionally well for a transformative day-to-night look for both genders.
Pea/Naval coats and duffle coats are among the military-issued clothing that made it into the mainstream fashion industry to keep fashion-forward individuals looking flashy in drabby weather. The coats originate from slightly different military backgrounds, with the pea coat originating from the Dutch and the Duffle coat from Britain.
However, the two military-inspired winter coats have major similarities. For starters, both coats have naval history, given that they were the preserve of naval officers. Second, they feature woolen fabric, ideal for naval duties because, unlike other fabrics, wool repels water.
On the other hand, pea coats feature a signature double-breasted design and a wide lapel collar. In contrast, duffle coats feature toggle closures rather than buttons, making it easier for naval officers to close the coats while wearing naval gloves. Also, duffle coats are longer than pea coats to help keep pants dry and feature a hood.
Nonetheless, both military-inspired coats are fashionable in winter and the crowing piece for winter layers. They are available in diverse colors to suit consumer preferences.
5. Combat Boots
Combat boots are iconic footwear featuring thick, rugged soles, lace-up closure, and an overall rugged look. Essentially, footwear punctuates an outfit, and some more reserved dressers may shy away from military or combat boots. However, the iconic shoe style is the perfect accessory to punctuate any outfit and level up your style game.
The boots match most wardrobe staples for both genders, including denim, relaxed pants, dresses, skirts, and shorts; the options are limitless. Moreover, the color palate for military boots currently extends beyond the classic black, tan, and camo options. Also, combat boots are the inspiration behind numerous thick-soled boots.
Besides being fashion statement footwear, combat boots are comfortable, durable, and affordable for most budgets. Combine their style appeal with functionality and affordability, and you have a winner.
Conclusion:
Military-inspired clothing may seem intimidating at a glance, but such ensembles are comfortable, versatile, and worthy of space in your wardrobe. You can combine these versatile military clothings to shine on every occasion.
