THE UNIFORM CHRONICLES
By Leslie Watt McArdle
Industry veteran and senior manager of merchandise and product design.
When you think about the hottest fashion trends, you might picture designer runways, celebrity street style, or the latest influencer looks. But if you take a closer look at fashion history, you will see that some of the most iconic trends started in a different place, UNIFORMS! From military gear to rugged workwear, functional clothing has a way of sneaking into mainstream fashion, proving that practicality and style can go hand in hand.
From the battlefields to the runway, the military has long been a source of fashion inspiration. What started as practical gear designed for soldiers has found its way into everyday wardrobes, often with little change to its original design.
The Bomber jacket originally issued to military pilots in the early 20th century were designed to keep aviators warm at high altitudes. After World War II, surplus jackets made their way into civilian hands, and by the 1950s, they became a symbol of cool, rebellious style. The trend resurfaced in the 1980s and 2000s, proving that this classic silhouette has serious staying power. Today, brands like Alpha Industries, Saint Laurent, and Balenciaga continue to reimagine the bomber jacket, making it a staple in streetwear and high fashion alike.
Camouflage was designed for one thing: concealment. But in the 1960s, during the anti-war movement, it became a statement piece in fashion. What started as a symbol of protest soon became a streetwear essential, embraced by everyone from skaters to luxury designers. Today, camo prints appear on everything from cargo pants to handbags, proving that sometimes, blending in is the best way to stand out.
Combat boots post-war surplus meant they were widely available, and it did not take long for them to become a staple in alternative fashion. The punk and grunge movements of the 1970s and 1990s embraced combat boots, with brands like Dr. Martens leading the charge. Today, high-end designers such as Prada and Balenciaga have reinterpreted them for the runway, proving that a sturdy, rugged boot will never go out of style.
Cargo pockets were originally developed for military uniforms, they were all about practicality, storing tools, maps, and other essentials. These oversized pockets later made their way into workwear, especially for construction and outdoor jobs. Then came the 1990s, when cargo pants became an essential part of streetwear. Their loose fit and utilitarian look made them an instant hit, and today, they continue to be reimagined in everything from techwear to luxury fashion.
Denim has one of the most interesting evolutions in fashion. Created by Levi Strauss in the 1870s for miners and laborers, jeans were designed to be tough and long-lasting. Fast forward to the 1950s, and jeans became a symbol of rebellion, thanks to icons like James Dean. Today, denim is everywhere, from ripped skinny jeans to high-fashion denim-on-denim looks.
Work jackets and Flannel shirts worn by laborers for warmth and protection, work jackets found their way into mainstream fashion when brands like Dickies and Carhartt became favorites inskate, hip-hop, and streetwear scenes. Their tough, durable materials made them perfect for everyday wear. Similarly, flannel shirts, once a necessity for loggers, farmers, and outdoor workers, became an iconic fashion statement, worn by grunge musicians in the ‘90s and still a staple in casual wardrobes today.
Uniforms may have started as strictly functional clothing, but they have proven time and time again that practicality can be stylish. Whether it is a bomber jacket, a pair of combat boots, or a classic denim look, these pieces continue to shape fashion trends and influence designers. So, the next time you pull on a pair of cargo pants or a flannel shirt, remember, you are not just wearing an outfit; you are wearing a piece of history.
